The Beach
As a bathing place Kilkee is unsurpassed by any resort. The beach sweeps in a grand semi-circular curve in front of the town and its smooth clean and firm sands, washed daily by the Atlantic tides afford excellent bathing, always in perfect safety. One of its main features is its very gradual slope towards the sea with virtually no current. Not surprisingly, Kilkee has a well deserved reputation as the safest bathing place in Ireland with bathing and swimming enjoyed at all stages of the tide. Indeed Kilkee has regularly been awarded the Blue Flag by the European Commission in recognition of the absence of pollution in its clear waters. In addition to the strand, swimmers have the choice of several sandy coves and natural rock-enclosed pools including the famous Pollock Holes in which the water is changed by every tide. For the more adventurous, diving boards are provided at New Found Out and dives of up to 45 feet (13m) can be made into the open sea.
Waterworld
For indoor swimming there is Kilkee Waterworld, a modern facility built in recent years at the eastern side of the town. Waterworld is a popular all weather facility with a range of indoor water attractions including a bubble pool, shower geysers, the 'lazy river ride' and a 61m crystal tower slide.
Opening Hours
Off-season: Please phone for details 065-9056855
Summer:
June - Open 12pm to 8pm Daily
July & August - Open 11am to 8pm Daily
Classes available
Email: kilkeeww@iol.ie
Diving
The Kilkee Diving & Watersports Centre is a fully equipped diving centre with facilities for novices and experts alike. In 1999, the centre became the first dive school to be recognised by the Irish Underwater Council (CFT) Training Course. Previously, training courses were only held within clubs, however, now prospective divers can complete their training in the centre to either trainee diver or club diver standard and then join one of the 84 clubs in Ireland. The training they receive will be to the same high standard that CFT divers have been renowned world-wide. It is possible to dive all year around although the best months are April to October with depths from 32 ft (10m) to 147ft (45m) found around the coast. The crystal clear waters of the bay have a Europe-wide reputation for the variety of dives and the diversity of marine life. The centre is located on the seafront. Snorkelling, sailing and board-sailing are also available with instruction.
Web: http://www.diveinireland.com/
Golf
Kilkee's 18-Hole championship quality golf course is situated on the road towards George's Head and stretches along the spectacular cliffs. In 1963, a new clubhouse was constructed and includes changing rooms, bar, kitchen, restaurant, veranda shelter and two car parks. Green fees are moderate at this friendly club and visitors are always welcome. Clubs & caddycars are available to hire and caddies may be booked.
Web: http://www.kilkeegolfclub.ie/
Fishing
Kilkee is a fisherman's paradise. The shore fishing and rock fishing are incomparable and crewed boats are available for hire for deep-sea fishing.
Web: www.fishkilkee.com
Walking
The walks at both sides of the bay are justly famous. The views on a clear day are of the Aran Islands to the north, Kerry to the south and Loop Head to the West. The cliff scenery can only be described as spectacular.
Pitch and Putt
There is a well laid out course at the western end of the town. Clubs and balls may be hired here.
Thalassotherapy Centre
In the past sea-weed baths were very popular and were regarded as beneficial to the health. Today their modern successor is the Thalassotherapy Centre in Grattan Street. A variety of sea based therapies are provided here by fully qualified personnel. Fáilte Ireland approved accommodation is also available here.
Web: http://www.kilkeethalasso.com/
Dining Out
Kilkee has a variety of cafés and restaurants to suit every taste and budget. Some specialise in locally caught fish and shellfish. Try them all!
Night Life
Kilkee's night life is legendary. With its relaxed informality and late night aura, the nightowl is well catered for. The pubs and lounge bars have regular music and sing song sessions ranging from Grand Opera to the latest pop. Talent competitions, traditional Irish nights, cabaret, dancing and pub theatre are all regular features of the entertainment scene. There are several modern night-clubs also in the town.