

Best for beginner divers, 1-8m, shore entry, mild current.
Benderg Bay is a reef site located within the Killard National Nature Reserve in Strangford Lough. This shore-entry location is suitable for beginners, offering shallow depths ranging from 1 to 8 metres with an average of 4 metres. The environment features extensive rock pools and sheltered waters. Conditions vary, with mild currents and potential hazards including cold water, surf, and rip currents. Species recorded around this area include curled octopus, squat lobster, common lobster, wrasses, flatworms, sea slugs, catsharks, gurnards, conger eels, giant jellyfish, orange-clubbed nudibranchs, crabs, and sea stars. Parking is available at the site, which is well-suited for a 45-minute snorkel session.
54.31450, -5.53420
The bay is very tidal with only a narrow strip of sand at high tide but it has a nice expanse of sandy beach at low tide.
Access is via a forty-five minute walk from Mill Quarter Bay and Killard National Nature Reserve. Park at the Killard layby on the main road and walk round the nature reserve towards Killard Point.
Recorded nearby, within 20km
Depth
Up to 8m
Skill Level
Beginner
Entry
Shore
Water Temp
9-15°C
Current
Mild
Typical Dive
45 min
Species recorded around this area include curled octopus, squat lobster, common lobster, wrasses, flatworms, sea slugs, catsharks, gurnards, conger eels, giant jellyfish, orange-clubbed nudibranchs, crabs, and sea stars.
Yes, Benderg Bay is suitable for beginners due to its shallow depths and sheltered environment.
The depth ranges from 1 to 8 metres, with an average depth of 4 metres.
Yes, Benderg Bay is a shore-entry site with parking facilities available.
Yes, this site is rated 4/5 for snorkelling.
A drysuit recommended is recommended for diving at Benderg Bay in Killough. Water temperatures range from 9°C to 15°C.
Benderg Bay in Killough typically has mild currents that most divers can handle comfortably.