Redbarn Beach
The Municipal District of East Cork, Ireland — Excellent water quality
Redbarn Beach is located in the Municipal District of East Cork, Ireland, about 49 km from Cork city. The beach holds Blue Flag certification, awarded annually by the Foundation for Environmental Education for meeting international standards in water quality, safety, and environmental management.
Quick Overview
Plan Your Visit to Redbarn Beach
The key facts before you go
About the Beach
What is Redbarn Beach?
Redbarn Beach is located in the Municipal District of East Cork, Ireland, about 49 km from Cork city. The beach holds Blue Flag certification, awarded annually by the Foundation for Environmental Education for meeting international standards in water quality, safety, and environmental management.
The beach is open during its designated season. Drinking water is available on-site. Swimmers should take appropriate precautions in the water.
May, June, and September offer the best conditions for a visit. July and August are the busiest months. Plan accordingly if you prefer quieter conditions.
It sits alongside Blue Flag beaches in The Municipal District of East Cork, part of a broader network of Blue Flag certified beaches across Ireland certified annually by the Foundation for Environmental Education.
Sunrise, Sunset & Beach Direction
Redbarn Beach faces S 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 | 7°C | 4°C | Low |
| Apr | 9°C | 6°C | Low |
| May | 12°C | 9°C | Med |
| Jun | 14°C | 11°C | Med |
| Jul | 16°C | 13°C | High |
| Aug | 16°C | 13°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 Redbarn Beach is May, June, September. Air temperatures peak around 16.3°C in summer. Peak water temperature reaches 13.3°C in July.
How crowded does Redbarn Beach get?Like most Blue Flag beaches in Ireland, Redbarn Beach sees its highest visitor numbers in July and August. The beach maintains a pleasant atmosphere even in peak season.
Is Redbarn Beach 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 Redbarn Beach
Is Redbarn Beach safe to swim?Redbarn Beach 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 Redbarn Beach?Peak water temperature at Redbarn Beach reaches around <span class="inline-stat">13.3°C</span> in July, making it comfortable for swimming during the summer months. In winter (January), air temperatures average 6.9°C.
What is the beach like at Redbarn Beach?Redbarn Beach on the The Municipal District of East Cork coast of Ireland. The beach is open during its designated season. Drinking water is available on-site. Swimmers should take appropriate precautions in the water.
Does Redbarn Beach have good facilities?As a Blue Flag certified beach, Redbarn Beach meets the Foundation for Environmental Education's standards for facilities and services.
Redbarn Beach sits on the Atlantic Ocean — explore all Blue Flag beaches on the Atlantic.
Transport
Getting to Redbarn Beach
How do I get to Redbarn Beach by car?Redbarn Beach is approximately 48.87 km from County Cork. 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 Redbarn Beach?The nearest airport is Cork Airport (ORK) (ORK), approximately 43.4 km away.
Can I get to Redbarn Beach by public transport?Public transport options vary by season. Check local transport authority websites for current bus and train schedules connecting to County Cork.
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 | 51.9243°N, 7.8734°W |
| Water Quality | Excellent (EU Bathing Water Directive) |
| Blue Flag Operator | Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) — Ireland |
Frequently Asked Questions
Redbarn Beach FAQ
Is Redbarn Beach suitable for children?
Redbarn Beach is a Blue Flag certified beach in The Municipal District of East Cork, 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 Redbarn Beach free to access?
Yes, access to Redbarn Beach is free — there are no entry fees or charges to use the beach. 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 Redbarn Beach?
The best time to visit Redbarn Beach is May, June, September. Water temperature peaks at around 13.3°C in July, which is ideal for swimming. Air temperatures reach 16.3°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 Redbarn Beach?
Redbarn Beach 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 Redbarn Beach?
Redbarn Beach is located in The Municipal District of East Cork, Ireland. It is approximately 48.87 km from County Cork. The nearest airport is Cork Airport (ORK) (ORK), 43.4 km away. 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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