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

Ross strand is a sandy beach located along the shoreline of Killala Bay. It has an extensive triangular estuary with mudflats lining the sides of the channel. Habitats include an extensive triangular estuary with mudflats, saltmarshes and sand dunes. These habitats support a wide variety of vegetation and wildlife species. Ross Beach forms part of the 004036 Killala Bay/Moy Estuary (SPA) & 000458 Killala Bay/Moy Estuary (SAC) Killala Bay is a designated Class A and B Shellfish Production Area. Activities include surfing, canoeing and anglers. The bathing area is approximately 0.30km wide. The bathing water is approximately 0.60km2 in area. The medium and maximum water depth within the designated bathing water is 0.5m and 4.0m respectively depending on the tides.