Old Head Beach, Louisburgh
Westport-Belmullet Municipal District, Ireland — Excellent water quality
Old Head Beach is located 34.29 km from County Mayo along the Irish coastline. The beach holds a Blue Flag award, which means it meets strict standards for water quality, environmental management, and safety. It's open during its designated season, and swimmers should take appropriate…
Quick Overview
Plan Your Visit to Old Head Beach, Louisburgh
The key facts before you go
About the Beach
What is Old Head Beach, Louisburgh?
Old Head Beach is located 34.29 km from County Mayo along the Irish coastline. The beach holds a Blue Flag award, which means it meets strict standards for water quality, environmental management, and safety. It's open during its designated season, and swimmers should take appropriate precautions in the water. Drinking water is available on-site.
The best time to visit is May, June, or September. July and August are the busiest months. If you're looking for a clean, well-maintained beach in Ireland, Old Head Beach is a solid choice.
It sits alongside certified beaches along Westport-Belmullet Municipal District, part of a broader network of certified beaches throughout Ireland certified annually by the Foundation for Environmental Education.
Sunrise, Sunset & Beach Direction
Old Head Beach, Louisburgh faces W toward Atlantic Ocean. The best light for photography and swimming is typically in May, June, September. The beach's orientation determines when it catches direct sun — plan your visit around this to make the most of your time there.
Planning
When to Go — Month by Month
| Month | Air Temp | Water Temp | Crowds |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 7°C | 4°C | Low |
| Feb | 7°C | 4°C | Low |
| Mar | 8°C | 5°C | Low |
| Apr | 9°C | 6°C | Low |
| May | 12°C | 9°C | Med |
| Jun | 14°C | 11°C | Med |
| Jul | 15°C | 12°C | High |
| Aug | 15°C | 12°C | High |
| Sep | 14°C | 11°C | Med |
| Oct | 12°C | 9°C | Low |
| Nov | 9°C | 6°C | Low |
| Dec | 8°C | 5°C | Low |
The best time to visit Old Head Beach, Louisburgh is May, June, September. Air temperatures peak around 15°C in summer. Peak water temperature reaches 12°C in July.
How crowded does Old Head Beach, Louisburgh get?Like most Blue Flag beaches in Ireland, Old Head Beach, Louisburgh sees its highest visitor numbers in July and August. The beach maintains a pleasant atmosphere even in peak season.
Is Old Head Beach, Louisburgh open year-round?The beach itself is accessible year-round, though staffed facilities including lifeguards typically operate only during the official season (typically July–September). The Blue Flag is displayed during the certification period only.
The Water
Swimming and Beach Life at Old Head Beach, Louisburgh
Is Old Head Beach, Louisburgh safe to swim?Old Head Beach, Louisburgh is Blue Flag certified, which requires meeting strict bathing water standards set by the EU Bathing Water Directive. Water quality is rated <span class="inline-stat">Excellent</span>. The beach does not have lifeguards stationed on the beach — swim with appropriate caution.
What is the water temperature at Old Head Beach, Louisburgh?Peak water temperature at Old Head Beach, Louisburgh reaches around <span class="inline-stat">12°C</span> in July, making it comfortable for swimming during the summer months. In winter (January), air temperatures average 7.3°C.
What is the beach like at Old Head Beach, Louisburgh?Old Head Beach, Louisburgh on the Westport-Belmullet Municipal District coast of Ireland. The best time to visit is May, June, or September. July and August are the busiest months. If you're looking for a clean, well-maintained beach in Ireland, Old Head Beach is a solid choice.
Does Old Head Beach, Louisburgh have good facilities?As a Blue Flag certified beach, Old Head Beach, Louisburgh meets the Foundation for Environmental Education's standards for facilities and services. Parking is available nearby.
Old Head Beach, Louisburgh sits on the Atlantic Ocean — explore all Blue Flag beaches on the Atlantic.
Transport
Getting to Old Head Beach, Louisburgh
How do I get to Old Head Beach, Louisburgh by car?Old Head Beach, Louisburgh is approximately 34.29 km from County Mayo. Follow local road signs to the beach. Check Google Maps or a local map for the most current directions.
What is the nearest airport to Old Head Beach, Louisburgh?The nearest airport is Belmullet Aerodrome (BLY) (BLY), approximately 52.4 km away.
Can I get to Old Head Beach, Louisburgh by public transport?Public transport options vary by season. Check local transport authority websites for current bus and train schedules connecting to County Mayo.
Practical Details
Practical Information
| At the Beach | |
| Entry | Free — no charge to access the beach |
|---|---|
| Lifeguards | ✗ |
| Disabled Access | Contact local authority for details |
| Showers | ✗ |
| Toilets | ✗ |
| Beach Type | Coastal beach |
| Visiting Information | |
| GPS Coordinates | 53.7767°N, 9.7707°W |
| Water Quality | Excellent (EU Bathing Water Directive) |
| Blue Flag Operator | Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) — Ireland |
Frequently Asked Questions
Old Head Beach, Louisburgh FAQ
Is Old Head Beach, Louisburgh suitable for children?
Old Head Beach, Louisburgh is a Blue Flag certified beach in Westport-Belmullet Municipal District, Ireland. The EU Excellent water quality rating means the water is safe and clean for all swimmers, including children. Blue Flag certification itself requires meeting strict environmental and safety standards that benefit all beach users.
Is Old Head Beach, Louisburgh free to access?
Yes, access to Old Head Beach, Louisburgh is free — there are no entry fees or charges to use the beach. Parking is available nearby; check local signs for any parking charges. Facilities including beach amenities are typically available during the official season at no charge. The beach is managed by local authorities under the Blue Flag programme.
When is the best time to visit Old Head Beach, Louisburgh?
The best time to visit Old Head Beach, Louisburgh is May, June, September. Water temperature peaks at around 12°C in July, which is ideal for swimming. Air temperatures reach 15°C in summer. If you prefer quieter conditions, visiting in June or September gives you warm weather with fewer crowds than the July–August peak. The Blue Flag is displayed during the certified season, confirming the beach meets all water quality and safety standards.
What is the water quality at Old Head Beach, Louisburgh?
Old Head Beach, Louisburgh is Blue Flag certified, which requires meeting strict annual water quality standards set by the EU Bathing Water Directive. Water quality is currently rated Excellent. Blue Flag certification is awarded by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) and requires independent water quality monitoring throughout the season. The results are publicly available from the European Environment Agency.
How do I get to Old Head Beach, Louisburgh?
Old Head Beach, Louisburgh is located in Westport-Belmullet Municipal District, Ireland. It is approximately 34.29 km from County Mayo. The nearest airport is Belmullet Aerodrome (BLY) (BLY), 52.4 km away. Parking is available at or near the beach. Check local transport authority websites for current public transport schedules. A car is the most flexible option for reaching the beach, particularly outside peak season.
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