Omey Strand Beach

Omey Strand in Connemara is a large expanse of flat sand connecting Omey Island to the mainland. The beach here doubles as a road and a racetrack although this all depends on whether the tide is in or out.

The crossing to the island is around 500 metres across the sand and it is actually marked out with road signs. Whether you walk or particularly if you drive across to Omey Island it is essential that you are aware of the tide times and plan ahead. The tides are only low enough to cross for a few hours each day.

The annual Omey horse races take place during July/August and are a major draw for both visitors and locals alike. However, over recent years there have been a number of cancellations owing to Covid and insurance issues.

If you are at Omey Strand and the tides are favourable then it is well worth a visit to the island. There are a wealth of sites to see most notable of which are St Fechin’s Church (Teampaill Feichin) and Holy Well. The island was once inhabited by over 400 people but today the only permanent inhabitants are in the burial ground.