Old Head beach is overlooked by a woodland to the west and Croagh Patrick to the south and east. This beach has a number of rock pools that are exposed when the tide is out. The beach is sheltered from the south and west.

Lifeguards are on duty through the summer months and the beach and toilets are wheelchair accessible.

Bigger swells during the winter months make this beach a popular destination for surfers and windsurfers. There is a pier at the western end of the beach which provides shelter for a small anchorage point, popular with local sailors and fishermen.