Keem Beach, nestled on Achill Island along Ireland's Atlantic Coast, has been ranked 14th in Enjoy Travel's list of the world's 50 best beaches. The travel publication highlights the beach's horseshoe-shaped bay, calm waters, and scenic hiking trails as key attractions, calling it "one of Ireland's true hidden gems."
Why Keem Beach Stands Out
According to Enjoy Travel, Keem Beach offers a secluded atmosphere thanks to its horseshoe shape, with rolling green hills providing a stunning backdrop. The calm waters make swimming easily accessible, while surrounding trails offer panoramic views. The beach's location at the westernmost point of Achill Island adds to its remote, edge-of-the-world feel.
The shore features golden sands and turquoise-tinged waters, bordered by striking cliffs. The journey there involves a slender clifftop road with the ocean far below, which is part of the adventure. Despite its beauty, the beach rarely feels overcrowded, as relatively few visitors venture that far.
Wildlife and Nearby Attractions
During summer, Keem Beach is a known hotspot for basking shark and dolphin sightings. Footpaths climb from the shore towards Croaghaun, one of Ireland's tallest sea cliffs, offering breathtaking views back across the bay. The beach is part of the Wild Atlantic Way and fits naturally into a wider Achill Island or Mayo coastal road trip, with nearby attractions including Keel Beach, Minaun Cliffs, and the abandoned village at Slievemore.
Getting There from London
For Londoners, reaching Keem Beach is relatively straightforward. A 1 hour 30 minute flight from Stansted, Luton, or Heathrow to West Knock, followed by a 75-minute drive, is the quickest route. The beach's inclusion in the global top 50 list underscores its appeal as a must-visit destination for beach enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
