Laytown/Bettystown is classified as achieving Excellent Water Quality in 2025 based on the assessment of bacteriological results for the period 2022 to 2025. Laytown/Bettystown has achieved an Excellent Water Quality rating for the four consecutive years 2022 to 2025. Annual water quality ratings are generally calculated using monitoring results over a four-year period and are assessed against stringent bacterial limits to protect bather health.

Laytown/Bettystown is a fine sand beach backing onto sand dunes. There is a links golf course located in the sand dunes. The Boyne Coast and Estuary is a designated Special Area of Conservation (SAC site code 001957) located to the north. To the south, the River Nanny Estuary and Shore is a designated Special Protected Area (SPA site code 004158). Activities on the beach include sandsculpting and kitesurfing. Laytown/Bettystown has hosted the National Sand Sculpting and Sandcastle Competition in recent years. Laytown Strand Race is a horse racing event which takes place annually on Laytown strand. The bathing area is approximately 1.5 km in length and 0.6 km2 in area.