RNLI Lifeguard with rescue board

West Strand Harbour Beach

This beach is popular with walkers all year round, with views of the bustling harbour and small boats. Blackrocks, at the western end of the beach, is a popular surfing spot. West Bay is backed by a large car park and attracts both locals and tourists.

Lifeguard patrol times 2023

Easter Bank Holiday 07-10 April
Weekends and Bank Holidays Only
29 April-18 June
Daily 24 June-03 September
Patrol times 11am-7pm

Today's weather

21°C Sunshine
Min: 11°C Max: 21°C
Get a 5-day forecast

Beach information

Stay safe on the beach

  • Wherever possible, swim at a lifeguarded beach. Find your nearest RNLI lifeguarded beach, or the Irish Water Safety website.
  • When on a lifeguarded beach, find the red and yellow flags and always swim or bodyboard between them – this area is patrolled by lifeguards.
  • Never swim alone.
  • If you get into trouble, stick your hand in the air and shout for help.
  • If you see someone in difficulty, don't attempt a rescue. Tell a lifeguard, or, if you can't see a lifeguard, call 999 or 112 and ask for the coastguard.
  • For more advice about having fun and staying safe on the beach, see our beach safety advice.

Ready to change lives working as an RNLI lifeguard?

Join the team and you’ll be trained, respected and well paid. You will boost your fitness and train with like-minded people, earn a decent hourly rate from the start, and learn valuable skills that will stay with you for life. 

All of this and you’ll be on the beach helping to save lives every day.  

Have you got what it takes?

If you’re fit, aged 16+ and can swim 400m, why not give it a go? Help with qualification training might be available if you’re new to beach lifeguarding.

So whether you’re qualified or just getting started, visit our recruitment site for info and vacancies, find out more about lifeguard training.

You can help save lives and make our waters safer for everyone.

Donate now

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