Fountainstown Beach is located on the South Cork coast, west of the entrance to Cork Harbour and on the northern side of Ringabella Bay. Fountainstown is a traditional seaside resort. It has impressive views of Ringabella and Roches Point. The beach can be pebbly or sandy, depending on the tides. Lifeguards are on duty during the bathing season.

There are two beach areas at Fountainstown. The Front Beach is located at the entrance to the village, facing east towards Ringabella and is the more frequently used beach for swimming. The Back Beach, which also faces east, is located on a promontory in Ringabella Bay and is generally sandy, though the water is shallow.