Tralee Bay and Magharees Peninsula, West to Cloghane Special Protection Area Adventures

Located along the rugged Atlantic coast of County Kerry, the Tralee Bay and Magharees Peninsula, West to Cloghane Special Protection Area (SPA) encompasses a variety of habitats including sandy beaches, dunes, salt marshes, mudflats, and rocky shorelines. These diverse coastal environments provide essential nesting and feeding grounds for numerous bird species, notably wintering and breeding seabirds and waders. The area is internationally recognized under the EU Birds Directive for its importance to bird conservation, hosting species such as the Light-bellied Brent Goose, Barnacle Goose, Dunlin, and Ringed Plover. Beyond its ornithological significance, the SPA includes varied flora shaped by coastal processes, creating habitats for rare plants and invertebrates. The Magharees Peninsula features dramatic dune systems and offers sweeping views across Tralee Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. The nearby village of Cloghane serves as a gateway for visitors exploring the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the Dingle Peninsula region. Recreational opportunities include birdwatching, hiking, beachcombing, and photography, with trails weaving through dunes and shoreline paths. The area's appeal lies in its combination of rich biodiversity, relatively unspoiled landscapes, and accessibility from local towns. Conservation management efforts focus on protecting sensitive habitats while accommodating low-impact recreation, ensuring long-term sustainability of this important coastal ecosystem.