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

Inch Strand is an exposed sandy beach, facing due west into Dingle Bay and to the Atlantic Ocean beyond. The sand dune system supports a variety of plant species. There are areas of salt marsh and mudflats which support a variety of bird species. Inch Spit is located within the greater Castlemaine Harbour Special Area of Conservation (Site Code 000343). In accordance with the EU Birds directive parts of Castlemaine Harbour and Dingle Bay are designated Special Protection Areas and also designated shellfish areas. Activities are regulated under the Kerry County Council Beach Bye-Laws, 2013. The full extent of the beach on Inch Spit is approximately 5km in length, however, the identified bathing waters comprise only 1.4km of this.