Banna Beach is the site where Sir Roger Casement landed in a collapsible boat from a German U-boat in April 1916.
The sand dune system at Banna is one of the most significant coastal dune habitats in County Kerry, protecting rare flora.
The beach spans approximately 10 kilometers, running from Ballyheigue in the north to the channel of Barrow Harbour in the south.
Banna is a Blue Flag beach, denoting high environmental and safety standards.
The beach is officially designated as a Special Area of Conservation (SAC) under the EU Habitats Directive.
Banna Beach is a 10-kilometer stretch of sand located on the Atlantic coast of County Kerry, Ireland. It is recognized as a Special Area of Conservation due to its extensive dune system and biodiversity. The beach is a popular site for surfing, coastal walking, and swimming, with lifeguards stationed during the summer season. It historically served as a landing point for Sir Roger Casement in 1916 during the lead-up to the Easter Rising. The beach is bounded by dunes that rise up to 12 meters in height, protecting the inland area from coastal erosion. The water quality is consistently monitored, maintaining high standards suitable for recreational use. Public amenities include a large car park and a dedicated information point near the entrance. The beach remains open to the public year-round with no vehicular or pedestrian fees.
The crest of the highest sand dune looking back toward the coastline at sunset.
Check local tide tables before visiting to ensure you have enough space for walking, as the tide recedes very far.
Bring wind-resistant layers as the Atlantic breeze can be significantly colder than inland temperatures.
Stick to the marked sandy paths when navigating the dunes to prevent soil erosion and habitat destruction.
Do not attempt to swim in areas marked with red flags, as strong rip currents occur frequently along this coastline.
Keep dogs on a leash during designated summer hours and remove all litter to maintain the coastal habitat.
