Shelling Hill/Templetown
Ireland — Excellent water quality
Shelling Hill/Templetown is a Blue Flag beach on Ireland's coast, recognized annually by the Foundation for Environmental Education for its environmental standards and water safety. The beach is open during its designated season, and swimmers should take appropriate precautions. Drinking water is available on-site. May,…
Quick Overview
Plan Your Visit to Shelling Hill/Templetown
The key facts before you go
About the Beach
What is Shelling Hill/Templetown?
Shelling Hill/Templetown is a Blue Flag beach on Ireland's coast, recognized annually by the Foundation for Environmental Education for its environmental standards and water safety. The beach is open during its designated season, and swimmers should take appropriate precautions. Drinking water is available on-site. May, June, and September offer the best conditions for a visit, while July and August see the heaviest crowds. The Blue Flag designation is independently verified each year, a certification that matters to travelers looking for reliable beach quality.
It is part of a wider group of Blue Flag certified beaches across Ireland that meet FEE's annual standards for water quality, safety, and environmental management.
Sunrise, Sunset & Beach Direction
Shelling Hill/Templetown 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 | 6°C | 3°C | Low |
| Feb | 6°C | 3°C | Low |
| Mar | 7°C | 4°C | Low |
| Apr | 8°C | 5°C | Low |
| May | 11°C | 8°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 | 11°C | 8°C | Low |
| Nov | 8°C | 5°C | Low |
| Dec | 6°C | 3°C | Low |
The best time to visit Shelling Hill/Templetown is May, June, September. Air temperatures peak around 15.8°C in summer. Peak water temperature reaches 12.8°C in July.
How crowded does Shelling Hill/Templetown get?Like most Blue Flag beaches in Ireland, Shelling Hill/Templetown sees its highest visitor numbers in July and August. The beach maintains a pleasant atmosphere even in peak season.
Is Shelling Hill/Templetown 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 Shelling Hill/Templetown
Is Shelling Hill/Templetown safe to swim?Shelling Hill/Templetown 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 Shelling Hill/Templetown?Peak water temperature at Shelling Hill/Templetown reaches around <span class="inline-stat">12.8°C</span> in July, making it comfortable for swimming during the summer months. In winter (January), air temperatures average 5.7°C.
What is the beach like at Shelling Hill/Templetown?Shelling Hill/Templetown of Ireland. It meets all Blue Flag criteria for environmental management, water quality, safety, and facilities.
Does Shelling Hill/Templetown have good facilities?As a Blue Flag certified beach, Shelling Hill/Templetown meets the Foundation for Environmental Education's standards for facilities and services.
Shelling Hill/Templetown sits on the Atlantic Ocean — explore all Blue Flag beaches on the Atlantic.
Transport
Getting to Shelling Hill/Templetown
How do I get to Shelling Hill/Templetown by car?Shelling Hill/Templetown is located in Ireland. 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 Shelling Hill/Templetown?The nearest airport is Dublin Airport (DUB) (DUB), approximately 62.6 km away.
Can I get to Shelling Hill/Templetown by public transport?Public transport options vary by season. Check local transport authority websites for current bus and train schedules connecting to Ireland.
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 | 53.9798°N, 6.1529°W |
| Water Quality | Excellent (EU Bathing Water Directive) |
| Blue Flag Operator | Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) — Ireland |
Frequently Asked Questions
Shelling Hill/Templetown FAQ
Is Shelling Hill/Templetown suitable for children?
Shelling Hill/Templetown is a Blue Flag certified beach in 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 Shelling Hill/Templetown free to access?
Yes, access to Shelling Hill/Templetown 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 Shelling Hill/Templetown?
The best time to visit Shelling Hill/Templetown is May, June, September. Water temperature peaks at around 12.8°C in July, which is ideal for swimming. Air temperatures reach 15.8°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 Shelling Hill/Templetown?
Shelling Hill/Templetown 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 Shelling Hill/Templetown?
Shelling Hill/Templetown is located in Ireland. The nearest airport is Dublin Airport (DUB) (DUB), 62.6 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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