Lacken Strand in North Mayo is located about 8 km north of Killala. Lacken Strand is a sheltered inlet, hidden from the wild Atlantic waves by a series of spectacular sand dunes.
Lacken Strand, and the adjoining beach at Kilcummin, are never too crowded even during the hottest days of summer.
Every May, Lacken Strand plays host to the Lacken Strand Races which attracts people from all over Ireland to an exciting day of seaside horse racing and entertainment for all the family.
The wide, flat stretch of sandy beach at Lacken is flooded by the tide twice daily so keep this in mind if you decide to wander over to the Kilcummin side – known locally as the back beach.
The beach at Kilcummin is one of the best beaches in Mayo for a family day out, and perfect for a barbecue if the weather is good enough. There is a separate entrance to this beach – off the main road to Kilcummin harbour.
If you are planning to swim take heed of the warning signs of dangerous currents – a and never get out of your depth.
Kilcummin has become popular in recent years for surfing and kayaking. During July and August, depending on the weather conditions, dolphins sometimes come into the bay and their acrobatics provide lots of entertainment for holidaymakers.
The two nearby small harbours, Rathlacken in Lacken Bay, and Kilcummin pier in Killala Bay are also worth visiting.
It was at Kilcummin in 1798 that General Humbert and its French army came ashore before marching to Ballina to do battle with the British.
MAYO.ME 