Hidden Irish Seaside Town Set For Tourism Boom in 2026

One County Cork seaside town will see people flocking from all over to enjoy its assets.

A charming coastal town, located in Ireland’s largest county, is set to become the must-visit location of 2026. Once home to Sir Walter Raleigh, who is credited with introducing potatoes to Ireland in the 16th century, this town is steeped in layers of history with stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. 

Youghal, situated in County Cork, is home to Ireland’s longest seaside walk and takes great pride in its local, thriving Irish hospitality scene. This is a destination for travellers seeking authentic Irish experiences away from the usual tourist spots. It’s the ideal place to explore – don’t forget your camera.

What to see and do in Youghal – a step back in time

Stretching almost 2 km (1.2 miles) from Front Strand to Redbarn, Youghal’s boardwalk is the longest seaside walk in Ireland. It has been designed to be fully accessible for everyone, including prams and wheelchair users. 

Walking along the boardwalk, travellers can witness the Blue Flag beaches of Claycastle, Redbarn, and Ballyvergan Marsh with picturesque views of the Atlantic Ocean. Youghal’s Blue Flag beaches are recognised for having high levels of safety, good water quality, and promoting sustainable and eco-friendly practices. 

This location offers peaceful views, making it ideal for an afternoon walk or an opportunity to relax and witness Ireland’s beautiful Southern coastline. Travellers can experience golden hour here in Youghal – bring your camera and capture Ireland’s golden scenes. 

Take a walk through history – Youghal’s clock tower and medieval town walls

Built in 1777, the Clock Gate Tower is located in the heart of Youghal. The purpose of the tower has changed over the years; history tells that it was once the town’s prison and merchant offices. The tower is a popular landmark of Youghal as it stands at an impressive height of 100 ft (30 m) on the Main Street.

Today, visitors can explore 700 years of history across four floors with guided tours.  It is advised that when visiting the Clock Gate Tower, you should not miss the stunning 360-degree views of Youghal Bay. This is a must-stop for both photographers and history enthusiasts. 

Youghal is also home to one of Ireland’s oldest churches, still in continuous use to this day. St. Mary’s Collegiate Church has over 1,300 years of history – if walls could talk, this church would have plenty of stories to share with

its visitors. With its beautiful medieval Gothic architecture, travellers can explore St. Mary’s through self-guided tours and interactive displays, which are all free of charge. Near the church, discover the remains of the medieval town walls, which once protected Youghal’s port from invaders. This location showcases Youghal’s deep historic past to explorers, and stories learned here, travellers will bring back home.   

Regal Cinema and authentic local dining – tourists will be delighted

Rediscover Youghal’s cinematic past at the Regal Cinema, which dates back to the 1930s. The cinema first opened on 15th June 1936, with the screening of the Irving Berlin musical Top Hat, starring Fred Astaire. Both locals and visitors are happy to see the Regal Cinema back in business after a temporary closure in 2010. It has been beautifully restored to its original style. 

The cinema still has many of its stunning historic features, while giving its guests modern comfort. The use of its elegant decor and relaxing atmosphere makes it a one-of-a-kind place to spend an evening.  For travellers, this puts a unique spin on a traditional cinema experience – enjoy your favourite beverage in a 1930s-style cinema, an experience to proudly remember. 

In Youghal, the hospitality scene promotes both local and warm traditional Irish food. The Red Store has been a favourite among locals and visitors since it was established in 1999. Another Youghal favourite is Clancy’s Bar and Restaurant, best known for its locally sourced seafood and relaxed atmosphere. 

Youghal is about celebrating local produce, which travellers will witness during their time here. Each location offers its own take on the local thriving hospitality scene, with popular spots including Aherne’s Seafood Restaurant and Bar, Priory Coffee Co, and The House Restaurant at Cliff House Hotel.