Keem Beach on Achill Island, Ireland, has been named the 14th best beach in the world by Enjoy Travel, and it's within day-trip distance of Liverpool.
A Hidden Gem on Ireland's Atlantic Coast
The beach sits in a horseshoe-shaped bay tucked between steep green hills at the very western tip of Achill Island. Golden sand and turquoise water are framed by dramatic cliffs on both sides, giving it a tropical feel despite its location on Ireland's wild Atlantic coast.
Enjoy Travel writes: "Tucked away on Achill Island just off Ireland’s wild Atlantic Coast, the rolling green hills which provide the stunning backdrop to Keem Beach are just one of many reasons to visit this gorgeous area. The horseshoe-shaped bay creates a secluded atmosphere, while calm waters make swimming easily accessible. The surrounding hiking trails provide scintillating panoramic views, making Keem Beach one of Ireland’s true hidden gems."
Secluded and Safe for Swimming
Because it's at the end of the road, Keem gives visitors the feeling of being on the edge of the world. Its beauty attracts some visitors, but relatively few make the journey, so it never feels overrun. The horseshoe shape shelters the bay from the open Atlantic swell, making the water calmer than most of Ireland's west coast and ideal for swimming.
Trails rise from the beach toward Croaghaun, one of Ireland's highest sea cliffs, offering panoramic views over the bay. In summer, the area is popular for basking shark and dolphin sightings.
Getting There from Liverpool
Keem Beach is part of the Wild Atlantic Way and fits naturally into a broader Achill Island or Mayo coastal road trip, with nearby spots like Keel Beach, Minaun Cliffs, and the deserted village at Slievemore.
For Liverpool residents, the journey involves a 1hr 5min flight from John Lennon Airport to West Kinnock, followed by a 75-minute drive. Alternatively, taking the Stena Line and driving five hours across the country is longer but more environmentally friendly.
