One Of two Dugort Blue Flag Beaches, The Golden Strand can be found approximately 3km east of Dugort Village.
It is also known as Barnyagappul Strand, which is derived from the Gaelic ‘Trá Bhearna na gCapall’ meaning the strand of the gap of the horses. It refers to a time when horses were used to carry seaweed from the shore, which was then used as fertilizer on the fields. It is the larger of the two beaches and is popular with swimmers and walkers. Lifeguards are stationed there during the summer season. It looks out onto Blacksod Bay. There is car parking, but the beach is not wheelchair-accessible. It is the location of The Blueway Kayak Trail, this trail extends 2.4 km between Golden Strand and Silver Strand in Dugort village, and is only suitable for proficient kayakers with sea kayaking experience. Less experienced kayakers may wish to complete the trail under the guidance of a suitably qualified kayaking instructor. The trail is closed during periods of offshore winds. Start at either strand, depending on the tide. The coastline here is rocky with small cliffs and there are tidal flows at the eastern headland near Silver Strand. It is possible to land at a small beach past the western headland from Golden Strand - this should only be used as an access or exit point in emergencies. Sightings of bottlenose dolphins and seals are possible along this trail.