Ollscoil na hÉireann, Corcaigh

National University of Ireland, Cork

Owenahincha Beach

Report prepared by
Nicholas Myers 119477054

for the module

CE6043 Coastal and Harbour Engineering
as part of the degree of
ME (Civil, Structural and Environmental)

University College Cork

School of Engineering and Architecture

Lecturer: Dr. Jimmy Murphy

2023
Ollscoil na hÉireann, Corcaigh CE6043 Coastal and Harbour Engineering
National University of Ireland, Cork Owenahincha Beach

Table of Contents
1. OWENAHINCHA ............................................................................................... 1
2. PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS .......................................................................... 2
2.1 Sediment Type.................................................................................................... 2
2.2 Beach Profile ...................................................................................................... 2
2.3 Coastal Landforms .............................................................................................. 2
2.4 Tidal Range ........................................................................................................ 3
2.5 Wave Action ....................................................................................................... 2
2.6 Vegetation .......................................................................................................... 3
2.7 Water Quality ...................................................................................................... 3
2.8 Colour ................................................................................................................. 3
2.9 Erosional Features .............................................................................................. 3
2.10 Human Influence................................................................................................. 4
3. ENVIRONMENTAL FORCINGS .......................................................................... 5
3.1 Wave Action ....................................................................................................... 5
3.2 Storm Surges ...................................................................................................... 5
3.3 Tides ................................................................................................................... 5
3.4 Wind ................................................................................................................... 6
3.5 Climate Patterns ................................................................................................. 6
3.6 Human Activities ................................................................................................. 5
3.7 Sea Level Rise.................................................................................................... 5
3.8 Long-Shore Drift ................................................................................................. 7
4. HISTORICAL COASTAL EROSION ..................................................................... 8
4.1 History ................................................................................................................ 8
4.2 Current protection ............................................................................................... 8
5. LOCAL ASSETS................................................................................................. 10
6. COASTAL PROTECTION SOLUTION ................................................................ 11
6.1 Solution............................................................................................................. 11
6.2 Cost .................................................................................................................. 11
6.3 Construction ..................................................................................................... 11
6.4 Impacts ............................................................................................................. 12
6.5 Other solutions.................................................................................................. 12
7. CONCLUSION ................................................................................................. 14
8. REFERENCES .................................................................................................... 15

119477054 November 2023 Page i

Ollscoil na hÉireann, Corcaigh CE6043 Coastal and Harbour Engineering
National University of Ireland, Cork Owenahincha Beach

Table of Figures
Figure 1: Owenahincha Today .............................................................................................. 1
Figure 2: Owenahincha 1977 ................................................................................................ 1
Figure 3: Ariel View of Owenahincha .................................................................................... 2
Figure 4: Wind Rose Chart Wave Height............................................................................... 2
Figure 5: Marram Grass ........................................................................................................ 3
Figure 6: Wind Rose Chart Wind Speed................................................................................ 5
Figure 7: Wind Rose Chart Wind Speed................................................................................ 6
Figure 8: Wave Direction ....................................................................................................... 7
Figure 9: Current Coastal Protection ..................................................................................... 8
Figure 10: Stone Mattresses ................................................................................................. 8
Figure 11: Bridge Fortifications ............................................................................................. 9
Figure 12: Local Assets....................................................................................................... 10

119477054 November 2023 Page ii

Ollscoil na hÉireann, Corcaigh CE6043 Coastal and Harbour Engineering
National University of Ireland, Cork Owenahincha Beach

1. OWENAHINCHA
Owenahincha Beach is a sandy beach located in Cork, Ireland. The beach is
known for its strong waves and consistent swell, making it a popular spot for
surfers and kitesurfers. However, the beach is also susceptible to erosion, and
this is a growing concern due to climate change and sea level rise.
In the 1970s and 80s, Owenahincha Beach played a significant role in the
region's history and culture. While its popularity as a bustling resort has waned
over time, the beach retains its natural beauty and continues to draw visitors
seeking peace, tranquillity, and opportunities for recreation.
In 2022, the beach was awarded the prestigious Blue Flag designation, a
testament to its cleanliness, water quality, and environmental management.
This recognition underscores the beach's ongoing conservation efforts and its
commitment to preserving its pristine natural state.

Figure 1: Owenahincha Today

Figure 2: Owenahincha 1977

Student No. Month Year

Ollscoil na hÉireann, Corcaigh CE6043 Coastal and Harbour Engineering
National University of Ireland, Cork Owenahincha Beach

2. PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS
2.1 Sediment Type
Owenahincha Beach is a sandy beach with a grain size of approximately 0.25
to 0.5 millimetres. The sand is well-sorted and light in colour.

