> Connemara Sands Spa * Private Beach & Seaweed Spa

Name: Connemara Sands Hotel & Spa, Clifden
Address: Ballyconneely, Clifden, Galway County
Price range: US$296+
Rating: 8.8

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Connemara Sands Hotel & Spa Clifden Nature photo

Connemara Sands Hotel & Spa Clifden Exterior photo

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Key details

About the Hotel

Ballyconneely, Clifden

Close to Mannin Bay Blueway Beach

Great

8.8

/10

4.7

Loved by Connemara Sands Hotel & Spa guests

Lovely sea views

Excellent staff

Delicious meals

Relaxing lounge area

"Our highlight has to be the sea sauna with Irelands most instagrammable sauna view...words can't describe it!"

Susan O'Neill from Ireland

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"At the back of the Hotel is the most fabulous Beach - when the tide is out, you could be anywhere in the world your imagination wills!"

Daniel from Ireland

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"The dinners were top notch absolutely delicious, and the little chess table was a great way to pass an hour,, actually on our final night it hosted an international between our 10 year old nephew and a lad from Germany was good Craic where we made new friends."

Paddy from Ireland

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4-star beachfront retreat on Mannin Bay

Location

Connemara Sands Hotel & Spa is positioned on the Slyne Head Peninsula, a Protected Natural Haven in Connemara. This beachfront boutique hotel provides direct access to the fine sandy shores of Mannin Bay, ideal for outdoor activities. Clifden, the vibrant capital of Connemara, is just 10 km away and offers local culture and exploration.

Wellness

The hotel boasts an organic Seaweed Spa offering treatments that utilize certified organic products sourced from the Atlantic Ocean. A beachside sauna, hot tub spa, and outdoor changing areas complement the wellness experience. Seaweed baths and thermal therapy treatments are available for guests seeking relaxation and rejuvenation.

Rooms

Guests can choose from luxurious hotel rooms, self-catering cottages, and spacious suites, each showcasing the coastal landscape. The Luxury King Double Oceanview room features a bamboo mattress topper and breathtaking bay views. Self-catering options include fully equipped apartments ideal for families or groups.

Dining

Dining at Connemara Sands highlights the 'Connemara on a Plate' philosophy emphasizing local ingredients from surrounding producers. The Sands Bar & Restaurant serves a variety of modern Irish and European dishes, complemented by a selection of local craft beers. Guests can also enjoy casual fare from the Cois Trá food truck located steps from the beach.

Activities

The hotel offers a range of outdoor experiences, including sea swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding along the Connemara Blueway. Guests can take part in guided adventure activities such as surfing, hiking, and coasteering, led by local experts. The nearby Connemara Championship Golf Links is a notable attraction for golf enthusiasts.

Highlights

Location: Protected Natural Haven

Wellness: organic Seaweed Spa and beachside sauna

Rooms: Luxury King Double Oceanview

Dining: Sands Bar & Restaurant and Cois Trá food truck

Activities: Coasteering and kayaking on the Connemara Blueway

Must-do experiences

Savor homemade brown bread at Mitchell's Seafood for breakfast.
Visit Connemara National Park for breathtaking hiking trails.
Explore the wild beauty of the Sky Road at sunset.
Try the famous seafood chowder at O'Dowd's in Roundstone.
Discover local crafts at Clifden's Saturday market for unique gifts.

Location: Perfect

9.4/10Review score

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Highlights from guests

DiningExceptional Cuisine

Dinner was amazing! I savored the buttered scallops and almond-crusted salmon. Breakfast offered a huge, high-quality range. It was a delight!

Rachel Green from United States

Review on

Spa & LeisureBeachside Bliss

The sea sauna is breathtaking! The sauna view over the white sandy beach is the most instagrammable in Ireland.

Ciara Walsh from Ireland

Review on

Sports & FitnessKayaking Fun

Kids enjoyed kayaking on the beach. The hotel is a two-minute walk from the beach. It's an ideal getaway!

George Smith from United Kingdom

Review on

Room FeaturesSuite Surprise

The family suite had a terrace with lovely views and direct access to the tennis court. Perfect!

