Bunmahon – Sandy Beach, Cliffs and Geology

Bunmahon combines a long sandy beach with striking rock formations and insights into the history of the Earth. Bunmahon Beach stretches for 2.5 km and is in County Waterford. At Bunmahon Head, the rock layers are tilted to a vertical position: Devonian red sandstone and conglomerate form impressive cliffs there.

Beach and Coastal Landscape

The 2.5 km sandy beach offers a practical guide for planning your day: you can choose Bunmahon Beach for a day at the beach or get to know the coastal landscape through its geological features. The beach is used for surfing, canoeing and kayaking. The beach area borders a Natural Heritage Area (NHA), another distinctive feature of the landscape.

The rocks also tell the story of the coast’s use and history. At Tra na mBo and Bunmahon Head, small tunnels cut into the rocks are visible as evidence of the area’s mining heritage. Together with the steeply inclined layers at Bunmahon Head, they offer a different perspective on the coast than a simple beach visit: both the geological formations and traces of human labour take centre stage.

Walks and Experiences at the Headland

A cliff path leads from Bunmahon to Tra na mBo and Bunmahon Head. There is an uphill path on the headland, as well as a path leading down into the bay, supported by a handrail system. These two routes offer different ways to experience the coastal landscape. If you are planning your stay with children, you can decide together whether a view of the cliffs or the route down into the bay is better suited to your outing.

Discovering Geology

A free, family-friendly exhibition at the Copper Coast UNESCO Global Geopark visitor centre explains the area’s geological and mining heritage. Interactive exhibits also show how earthquakes occur and are measured. The centre offers a different way to engage with the landscape than looking at the rocks themselves: here, the focus is on the connections and processes behind the visible formations. There is also a café at the visitor centre. Guided tours of the Copper Coast UNESCO Global Geopark can be booked via the website.

The Time Path in the Geological Garden offers another way to explore the history of the Earth. Its 28 specially designed slabs illustrate geological eras, key developments in the history of the Earth and the evolution of life. Rather than looking at individual rock formations, you can follow the development of life and the Earth through a sequence of exhibits. The visitor centre’s gift shop sells locally sourced products from small businesses and craftspeople.

Which Accommodation Suits Your Trip?

A holiday apartment in Bunmahon is an option for travellers planning to stay in the town.

Discover More Destinations

For further travel inspiration, you can also visit the pages for Dunmore East, Ringville, Ballymacarbry, Waterford, Cappoquin, Lismore, Rathgormack and Aird Mhór.

For the broader travel overview: Waterford.