2.2 Beach Profile

The beach profile of Owenahincha Beach is characterized by a steep slope
with a narrow beach area. The orientation of the beach is roughly northwest to
southeast. The beach is divided into two sections by rocks on the shore and a
set of rocks at the tip of a sand spit right (only visible at low tide) in front of the
lifeguard’s station. It is bounded by a cliff faces on both the north and south
sides.

2.3 Coastal Landforms

The most prominent coastal landform are the cliffs at either end of the beach,
a stream running through the north half of the beach and a line of dunes the
back of the beach.

Figure 3: Ariel View of Owenahincha

2.4 Wave Action

The wave action is strong and consistent. With an average wave significant
wave height of 1.6m and come from a West-Southwest direction. As shown

Figure 4: Wind Rose Chart Wave Height

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Ollscoil na hÉireann, Corcaigh CE6043 Coastal and Harbour Engineering
National University of Ireland, Cork Owenahincha Beach

2.5 Tidal Range

The tidal range of the beach is approximately 4 meters.

2.6 Vegetation
The vegetation of the beach is dominated by marram grass.

Figure 5: Marram Grass

2.7 Water Quality

As stated above just in the past year the beach was awarded a blue flag for
water quality. A Blue Flag beach is a beach that has been awarded the Blue
Flag certification by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE). The Blue
Flag is an international environmental award given to beaches and marinas
throughout the world that demonstrate good environmental standards and
have good sanitary and safety facilities. The award is in place in over 50
countries internationally. The Blue Flag award is awarded to a beach or marina
for one season (July to August) only. The award of a Blue Flag to a beach
depends on compliance with 33 criteria covering the following aspects: water
quality, environmental education, and information, environmental
management, and safety and services. Blue Flag beaches are guaranteed to
be clean and well-maintained, offer safe swimming opportunities, and have
better accessibility than non-Blue Flag beaches.

2.8 Colour
The sand at Owenahincha Beach is a light tan colour. The water is a clear blue
colour.

2.9 Erosional Features

The most common erosional features at Owenahincha Beach are scarping
and slumping. Scarping is the erosion of the dune face, while slumping is the
collapse of the dune face. Aswell due to the presence of longshore drift,
moving the sand from the north to the south, the beach has been narrowing
over time.

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Ollscoil na hÉireann, Corcaigh CE6043 Coastal and Harbour Engineering
National University of Ireland, Cork Owenahincha Beach

2.10 Human Influence

Human activities have had a significant impact on Owenahincha Beach. The
beach is a popular spot for surfing, kitesurfing, and swimming. These activities
can compact the sand and make it more susceptible to erosion. Aswell there
are few pathways through the dunes, so instead people walk through the
dunes trampling the marram grass, leaving the dune system unprotected in
turn. the beach is also used by farmers to graze cattle and sheep. In addition,
human activities such as the development of the town behind the beach has
disrupted the natural flow of sediment and exacerbate erosion.

Student No. Month Year

Ollscoil na hÉireann, Corcaigh CE6043 Coastal and Harbour Engineering
National University of Ireland, Cork Owenahincha Beach

3. ENVIRONMENTAL FORCINGS
Environmental forcings are natural or human-induced factors that influence
the environment and its processes. They can have a significant impact on
various aspects of the environment, including climate, ecosystems, and
biodiversity.

3.1 Wave Action

Wave action is the primary environmental forcing at Owenahincha beach. The
waves predominantly come from a West-Southwest direction with an average
speed of 0.14 m/s, as shown in the following diagram.

Figure 6: Wind Rose Chart Wind Speed

3.2 Storm Surges

Due the already strong and consistent waves, storm surges at Owenahincha
inundate the beach and cause flooding to the area behind the dunes.

3.3 Tides
High tides reach the backshore of the beach and erode the dunes.

3.4 Human Activities

Coastal development can disrupt the natural flow of sediment and make the
beach more susceptible to erosion. In addition, activities such as surfing,
kitesurfing, and swimming can compact the sand and make it more
susceptible to erosion.

3.5 Sea Level Rise

Sea levels are expected to rise by about 1 cm every year for the rest of the
century.

Student No. Month Year

Ollscoil na hÉireann, Corcaigh CE6043 Coastal and Harbour Engineering
National University of Ireland, Cork Owenahincha Beach

3.6 Wind
The wind action at Owenahincha beach is another primary forcing at the
beach leading to the north to south longshore drift of sediment. The main
direction of the wind is East Sout East with an average speed of 6.39 m/s. as
shown in the diagram below.

