Sea, sand and superb cuisine - that’s the promise at four-star Ocean Sands Hotel in Enniscrone, and there's much more too. Whether for family holidays, two-some getaways, weddings or other occasions, this newly refurbished owner-run hotel overlooking the magnificent 5-kilometre sandy beach is just the spot.
Previously known as The Atlantic, it was acquired by local property developer Mark Devaney and his late father Joe, in the early 2000s. Having completely redeveloped the existing hotel they reopened it in 2007. Since then, they've recently completed an extensive refurbishment and upgrading programme (and opened new areas including a spa and coffee dock), culminating in the upgrade to Failte Ireland four-star status in 2022.
There's an impressive bridal suite complete with sea view balcony and bath in the room. There are a number of options for weddings from 20 to 300 guests, civil ceremonies in-house, and on the beach.
With 50 generous bedrooms including 20 family rooms, the Ocean Sands is especially suited to family holidays. Directly behind the hotel and near a safe and attractive playground beside outdoor tables, there are 13 roomy and well-appointed apartments with easy beach access - ideal for families. Although there isn't a pool, there is an aqua facility nearby and Pebbles Playroom on the ground floor is open year-round with supervised sessions in the summer.
Good food is an important element of a stay at the Ocean Sands - and an outing for the locals too - with variety of choices offered. Polish-born chef, Marcin Szczodrowski, who is well known as the former head chef of the lovely Eala Bhán Restaurant in Sligo town, brings a fine dining touch to this seaside hotel and apartments with new menus and a focus on local and quality produce such as Dozio cheese and Tobercurry beef. The 'fine dining bistro' Dunes Restaurant is open on selected evenings, while the aptly named Ocean Bar and Restaurant (where breakfast is also served) offers quality casual dining for both lunch and dinner daily. Desserts are a particular strong point, with an unusual, deep-fried Bao Bun with caramel sauce among the specialoties. Since his appointment Marcin has introduced a luxury Afternoon Tea by the Sea and occasionally offers a signature nine-course Chefs Tasting Menu. And - best of all for some guests - the hotel is dog-friendly, not only welcoming furry friends in selected hotel rooms and apartments but also offering a designated Doggy Dining Area, which means you can dine with your pooch.
