Salthill Promenade

The Salthill Promenade is a 2-kilometre seafront walkway along Galway Bay, running from the edge of the city centre suburb of Salthill to the diving tower at the far end. Walking the prom — particularly at dusk when the light over the bay and the Burren hills in County Clare is often spectacular — is one of the classic Galway experiences. The bay here faces south and west, and on a clear evening you can see the Clare hills across the water and occasionally the Aran Islands beyond.

Salthill is a suburb that functions as Galway's beach resort, with amusement arcades, ice cream shops, and pubs alongside the seaside walks. The beach itself is mostly pebbles. The diving tower at the far end of the prom is used by local swimmers year-round, including in midwinter, and watching people hurl themselves into the Atlantic in February is an education in Galway's character. Swimming here is invigorating in summer, bracing in spring and autumn, and essentially extreme sport from November to April.

things to do sight
A story
There is a Salthill tradition called "kicking the wall" — at the far end of the promenade near the diving tower, locals kick a specific point on the sea wall as they pass. The tradition is old enough that no one is certain of its origin, though various theories involve fishermen's superstitions and returning emigrant rituals. A small plaque now marks the spot.