The Irish coastline is a treasure trove of holiday adventures for the young and the old. The unspoilt beaches of the West of Ireland are next level amazing, with long sandy beaches and clean wild waves, dotted with surfers and paddle boarders. Strandhill, the hidden gem of Sligo (shhhh… dont tell anyone !) has all this and more, with artisan shops and so much to do and see. Make the most of your family stay in Strandhill with plenty of activities for adventurous little ones.
There is plenty of free parking in Strandhill, arrive early to get a spot along the promenade.
At 11 kilometres long, even on busy days, there is plenty of beach to go around in Strandhill. Stock up on picnic supplies from (link)Shells famous Little Shop and spend the day exploring the dunes and playing in the sand.
Bring your bucket and spade and go rock pooling at low tide.
The breathtaking views from Mayo to Donegal provide an incredible background for little ones paddling in the sea, building sandcastles and searching for sea glass, shells and other treasures along the seashore.
For more adventurous kids who are up for a walk, the hike to Killaspugbrone and a swim at high tide in the shallow water at Killaspugbrone Beach, in a picturesque half moon bay flanked by the ruins of an eleventh century stone church sounds perfect. And it is!
To get to Killaspugbrone: start at the cannon and head to your right passing the caravan park and walking along the dunes. Take the concrete walkway and through the gate passing beside the end of the airport runway walking along the grass towards the church. Killaspugbrone beach will be on your right.
Brush the sand off and end the day people watching on the low wall along the promenade, watching Strandhill’s many experienced surfers catching waves, with an ice cream from Mammy Johnstons.
Strandhill is one of Ireland's most popular surfing destinations. Surfing is for everyone and as well as being an excellent sport to help develop balancing skills and coordination, surfing is an excellent way to build water confidence in kids.
As you would expect from a seaside village with world class waves, there are any number of excellent and experienced surf schools in Strandhill that cater lessons for all ages.
From family surf lessons to individual kids surf lessons, there is a class for everyone.
With all the essential gear provided, experienced instructors and a fun environment, you can be sure that your kids are in safe hands. Cheer on from the beach, (warm and dry with a coffee in hand!) and watch them ride their first wave!
For a longer stay, why not book them into a surf camp from Strandhill Surf School which run weekly throughout the school holidays. They will be hanging ten in no time!
Strandhill People’s Market runs every Sunday from 11am - 4pm, making it the perfect last stop for a weekend trip to Strandhill. Located in Hangar 1 at Sligo Airport, just a short stroll from the beachfront, it hosts a huge array of local crafts, food stalls and live music.
Kids will love exploring the market’s many stalls, laden with handmade treasures. Satisfy their sweet tooth with baked goods, sweets and ice cream aplenty!
Grab one of the many bench seats outside the hangar - it’s an excellent spot to watch the small planes and coast guard helicopters take off and land from the airport runway.
There is still plenty of fun to be had in the colder months at the market, with face-painting and Trick-Or-Treating at Hallowee’en or come in December and see Santa - arrive early in the season to watch him arrive in style by helicopter!
Sligo airport provides free car parking, but the market is easily accessible on foot, even with a buggy in tow. With a footpath extending from the beachfront to the airport, even smallies will manage the walk, even better with a bike or scooter!
Stop off at the playground on the way home, which is tucked beside the football grounds of Strand Celtic and features a very popular zipline!
To get to the market: Head east on the Shore road and turn left towards Strandhill Airport.
Strandhill is the perfect spot for family staycations and vacations. Sligo town is a mere bus ride or short car hop away. Cinemas, play centres, petting farms and walking with llamas are in easy reach of your Strandhill holiday stay. Sligo is family friendly and we are delighted to welcome return visitors year on year.
We would be more than happy to plan your Strandhill vacation. Call us on 087 7401483 or email