Sophie Dubois from France

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Select your room type

Connemara Sands Hotel & Spa offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals

Deluxe Double Room Sea View
2 persons
20 sq. feet
1 King-size bed
Sea view
Heating
Coffee machine
room details
Deluxe Double Room
2 persons
20 sq. feet
1 King-size bed
Heating
Coffee machine
room details
Luxury Double Room Ocean Mountain Views
2 persons
40 sq. feet
1 King-size bed
Mountain view
Air conditioning
Bathtub
room details

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Check-in/ Check-out

Facilities

Connemara Sands Hotel & Spa offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences

Facilities: Great

8.9/10Review score

General

No smoking on site
Wi-Fi
Parking
Safe deposit box
24-hour reception
VIP check-in/ -out
Express check-in/ -out
Pets allowed
Rooms/ Facilities for disabled
24-hour security
Luggage storage
Private beach
Lift
Coffee shop
Smoke detectors
Electric vehicle charging station
Fire extinguishers
Key card access

Sports & Fitness

Wind surfing
Diving
Snorkelling
Canoeing
Hiking
Horseback riding
Tennis court
Golf course
Yoga class
Fishing

Guest Parking

Electric kettle
Dryer
Cookware/ Kitchen utensils

Services

Paid airport shuttle
Room service
Housekeeping
Dry cleaning
Tours/Ticket assistance
Welcome drink

Dining

In-room breakfast
Restaurant
Bar/ Lounge area
Outdoor dining area
Picnic area/ Tables
Dinner
Packed lunches
Special diet menus

Business

Business centre
Meeting/ Banquet facilities
Fax/Photocopying

Children

Cots
Babysitting/Child services
Children's buffet
Board games

Spa & Leisure

Beach access
Live entertainment
Sun terrace
Garden area
Leisure/ TV room
Spa & wellness centre
Sauna
Steam room
Jacuzzi
Back massage
Head massage
Full body massage
Foot massage
Open-air bath

Room features

Heating
Soundproofed rooms
Sitting area
Patio
Terrace
Garden furniture
Tea and coffee facilities
Dining table
Ironing facilities

Bathroom

Washing machine
Free toiletries
Sink

Self-catering

Electric kettle
Dryer
Cookware/ Kitchen utensils

Media

Flat-screen TV
AM/FM alarm clock

Room decor

Carpeted floor

Dining Onsite

At Connemara Sands Hotel & Spa, culinary delights await in a charming atmosphere. The Sands Bar specializes in diverse meal options, from wholesome vegan choices to gluten-free and dairy-free dishes, perfect for families and those with dietary preferences. Indulge in local flavors with an array of fresh ingredients crafted to excite the palate.

Connemara Sands Hotel & Spa Clifden Restaurant photo

Sands Bar

Family-friendly casual dining with vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free options

Ambiance

Relaxed and welcoming, perfect for families seeking a cozy dining experience.

Key Offerings

Savor local farmhouse cheeses and carefully prepared vegetables that highlight regional freshness. Enjoy a complimentary Voya herbal tea while lounging in the relaxation room.

Reservation

Not required

Open daily from 1:00 PM to 10:00 PM for brunch and dinner.

Location

Ballyconneely, Clifden

Explore Clifden

Local Highlights

Alcock and Brown Landing Site

5 minutes' walk

Historical significance as the first transatlantic flight landing site, marked by informative displays.

Mannin Bay Blueway

15 minutes' walk

Scenic coastal route ideal for walking, kayaking, and cycling, showcasing beautiful landscapes.

Connemara Golf Links

15 minutes' walk

Challenging 18-hole golf course offering stunning views of the Atlantic, suitable for all skill levels.

Mannin Bay Beach

30 minutes walking

Expansive sandy beach perfect for sunbathing and beach activities, with a picturesque backdrop.

Kayaking at Mannin Bay

15 minutes' walk

Thrilling kayaking rentals available; explore the bay's beauty on guided or self-led tours.

