Elly Bay Beach is a breathtaking, sandy tidal bay that stands out as one of the best things to do with kids in Belmullet if you want an active, coastal day out. Situated on the eastern shoreline of the scenic Mullet Peninsula, this safe marine haven is protected from heavy ocean swells, creating exceptionally calm and shallow waters. Families can spend hours exploring its vast sandy dunes, discovering rare wildlife, or splashing around in the gentle Atlantic shallows.

Prices start from free, as general public access to the shoreline, sand dunes, and standard parking facilities costs absolutely nothing. There are no booking fees or expensive entry tickets required to enjoy this clean Blue Flag destination. It offers a wonderfully affordable, natural playground where parents can let their children connect with the outdoors without worrying about hidden attraction bills.

If you are looking for the best place for a day out with family and kids, this sheltered coastal escape perfectly balances safety with outdoor adventure. Children will love hunting for unique shells that resemble tiny unicorn horns scattered along the waterline. It provides a pristine environment where kids can confidently try out watersports, build expansive sandcastles, or spot migratory coastal birds.

Features

• Sensory Play Elements: Young children can splash through the warm shallow tidal pools, feel fine sand between their toes, and search for uniquely shaped seashells.
• Interactive Water Activities: The exceptionally sheltered bay serves as a premium natural training ground for learning windsurfing, sailing, and canoeing.
• Educational Day Out: The surrounding dune system holds immense international ecological importance, giving children a live lesson in diverse coastal habitats.
• Wildlife and Bird Watching: The pristine bay is an internationally protected sanctuary for rare birdlife, migratory wildfowl, and passing marine life like grey seals.

Top 5 Highlights

• The Unicorn Horn Shell Hunt: The sandy shoreline is famous for its unique, spiral-shaped sea shells that closely resemble magical unicorn horns. Kids will absolutely love beachcombing along the shore to see how many of these hidden treasures they can collect.
• The Shallow Tidal Pools: When the tide pulls back, it leaves behind vast stretches of shallow, sun-warmed water and mini pools. These spots are perfect for toddlers to safely paddle, splash, and search for tiny shoreline critters.
• The Watersports Arena: Because the bay is well-protected from rough Atlantic waves, it acts as a magnet for fun watersports. Older kids and teenagers can safely try their hand at kayaking, windsurfing, or bodyboarding.
• The Double Beach Phenomenon: The unique geography of the area features two distinct beaches sitting on either side of the coastal road. Families can simply walk across the way to experience a completely different view and a whole new set of sand dunes.
• The Grass Machair Dunes: The beach is backed by an impressive network of rare dune grasslands and sandy hillocks. Children will love running up and down the grassy banks, which also double as an amazing backdrop for a family picnic.

Specific Features & Sub-Exhibits

• The East Bay Shoreline: A long arch of fine, deep sand ideal for coastal walks.
• The Rare Machair Ecosystem: A highly protected, vibrant dune grassland home to unique coastal flowers.
• The Protected Bird Sanctuary: An internationally designated zone supporting diverse migratory populations.
• The Local Adventure Centre Pier: A nearby focal point where seasonal watersport activities and safety gear are organised.
• The Cobble Shore Zones: Areas where the sandy beach mixes with smooth coastal stones, perfect for skipping rocks.