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Beaches & Water Quality

Beach information, bathing-water quality, coastal conditions, environmental monitoring and practical updates for communities and visitors around Ireland.

IRELAND NEWSPAPERIndependent editorial desk
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CORK • NON-IDENTIFIED BEACH

Sandycove

Cork County Council

Not classified
SWIMMING STATUS TODAY

No active EPA restriction shown

EPA alert data last synced 24 Aug 2026, 03:20.

NO ACTIVE ALERT SHOWN
Can I swim here?No active EPA restriction shownCurrent EPA alert/restriction status
Current restrictionNone shown in current EPA alertsThis is not a guarantee of swimming conditions. Always check local signs, lifeguard instructions and the latest official advice at the beach.
Latest sampleExcellentIndividual sample result only
Last tested17 Aug 2026Latest sample stored from EPA

Current restrictions and beach signage take priority over annual classifications and individual sample results. Conditions can change between samples.

Annual EPA classificationNot classifiedLonger-term annual classification
Latest available sampleExcellent17 Aug 2026
E. coli110Latest sample result
Intestinal enterococci12Latest sample result
Next monitoringEPA schedule where available
Short-term pollution riskEPA location profile field

Annual water quality history

Recent water samples

DateSample statusE. coliIntestinal enterococci
17 Aug 2026Excellent11012
20 Jul 2026Excellent3117
22 Jun 2026Excellent106
25 May 2026Excellent<10<1

Facilities & access

Blue FlagNo
Green CoastNo
LifeguardNo
First aidNo
LifebuoyYes
ToiletsNo
ParkingYes
AccessibleNo
Beach wheelchairNo
Public transportNo
Information boardNo
Litter binYes
RecyclingNo
Natural sensitive areaNo

About this bathing water

"Sandycove, 5km from Kinsale town centre is one of the towns most beloved coastal gems, drawing stand‑up paddleboarders, kayakers, and sea swimmers to its beautifully sheltered bay. The calm waters, protected by the nearby island, create ideal conditions for relaxed paddling and leisurely swims when tides and weather allow.As the tide recedes, the beach transforms—revealing a charming mix of sandy stretches and rocky outcrops dotted with rock pools, perfect for curious explorers of all ages.Framed by rolling green hills, Sandycoves unspoiled character offers a peaceful natural escape. Sandycove is ideally located close to several popular Kinsale highlights:Charles Fort- One of Ireland’s finest star-shaped forts, offering stunning harbour views and a fascinating look into the area’s military history.James Fort- A beautiful historic fortification opposite Charles Fort, perfect for a scenic walk with panoramic views of Kinsale Harbour."