Kilkee is classified as achieving Excellent Water Quality in 2025 based on the assessment of bacteriological results for the period 2022 to 2025. Kilkee 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.

Kilkee is a crescent shaped beach of brown coloured, poorly sorted sand and it is fairly flat over most of its width. Due to the wave conditions on the beach, not many animals are to be found living in the sand. However there is a small variety of marine wildlife and the rocky shorelines on either side of Kilkee are rich hunting grounds for those interested in exploring rock-pools. Activities include swimming and sailing. Motorised watercraft, surfing and the use of canoes and kayaks is prohibited in close proximity to swimmers. Beach bye-laws are in place with horse riding and dogs prohibited between 11am and 6pm during the summer season.