Figure 7: Wind Rose Chart Wind Speed

3.7 Climate Patterns

Owenahincha Beach experiences a temperate oceanic climate,
characterized by mild temperatures, ample rainfall, and moderate humidity
throughout the year. The Köppen climate classification for the region is Cfb,
meaning it has warm summers and mild winters with no dry season.
The average annual temperature at Owenahincha Beach is 10.5°C. Summers
are generally mild, with average temperatures ranging from 15°C to 20°C.
Winters are relatively mild, with average temperatures ranging from 5°C to
10°C.
Owenahincha Beach experiences an average of 1,200 millimetres of rainfall
per year. Rainfall is relatively evenly distributed throughout the year, with no
significant dry season. The wettest months are October and November when
rainfall averages around 150 millimetres per month. This rainfall can influence
the stream that flow out on the northern half of the beach.

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Ollscoil na hÉireann, Corcaigh CE6043 Coastal and Harbour Engineering
National University of Ireland, Cork Owenahincha Beach

3.8 Long-Shore Drift

Long shore drift is the movement of sand, silt, and other sediments along a
coastline parallel to the shore. It is caused by the action of waves, which
approach the shore at an angle. This is the main form of erosion found at the
beach. Since the prevailing direction of waves, WSW, hits the beach at an
angle and then pushed the sediment down the beach as shown in the
following diagram.

Figure 8: Wave Direction

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Ollscoil na hÉireann, Corcaigh CE6043 Coastal and Harbour Engineering
National University of Ireland, Cork Owenahincha Beach

4. HISTORICAL COASTAL EROSION

4.1 History
Owenahincha Beach has been experiencing erosion for many years. The rate
of erosion is estimated to be 1 meter per year. This erosion is attributed to a
combination of natural processes and human activities.
Since the beach faces straight out onto the Atlantic Ocean, its strong currents,
and waves, has been a primary agent of erosion at Owenahincha Beach. Over
time, the ceaseless action of waves has created a strong longshore drift effect
which has chipped away at the shoreline, causing the dunes to recede and
the beach to narrow. This natural process has been exacerbated by extreme
weather events, such as storms and cyclones, which unleash particularly
forceful waves that accelerate erosion.
Human activities have also contributed to the degradation of Owenahincha
Beach. The growing popularity of the beach among recreational users has
placed increasing pressure on the dunes. Foot traffic, particularly in
concentrated areas, compacts the sand, making it more susceptible to wind
and wave action. This compaction disrupts the natural structure of the dunes,
weakening their ability to withstand the forces of erosion.

4.2 Current protection

To combat this multiple protection schemes are currently in effect, see
following diagram.

Figure 9: Current Coastal Protection

Between points A and B, a series of stone filled mattresses were placed, in the
1970s, by the Cork County Council and AnCO (the Irish National Training
Agency) to prevent sand leaching and protect the lower regions of the dunes
from the tide.

Figure 10: Stone Mattresses

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Ollscoil na hÉireann, Corcaigh CE6043 Coastal and Harbour Engineering
National University of Ireland, Cork Owenahincha Beach

And between points C and D, additional revetments were built on either side
of the bridge at the back of the beach to protect the foundation of the bridge
from high tides and for when the stream breaks it banks.

Figure 11: Bridge Fortifications

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Ollscoil na hÉireann, Corcaigh CE6043 Coastal and Harbour Engineering
National University of Ireland, Cork Owenahincha Beach

5. LOCAL ASSETS
There are several valuable local assets around Owenahincha beach that are
vulnerable to damage if the beach erodes further.
1. Residential Properties:
Numerous residential properties such as homes and mobile home parks
are situated along the coastline near Owenahincha Beach. The total
estimated value of these properties is approximately €100 million.

2. Commercial Properties:
Commercial infrastructure, such as hotels, restaurants, and shops, is
also present near Owenahincha Beach. The combined value of these
commercial properties is estimated at €50 million.

3. Tourism Infrastructure:
Owenahincha Beach is a popular tourist destination, and various
tourism infrastructure facilities, such as parking lots, access roads, and
picnic areas, are located near the beach. The estimated value of this
tourism infrastructure is €20 million.

This gives a rough estimate of €170 million in the general vicinity.

Figure 12: Local Assets

Student No. Month Year

Ollscoil na hÉireann, Corcaigh CE6043 Coastal and Harbour Engineering
National University of Ireland, Cork Owenahincha Beach

6. COASTAL PROTECTION SOLUTION

6.1 Solution
Given that most of the erosion occurring at Owenahincha beach is due to a
deficit in the sediment budget caused by either the long shore drift, wind, or
wave action. This deficit is causing the beach to get narrower and narrower,
significantly increasing the risk to the local assets. Therefore, the most suitable
coastal protection solution for Owenahincha Beach is beach nourishment.
Beach nourishment has proven effective in combating coastal erosion by
replenishing the beach's sand supply and increasing its resilience to wave
action, which is one of the more impactful forcings on the beach. Since the
nourishment utilizes natural materials and does not create long-lasting physical
barriers that can disrupt marine ecosystems and impede the social importance
of the beach right now. By replenishing the beach's natural defences, beach
nourishment promotes long-term sustainability and reduces the need for
frequent interventions.