Walking the Connemara National Park

15 minutes' drive

Relaxing nature trails with breathtaking views, offering various routes for all fitness levels.

Horse Riding in Ballyconneely

10 minutes' drive

Enjoy horseback riding lessons or beach rides, suitable for both beginners and experienced riders.

Keogh's Pub

10 minutes' walk

Traditional Irish pub serving hearty meals and local brews, known for its cozy atmosphere.

Connemara Smokehouse & Visitor Centre

50 minutes walking

Specializes in artisanal smoked fish; offers tastings and sales with a focus on sustainability.

Clifden Bay Restaurant

15 minutes' drive

Fine dining experience with seasonal dishes made from local ingredients; reservations recommended.

The Alcock and Brown Hotel Bar

5 minutes' walk

Live music sessions on weekends with a relaxed atmosphere, serving quality drinks and pub fare.

Clifden Arts Festival

15 minutes' drive

Annual festival celebrating local artists and musicians; family-friendly events throughout the week.

Getting around

City Centre
Clifden 11 min · 4.3 mi
Airports
Connemara (NNR) 96 min · 39.4 mi
Ireland West Knock (NOC) 208 min · 86.0 mi

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Property information and rules

Check-in

from 16:00-23:00

Check-out

from 08:00-12:00

Guest Parking

Private parking is possible on site for free.

Internet

Wireless internet is available in the entire hotel for free.

Breakfast

A full breakfast is served at the price of EUR 25 per person per day.

Pets

Pets are allowed on request.

Languages

German

Number of rooms:

Former name

connemara sands beach hotel & spa

Reviews and Ratings

Feedback about Connemara Sands Hotel & Spa from previous guests about their experience.

Review summary

Based on recent reviews

Connemara Sands Hotel & Spa enjoys a great location with its own beach, although it's nearly covered at high tide. Guests often praise the exceptional food, especially enjoying the breakfast and dinners, with the oysters and lobster pie standing out. The suites are spacious, some featuring access to the beach, which is appreciated by many; however, a few guests have mentioned that some rooms, like the luxury double, can feel smaller than expected. The sauna and seaweed baths also provide a unique experience.

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Review score

Based on 348 verified reviews

9.0 /10

Perfect

90 %

Recommend

Location

9.4/10

Comfort

9.3/10

Value for money

8.1/10

Facilities

8.9/10

Pros

Friendly staff

Spectacular beach

Large rooms

Excellent breakfast

Cons

Tired apartment

Unattractive exterior

Mason from United States

Couple

Standard Double Room

2 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: January 26, 2026

9/10

gorgeous shower beautiful view

My room had a standalone bath. The shower was gorgeous, and the bed was comfy. The sea view was beautiful too!

0 Helpful

Anthony from Ireland

Single

Standard Double Room

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: January 08, 2026

9.0/10

Charming Coastal Retreat

friendly staff seaweed bath local cuisine

I was very happy with the local cuisine provided. The meals were really good. The staff made sure I had everything I needed and was friendly. I found the outdoor sauna and hot tub especially novel. I loved the seaweed baths.

I observed some minor wear and tear in the bathroom fittings.

Location

9/10

The hotel's position near the beach gives guests easy access to scenic views and coastal walks. The hotel's extensive beach is almost completely covered at high tide, so plan accordingly for seaside activities.

Rooms

9/10

My room offered voya products and comfortable furnishings. I was pleased with the cleanliness. The bed and pillows provided a restful experience. I was charmed by the sea view.

0 Helpful

Sophia from Greece

Single

Luxury Double Room Ocean Mountain Views

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: December 29, 2025

6/10

small room mold

the food was amazing, i especially liked the breakfast

the room i booked, a luxury double room ocean mountain views, was smaller than expected, and the ocean view was partially obstructed by a building. the bathroom was also dated and i noticed some mold in the shower grout. i thought the condition of the bathroom really detracted from the overall experience, especially considering the price.

