5 seaside spots where you can grab a coffee and a bite on the beach
Summer is almost here.
And now that Mother Nature has ceased soaking us in drizzle, it’s nice to get out of town and enjoy the sand and salty air for an afternoon.
Even if you’re not a sea swimmer, there’s nothing like the simple pleasure of a meditative coffee or a bag of chips on the sand while taking in the sights and sounds of the ocean.
Here are five spots where you can find a coastal coffee and a sandy snack:
1. The Fishbasket
Last year, former food truck owners to seaside restauranteurs Peter and Elaine Shannon added to their Long Strand abode with a glorious canopy, under which you can enjoy your Fishbasket coffee, or head onto the beach for a long walk on the Long Strand of a fine day.
You can also indulge in their heavenly cakes, available from 10am, or order from their breakfast and lunch menu, served daily from 9am and 12pm respectively. Don’t let the queue put you off, it moves quickly and it’s very well managed.
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2. Boardwalk on the Mall
If you’re heading east, make a beeline for the Boardwalk on the Mall in Youghal, where these coffee fanatics will serve you up a serious flat white before you head on off down the boardwalk to get your Vitamin D hit.
If you’re feeling peckish, grab a chair and sit outside to enjoy an array of menu options including breakfast, soup, sandwiches, homemade cakes, and treats of every order.
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3. Gecko Coffee
As well as the sight of windsurfers and the sound of lapping waves on the shore, you never know what kind of music will greet your ears on Courtmacsherry Beach on a fine day.
The good folks over in Gecko Coffee, a permanent coffee trailer fixture at the popular spot, are there to serve locally sourced drinks and treats including Stone Valley Roasters specialty coffee, O’Connell’s Hot Chocolate, Lab82 Coffee brownies, and Holorganics Kombucha.
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4. The Golden Pheasant and Garden Cafe
Nestled in the heart of Courtmacsherry village, West Cork, lies The Golden Pheasant. Positioned between the pier and the beach, this unique establishment features a charming upstairs cafe and downstairs craft shop.
You can sit under the leafy protection of the surrounding gardens, listen to the captivating sounds from the aviaries, and enjoy the sheltered outdoor seating while sipping on your cappuccino all the live long day.
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5. Coastal Coffee
Coastal Coffee is located in a very unique spot; a little-known island off the coast of Cobh and Ringaskiddy. No, not Spike Island, but Haulbowline (where, incidentally, the world’s first yacht club was founded).
With 360-degree views of the harbour and a quiet recreational park, Haulbowline is the hidden gem of the waters and the perfect spot to grab a mocha and relax while enjoying the views.
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