Capel Island and Knockadoon Head

Capel Island and Knockadoon Head Nature Reserve encompasses approximately 353 acres (1.43 km²) of protected coastal landscape along County Cork's southern coastline near Youghal. This dual-site reserve includes all of Capel Island, a portion of Knockadoon headland directly opposite, and the intervening sea area between them. Established in 1985, the reserve is renowned for its dramatic cliff scenery, diverse birdlife, and unique population of wild Irish goats on Capel Island. The combination of maritime heathland, sea cliffs, and island habitat creates an important refuge for coastal wildlife along Ireland's Celtic Sea coast.