Binnagorm Beach

Binnagorm Beach, also known as the Lucky Shell beach or Monks beach, is a small quiet beach located in the heart of Ards Forest Park, Donegal.

Find incredible views on your way to the beach.

You can get there from three different Ards Forest Park trails through the forest; the most accessible walk is around 25 minutes, starting from the Ards Friary parking. When you park in the car park, go towards the Friary building, and you will find stairs descending on your right. Take the stairs and go through the metal gates. The tarmac road is the start of the walk. You will pass a small beach on your way, continue forward, and the road will turn from tarmac to gravel. Moving 10-15 minutes through the gravel path will give you a fantastic seaside view with a bench. Looking on north from the bench view will reveal Binnagorm Beach. Keep moving on the gravel path till you reach the beach. 

Being in the middle of Forest Park might make it difficult for people with disabilities. The path is excellent to the bench view, but you must go through a single forest trail (20-30 meters long) to get to the beach.

Relax and enjoy the sounds of the waves.

Most of the year, it is a quiet beach, so you can sit and enjoy the wild Atlantic ocean waves, colours, and the forest right next to the beach. However, tourists might come from Downings, a beach opposite the Licky Shell beach, in summer.

Continue exploring the Ards Forest Park trails and beaches.

Being in the heart of the Ards Forest Park, you have many possibilities to continue your adventure to one of the other trails of the pack and explore nature or the other beaches in the park.

Pictures by Elena T.

Tips for visitors:

1. Take your time on the way to the beach: The journey to Binnagorm Beach is just as beautiful as the beach itself. Enjoy the incredible views along the forest trails and take it all in.

1. Prepare for the trail: The trail to Binnagorm Beach is not suitable for people with disabilities due to a single forest trail that must be crossed. Wear comfortable shoes and bring a bottle of water to keep hydrated during the walk.

1. When visiting Binnagorm Beach and exploring the surrounding trails in Ards Forest Park, it's essential to be aware of ticks. These tiny insects can carry diseases, so it's a good idea to wear long pants, tuck your pants into your socks, and use insect repellent to help prevent tick bites. Also, check yourself and your pets for ticks after you visit the park.

1. Enjoy the tranquility: Binnagorm Beach is a quiet and peaceful spot, perfect for relaxation. Sit back and listen to the sound of the waves crashing against the shore.

1. Explore more of the Ards Forest Park: Binnagorm Beach is located in the heart of Ards Forest Park, so take advantage of the opportunity to explore more of the park's trails and beaches. You never know what hidden gems you might discover!

1. Capture memories: Don't forget to bring your camera or phone and capture memories of the stunning scenery. Binnagorm Beach offers incredible photo opportunities that you won't want to miss.