0 Helpful

Tony from United Kingdom

Standard Double Room

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: December 13, 2025

9.2/10

Superb Hotel Experience!

warm welcome amazing view attentive service perfectly paired scallops

The sauna provides an amazing view, and the price was an absolute steal. The food in the conservatory was delicious, and the staff offered very attentive service. My scallops were perfectly paired with pickled celeriac and celeriac puree. I found it an explosion of flavor!

The restaurant faces the car park and not the sea. This was not great.

Location

9/10

The hotel has a great location very near the beach and provides fine views. It's perfect for landscape photography. The hotel is roughly a 15-20 minute drive from the nearest town.

Rooms

9/10

The rooms were spacious and spotlessly clean. The view was wonderful. Our room had voya products, I was grateful. The beds are very comfortable. We found it easy to relax.

Facilities

8/10

The hotel provides an outside seaweed bath with amazing views. It's quite a novelty! We enjoyed the seaweed bath and picturesque sauna overlooking the bay. Massages are available.

Dining

10/10

The restaurant has a lovely atmosphere. The food was really good. Breakfast offered excellent choices, and the full Irish breakfast was particularly excellent. The food is locally sourced and of a high quality.

Service

10/10

The staff members were efficient and friendly! They are polite and helpful, I really appreciated it. Staff tended to our every need.

0 Helpful

Nicholas from Australia

Family with children

Standard Double Room

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: November 28, 2025

7/10

Balanced Stay with Some Overlooked Details

clean room spacious room stand alone bath hidden costs hot tub charge pool charge

I found the room clean. The room was spacious, with a stand alone bath. I also enjoyed the shower, and it had comfortable settings. The breakfast included quality ingredients.

I found some costs not transparent. The hot tub required a charge per person. I also noticed the pool required a charge per person, which I found odd. The sauna had additional costs.

0 Helpful

emily from united kingdom

Single

standard double room

3 nights in October 2025

Reviewed: November 16, 2025

8.8/10

a good seaside escape!!!

voya products warm staff amazing food

This hotel was awesome. my room had voya products. I adore them. the staff greeted everyone warmly, and the food tasted amazing!!!

i found the restaurant faced the parking lot, a minor distraction.

Dining

9/10

the breakfast offered fresh options and high quality local ingredients. dinner was delicious with lovely choices on the menu. the food was top notch!!!

Service

9/10

Staff were helpful and efficient at all times. they offered great tips for local attractions. reception was friendly. They could not do enough.

Rooms

9/10

the room was comfortable and beautifully appointed with voya products. it was spacious, super clean, and quiet. the sea view added to the charm.

Facilities

8/10

the beach was easily accessible. sauna access was available for an additional fee. the area included options for walking and other outdoor activities.

0 Helpful

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FAQs

About Connemara Sands Hotel & Spa

What is the check-in and check-out policy at Connemara Sands Hotel & Spa?

Check-in is at 16:00 and check-out is by 12:00.

Is there parking available at Connemara Sands Hotel & Spa?

Free private parking is available on-site without the need for a reservation.

What dining options are available at Connemara Sands Hotel & Spa?

The hotel features an on-site restaurant called Sands and a cocktail bar.

How far is Connemara Sands Hotel & Spa from the nearest airport?

The hotel is located 65 km from Connemara Airport.

What room amenities can guests expect at Connemara Sands Hotel & Spa?

Rooms come equipped with a seating area, tea/coffee making facilities, a safety deposit box, and a private bathroom.

Are there activities available at Connemara Sands Hotel & Spa?

Guests can enjoy on-site activities such as canoeing, bike tours, golfing, and evening entertainment.

What are some nearby attractions to Connemara Sands Hotel & Spa?

Nearby attractions include Clifden Castle and D'Arcy mansion ruins, Connemara Championship Golf Links, and the Wild Atlantic Way scenic coastal routes.

Is Wi-Fi accessible at Connemara Sands Hotel & Spa?

Free Wi-Fi access is available throughout the property.

What is the breakfast policy at Connemara Sands Hotel & Spa?

Breakfast is available for an additional charge of 25 EUR.

What are some of the environmental features at Connemara Sands Hotel & Spa?

The hotel provides direct access to a private beach area and is surrounded by beautiful Connemara landscapes.