About Kilkee

Kilkee is situated in County Clare on the West Coast of Ireland. The old Irish name for the long triangular peninsula stretching to Loop Head and forming the northern boundary of the estuary of the River Shannon is 'Corca Baiscinn'. About mid-way on the Atlantic shore on this peninsula is Kilkee. It is situated on Moore Bay, a bay of horse-show shape. The splendid reef known as Duggerna Rocks guards the entrance to this bay.

Development as a Tourist Resort

From the 18th Century Kilkee began to develop as a tourist resort. One of the main reasons for the growing popularity of the area was its climate. It is one of the most westerly seaside resorts in Europe. Across the broad expense of the Atlantic Ocean comes the west wind, warmed by the Gulf Stream. The former gives the resort its bracing, healthy character, the latter its mild and equable climate.

The resort itself developed along a semi-circular strand, nearly one mile in length, with a good stretch of sands between the promenade and the sea. It has long been recognised as the best and safest bathing place on the western coast and although it is exposed to the full force of the Atlantic, the town, is protected on the westward side by the long rocky Duggerna Reef.

Kilkee today continues to attract a large number of visitors. Though situated on the extreme westerly seaboard, it is easily accessible by road and air. 48Km directly inland is Shannon Airport, there are bus services linking Kilkee with all important cities and towns of Ireland and roads connect Kilkee with Ennis (56km), Limerick (92km), Galway (123km), Cork (193km) and Dublin (290km).

back to top >>