Galway's Best Clubs for Sea Swims, Runs & Outdoor Adventures
Galway is full of some of the most welcoming active communities, which are brilliant, low-pressure ways to move and meet new people. This World Health Day, we've rounded up some of our favourites.
For people who can’t sit still on the shore
What: Hightide Gentle Swimming Community
Where: Big beach Salthill
When: Saturday mornings, 10am
If you've been curious about open water swimming but unsure of where to start, won't find a more welcoming gang than Joe Kennelly's Gentle Swimming community.
Meeting every Saturday morning at Salthill's Big Beach, the group focuses on creating a supportive and inclusive environment where participants can build confidence in the water at their own pace.
With a strong emphasis on safety, wellbeing and community, it’s as much about the shared experience as it is the swim itself, making it an ideal way to start your weekend by the coast.
For people happiest when they're out on the water
What: Galway Kayaking Club
Where: Riverside, Galway, Ireland H91 FH61
When: Times vary
The Galway Kayak club offers programmes for all ages and skill levels, from junior kayak camps to adult beginner courses, offering a brilliant way to explore Galway's rivers and coastlines.
Expect group paddles and enjoy a variety of water activities, including sea kayaking, canoeing, playboating and canoe polo. The club provides a safe, friendly environment to develop skills, meet fellow paddlers, and, most importantly, to have fun on the water.
For people whose ideal Sunday involves trainers and a pint
What: Galway Bay Brewery run club
Where: Salt House & Oslo
When: 7pm, last Monday of the month at Oslo Bar and 12.30pm 12:30pm, second Sunday of the month at Salthouse
The team behind Galway Bay Brewery host two running clubs that offer a relaxed, welcoming take on fitness. With no sign up required, runners can simply show up and choose from a range of distances, from a gentle 5k to longer routes along the Salthill Prom. The focus is firmly on enjoyment rather than competition, with everyone running at their own pace before regrouping for a well-earned cold one at the end.
It’s an easy low pressure way to get active, meet new people, and enjoy the Galway coastline.
For people who show up for the chats as much as the 5k
What: Connexions Run Club
Where: Various locations
When: Every Tuesday
Connexions started as 15 strangers running one Saturday in January 2024, and has blossomed into a community of nearly 600, with over 100 runners joining for a run in any given week. With a big focus on connection and creating a welcoming, supportive community, it's great for seasoned runners and newbies alike.
For people whose book club needed a walk
What: Read & Run Galway
Where: Various locatioms
When: Times vary (check social pages linked below)
Read & Run Galway blends gentle movement with relaxed conversation, combining easy 5k runs or walks with informal book chats. Things usually start with a relaxed discussion about whatever book has been chosen and then people head out for a leisurely 5k, with everyone moving at their own pace.
It’s less about structure and more about confidence and connection, offering a space to unwind, meet likeminded people and enjoy a lighter, more flexible approach to both reading and getting active.
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