Kilkee

Kilkee is a small coastal town in Co Care. It is midway between Kilrush and Doonbeg on the N67 road and is popular as a seaside resort. One of its standout features is its horseshoe bay, which is protected from the Atlantic Ocean by the Duggerna Reef. A statue of the late Irish actor, singer, songwriter, producer director and writer Richard Harris playing racquetball in his younger years is another highlight. Tourism plays a huge part in Kilkee's economy with many holiday homes, B&Bs and hotels in the area, as well as restaurants, pubs and cafés. Many of these remain closed during the winter months though. Kilkee is also a popular swimming location. Along with bathing on the strand, swimmers can choose from the Pollock Holes, New Found Out and Byrnes Cove. The Pollock Holes, which is also known as Duggerna Reef, are three natural rock-enclosed pools, with water that is changed by every tide. This not only brings in fresh water, but replenishes the marine life in the many rock pools surrounding it. The diving boards at New Found Out allow for dives of up to 13 metres (45 feet) into the open sea. The annual diving competition is held at these boards. Diving is also popular in Kilkee with the Kilkee Dive Centre a fully equipped SCUBA diving centre which caters for both beginners and experts. Horse racing also takes place on the strand each year while there is a GAA club, St Senan's, and an 18 hole golf course to the east end of the town. Bus Éireann offer a service to Kilrush, Ennis and Limerick (via Shannon Airport) from Kilkee.