Shenick Island is the largest of the 3 uninhabited islands off the Skerries coast and features the ruins of a Martello Tower. The island is easily accessible on foot at very low Spring tides. If you’re planning to visit, consider the following advice:
- Check the tides – the island is accessible at very low Spring tides. Aim to return to the mainland before 2 hours after the time of low tide. The tide floods very quickly in this area and delaying your departure from the island puts you at risk of stranding.
- Check the weather – the island is quite exposed and offers little shelter. It is advised to only visit in good weather conditions.
- Check the time of sunset – it’s advisable to return to the mainland well before sunset.
- Wear suitable clothing & waterproof footwear – part of the walk may involve traversing large tracts of mussel seed beds.
- Let someone ashore know your plans, your expected return time & what action to take if you do not return.
- Ensure your phone is fully charged.
- If you do find yourself or others in difficulty and require urgent assistance – contact the COAST GUARD on 112.
Shenick Island is a Natural Heritage Area and in the spring/summer months, the island hosts hundreds of nesting gulls & cormorants. Visitors should ensure not to disrupt the wildlife of the island.