#593 European Rank Blue Flag Certified
Ballymastocker Bay
Portsalon, Donegal, Ireland•Atlantic Ocean• Best Season: June, July, August
Photo: Andreas F. Borchert (CC BY-SA 4.0) · Wikimedia Commons source
EDITORIAL SCORE
4.22/ 5.0
SEA TEMPERATURE
14.9°C
August 30-year average
DAILY BUDGET
€48/day
SAND & SHORELINE
Golden Sand
Gradual Drop
Sea Temperature by Month
30-year monthly averages for Portsalon, Donegal · NOAA satellite dataSwipe 12 months ⇄
Refreshing Plunge
Jan
8.9°C
Air 11°C
Feb
8.4°C
Air 12°C
Mar
8.3°C
Air 14°C
Apr
9.0°C
Air 17°C
May
10.5°C
Air 20°C
Jun
12.5°C
Air 23°C
Jul
14.1°C
Air 25°C
Peak
Aug
14.9°C
Air 25°C
Sep
14.5°C
Air 23°C
Oct
13.1°C
Air 20°C
Nov
11.6°C
Air 16°C
Dec
10.1°C
Air 13°C
Swimmability Window · NOAA Climatology
Peak 14.9°C in August · cold-water plunge / wetsuit season
30-year NOAA satellite climatological mean (1991–2020).Explore all Ireland Sea Temperatures
Score Breakdown
Scenery & Setting4.6 / 5
Water Clarity & Cleanliness5.0 / 5
Sand & Shoreline Quality4.7 / 5
Atmosphere & Safety4.8 / 5
Accessibility & Entry Ease4.2 / 5
Affordability & Fair Pricing4.2 / 5
About Ballymastocker Bay
A golden crescent on Lough Swilly in Donegal, regularly ranked among the world's most beautiful beaches.
Destination Advisory & Classificationcold-water destination (14.9°C peak) — aesthetic/scenic ranking rather than warm swimming
Key Beach Facts
Official Records•Access: R268 Knockalla coast road leading to Portsalon car park and dune access tracks
•Protected Status / Environment: Blue Flag beach and designated Natural Heritage Area on Lough Swilly
•Notable Feature: Sweeping 2km golden crescent bay voted second most beautiful beach in the world by The Observer, overlooked by Knockalla Mountain
Amenities & Facilities
Bathrooms
NoShowers
NoFree Parking
NoFood / Tavernas
YesGood for Kids
NoDog Friendly
YesLifeguard on Duty
YesSunbed & Umbrella Rentals
NoNatural Cliff/Pine Shade
YesWheelchair Accessible
NoSnorkeling & Watersports
NoNudist / FKK Friendly
YesGetting There & Local Notes
Getting there:
Located near Portsalon, Donegal. Accessible via regional coastal roads (55.200°N, -7.630°E).
•Sheltered by the lough; cold but calm.
•The green flank of the Fanad peninsula on Lough Swilly.
Nearest Airport & Transit Gateway
INTL · 40m driveConvenient highway or local transit access across Portsalon, Donegal, Ireland.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Ballymastocker Bay
What is the water temperature at Ballymastocker Bay?
The peak summer sea surface temperature at Ballymastocker Bay averages 14.9°C (59°F), based on 30-year NOAA satellite climatology.
What type of coast or sand is Ballymastocker Bay?
Ballymastocker Bay is classified as a golden sand shoreline located in Portsalon, Donegal, Ireland.
Is Ballymastocker Bay good for families with kids?
Ballymastocker Bay has steeper entry or natural coastal features better suited for confident swimmers.
Are there parking and facilities at Ballymastocker Bay?
Parking arrangements vary locally. No public restrooms directly on-site.
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