Top Beach

Several visitors estimate the walk from the parking area to the beach at around 30 to 45 minutes, and depending on the starting point it can take up to about 1 hour. One review describes the route as roughly one third gravel road, one third root-and-stone path, and one third rocky scrambling. It is sensible to allow extra time for the return.

Reviews recommend sturdy shoes or trainers for the access route to Top Beach. Flip-flops are not advised because the path is stony and partly rocky. The final section can involve scrambling, so good grip is useful. If you are walking the full route, which some visitors place at 1 to 2 hours to the rocks, comfortable footwear makes sense.

Several reviews describe the access route as steep, rocky and involving some scrambling near the end. One visitor says the walk to the rocks takes about 1 to 2 hours. The final kilometre of the access road is reported to have potholes, but one review says it is manageable at a sensible speed. It is therefore worth planning extra time and wearing suitable footwear.

According to reviews, the last parking area has about 15 spaces, so availability can be limited. One visitor reports a €240 fine for parking beside other cars instead of in a proper marked space. The access road is said to have potholes in its final kilometre, although it is manageable at a sensible speed. Arriving early is a practical way to improve your chances of finding a legal space.

Yes, one review states that the beach can be reached either by boat or via the hiking route from the first parking area. That can be useful if you want to avoid the roughly 30 to 60 minute walk. The exact availability of boat access may vary by provider and season. It is sensible to check in advance where the boat stops.

Several reviews mention that there is little or no shade, so sun protection and possibly a parasol are useful. In summer, one visitor says the mountains begin to block the sun after about 6 pm. Another review mentions temperatures of around 40 degrees during the hike, so an early start or a later visit can be more practical. Bringing water is also recommended.

Several reviews describe the route as steep, stony and involving some scrambling, so it is better suited to visitors who are sure-footed. One review says the beach surface is made up of small pebbles or coarse stones rather than sand. For families with children or anyone with lower fitness, it is important to factor in the roughly 30 to 60 minute walk and the return journey. Water, sturdy shoes and enough time are advisable.

Several reviews mention goats near the beach, and some say they may approach bags or food. Visitors also report jellyfish in summer, including one account of many jellyfish in the water on 9 August. Sea conditions can also be wavy at times. If you plan to swim or snorkel, it is sensible to check the situation on the day.