Best Swimming Spots in Cork

Cork. The Rebel County. The real capital of Ireland… or so its inhabitants like to say. But we’re not going to debate that one way or the other right now. What there can be no arguing about though is that Cork is one of the best and friendliest places to visit in Ireland. With plenty to see and do, you will never feel bored or wonder where your next hit of excitement will come from.

It’s always advisable to plan before you go and if you’re a water baby, whether it’s pool swimming or sea swimming that takes your fancy, you will want to know about the best swimming places in Cork in advance.

Sea Swimming in Cork

Nohoval Cove

Nohoval Cove

Source: Flickr

Nohoval Cove is one of Cork’s best kept secrets. The small inlet located around 10 kilometres away from the gorgeous town of Kinsale is a little slice of paradise. The Cove is particularly popular amongst divers and kayakers but is also one of the best places for sea swimming in Cork.

The towering sea stacks and blue waters transport you to another world, but the true beauty of Nohoval comes out at sunrise. If early morning swims are your thing, this is the place for you.

Claycastle Beach, Youghal

Claycastle Beach

Source: Geograph

Youghal has always been a popular seaside town with holidaymakers and it’s no wonder looking at Claycastle Beach.

The beach is within walking distance of Youghal Town and is easily accessible by steps and a ramp. There is also a car park nearby as well as public toilets. Even better, there are lifeguards on duty during the bathing season so you can swim worry-free with the knowledge you are in safe hands.

The beach is located about 45 minutes by car from the city centre or alternatively 53 minutes by bus.

Inchydoney Beach, Clonakilty

Inchydoney Beach

Source: Flickr

Almost an hour’s drive from Cork city centre, Inchydoney may seem like a long trip but it is most certainly worth it. Located adjacent to the bustling town of Clonakilty, Inchydoney is popular amongst holidaymakers, surfers and sea swimmers alike.

With Inchydoney you get your choice of two beaches, or the near beach and the far beach as locals like to say. Inchydoney’s soft sands and clear blue waters result in it being regularly voted among Ireland’s best beaches. It boasts a number of amenities including parking, public toilets and on-duty lifeguards.

A trip to Inchydoney never fails to impress!

Pool Swimming in Cork

Club Vitae Maldron Hotel Shandon Cork City

Club Vitae Maldron Hotel Shandon

Source: Club Vitae Facebook Page

Maldron Hotel Shandon Cork City is a great place for a swim. Ideally located in the city centre, it offers high quality facilities so there’s no need to spend time travelling to various locations. Our Club Vitae leisure centre has long opening hours, friendly and helpful staff and a gym designed to cater for all your training needs.

The pool is heated and 20 metres in length, making it ideal to do your daily swimming laps. There is also a separate children’s pool for the smaller ones to splash around in. And after you’ve finished your swim, you have a choice of winding down in either the sauna, steam room or Jacuzzi… or better yet, all three!

Our family-friendly swimming pool offers children’s swimming lessons from ages 4 and up and accepts Pay as You Go visitors, costing €13 per adult and €7 per child.

Where to stay in Cork for your next swim trip

Planning your swimming trips can take time. Deciding on where to stay is even more difficult. You need somewhere centrally located and somewhere with great amenities that can cater to your requirements no matter what they are. Thankfully, this is one thing you don’t need to think any harder about.

Our hotel in Cork city centre is ideal to cater to your every need. It’s a recently refurbished four-star hotel with the above-mentioned Club Vitae. But that’s not all. The hotel also offers the Grain & Grill restaurant, a kids club and even meeting rooms to take care of business requirements. Plus, Opera Lane, Cork’s main shopping street, is located only a few minutes walk from the hotel as well as a rich selection of bars, restaurants and other attractions.

Check out our hotel rooms in Cork today!

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