Banna Strand

Republic of Ireland, Ireland

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Banna Strand, also known as Banna Beach, is a spectacular 6-to-14-kilometer stretch of fine golden sand and one of Ireland's biggest and best Blue Flag beaches, located on the Atlantic coast of north County Kerry, about 12–13 km northwest of Tralee.

The beach is backed by impressive shifting sand dunes that rise up to 12 meters high along its entire length, offering excellent walking routes and stunning views southwest to Mount Brandon and the Dingle Peninsula mountains. It is a popular weekend getaway for Tralee residents and a famous surfing spot with calm waters ideal for swimming, with full-time daily lifeguards on duty from June to August marking safe swimming areas.

Banna Strand has significant historical importance as the site where Irish revolutionary leader Roger Casement landed from a German U-boat on April 21, 1916, shortly before the Easter Rising, while attempting to bring arms to Irish Republicans; a monument 500 meters south of the main car park marks this location.

The beach features excellent facilities including extensive parking for around 100 vehicles, outdoor showers, clean toilets, a cafe, and nearby amenities like Banna Indoor Swimming Pool with sauna and spa, and the southern end includes Carrahane Lagoon, a haven for migrating birds within a designated Special Area of Conservation.