Maghera Beach and Caves

The easiest way to access Maghera beach is from the road that passes Assaranca waterfall. There is actually a local farmer who opens his private land and provides plenty of parking (€5 in 2024) with easy access to the beach.
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Nestled on the rugged Donegal Coastline, Maghera beach and caves provides you with a glimpse into the stunning beauty of Donegal. Flanked on either side by lush green mountains, the beach is accessed by boardwalk leading you through the dunes towards the beach.

On the right is the Owentocleer river that meanders towards the Atlantic, on the left is Crocknamurrin mountain. Over the years, the rough Atlantic waves have battered the rocks creating caves at the foot of the mountain. On a rainy day, it is a spectacular site to see the many streams flowing down the mountain.
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The best time to visit the beach is at low tide as this will allow you to reach the caves  and explore them safely. During low tide, part of the beach turns into a shallow pool which is the ideal place to cool down (whenever that is needed in Ireland).
From a safety perspective, it is really important to check the tides, but also keep an eye on the incoming tide as you could get caught on a sandbank while the Atlantic fills in the large pool between the beach and the sandbank separating you from the beach by a large body of water.

Entering the caves can be difficult, even at low tide. In total, there are some 20 caves and arches, but sometimes only a few are accessible. Water as high as a 1 meter or more can separate you from the cave, but a pair of shorts and quick removal of the shoes should do the trick.