Dunmore East: Lighthouse, Coastal Walk and Coast

Dunmore East combines sheltered coves and a harbour with striking cliffs, a distinctive lighthouse and a variety of water-based activities. At Counsellors’ Strand, the beach lies in a small, sheltered cove. Swimming and underwater activities such as snorkelling are possible in sheltered coves there. During the bathing season, from June to the end of August, the beach is patrolled by lifeguards.

Discover the Coast and Cliffs on Foot

The Dunmore Coastal Walk offers a different perspective on the coast. Red sandstone cliffs shape the landscape along the route, with views of a variety of birdlife along the way. Species that can be spotted there include kittiwakes, fulmars, choughs, cormorants and shags. Seals can also occasionally be seen. Nature watching is the focus of this excursion, while the beach offers more of a water-based experience.

The coastal walk starts at the car park at Dunmore East harbour. There is no parking at Portally Cove or Rathmoylan Cove along the route. Do not walk the Dunmore Coastal Walk in windy or foggy weather. Keep these points in mind when planning your day if you are considering a walk along the cliff-lined coast.

Water Activities and Sailing

Dunmore Adventure offers activities in the Wibit Wipeout Water Park, as well as stand-up paddleboarding and sailing. The activities also include indoor climbing, adventure caving and archery. The options range from water-based activities to experiences on land. Dunmore Adventure has changing rooms and hot showers, and its café overlooks the water activities.

For those who want to explore sailing in more depth, Dunmore Adventure’s Sailing Academy offers a pathway from beginner to advanced sailing. The programme also prepares participants for a career in watersports. Another option is a trip on a skippered sailing yacht, offered by South Coast Sailing from Dunmore East harbour. Dunmore East Adventure Centre also offers, among other things, sea safari tours to Hook Head Lighthouse. Sailing events and regattas are also frequently held in Dunmore East, where spectators can watch colourful boats race.

Lighthouse, Festivals and Golf

The Dunmore East lighthouse is a distinctive landmark in the harbour area. Alexander Nimmo designed it as a fluted Doric column with a lantern on its capital. Its architecture makes the lighthouse a striking sight for visitors interested in buildings and local history.

The events calendar also offers a range of highlights: the Dunmore East Walking Festival takes place in May and includes guided cliff and woodland walks. In August, the Dunmore East Bluegrass Festival celebrates the roots of country and bluegrass music. These events can appeal to different travel interests, whether your holiday is focused on activity, music or the coast.

Dunmore East Golf Club offers an 18-hole, par-72 coastal course with views of the village. The course brings together two different settings: nine holes lie along the cliff edge overlooking the coast, while the other nine are set among trees and dense vegetation. If you are looking for a holiday rental in Dunmore East, coastal walks, watersports, culture or golf can help shape your stay.

Discover more places: Waterford, Ringville, Tramore, Lismore, Rathgormack, Harrylock, Dungarvan and Cappoquin.

Return to the main travel overview: Waterford.