6.2 Cost
The estimated cost of implementing beach nourishment at Owenahincha
Beach is approximately €5 million. Which is fraction of the total local assets
value.

6.3 Construction
The construction process would be broken up into 5 phases:
1. Surveying:
Conducting detailed surveys to determine the exact location and
volume of sand required for nourishment.

2. Dredging:
Dredging sand from offshore sources or neighbouring beaches using
specialized vessels.

3. Transportation:
Transporting the dredged sand to Owenahincha Beach using barges
or trucks.

4. Placement:
Placing the sand on the beach using bulldozers or other heavy
machinery to create a natural-looking shoreline.

5. Monitoring:
Regularly monitoring the effectiveness of the beach nourishment
project and adjusting as needed.

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Ollscoil na hÉireann, Corcaigh CE6043 Coastal and Harbour Engineering
National University of Ireland, Cork Owenahincha Beach

6.4 Impacts
Beach nourishment will only have positive impacts on the adjacent areas of
coastline surrounding the beach. Unlike other forms of protections beach
nourishment does not inherently have any serous negative side-effects.
For example, Groynes can trap sand, causing erosion of beaches on the other
side. Breakwaters can create large, artificial barriers that can make it difficult
to access the ocean. Both of which tend to be expensive to build and
maintain. Making them a burden on taxpayers or property owners. And in some
cases, the cost of coastal protection measures may outweigh the value of the
assets its protecting.
However, for beach nourishment this is not the case. By replenishing the sand
supply, beach nourishment will reduce erosion rates, protecting adjacent
shorelines and infrastructure. The restored beach habitat will provide suitable
conditions for various marine and terrestrial species, promoting biodiversity. A
wider and more stable beach will enhance recreational opportunities for
swimming, surfing, and other activities, hopefully bringing the beach back to
its hay day of the 1970s and 80s. Protecting the shoreline from erosion will help
maintain property values in adjacent areas, promoting investment and more
people to move and settle in the area. An improved beach environment will
attract more visitors, boosting tourism revenue for the region.

6.5 Other solutions

Beach nourishment mustn’t be the only form of protection put in place other
efforts need to be made such as:
 Dune Stabilization:
o Sand Fencing: Wooden or wire mesh sand fencing is installed
along the dunes. These fences help trap wind-blown sand,
allowing it to accumulate and build up the dunes naturally.
o Vegetation Planting: Native grasses, shrubs, and other coastal
plants are intentionally planted on the dunes. Their root systems
stabilize the sand and prevent erosion.
 Educational Campaigns:
o Awareness Programs: Local authorities and environmental
organizations conduct educational campaigns. These aim to
raise awareness among visitors about the fragile ecosystem and
the importance of minimizing impact.
o Guided Tours: Guided tours are organized to showcase the
beach’s natural beauty while emphasizing responsible
behaviour.
 Beach Cleanup Initiatives:
o Community Involvement: Regular beach cleanup events involve
volunteers who collect litter, debris, and plastics. Keeping the
beach clean helps maintain its ecological balance.
 Monitoring and Research:

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Ollscoil na hÉireann, Corcaigh CE6043 Coastal and Harbour Engineering
National University of Ireland, Cork Owenahincha Beach

o Erosion Studies: Scientists and researchers monitor erosion rates,

sediment movement, and dune stability. This data informs
ongoing conservation strategies.
o Ecological Surveys: Surveys assess the health of the beach
ecosystem, including plant and animal species. Insights guide
management decisions.
 Local Regulations:
o Zoning and Restrictions: Local regulations limit construction near
the beach to protect the natural landscape. Building setbacks
and restrictions on beachfront development play a crucial role.

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Ollscoil na hÉireann, Corcaigh CE6043 Coastal and Harbour Engineering
National University of Ireland, Cork Owenahincha Beach

7. CONCLUSION
Owenahincha Beach is a beautiful and popular beach that is facing the threat
of coastal erosion. The erosion is caused by a combination of natural and
human-induced factors. To combat the erosion, the Cork County Council and
AnCO have implemented several measures, however, more needs to be done.
In my opinion the best solution right now is beach nourishment. This is a proven
and effective method of combating coastal erosion. It is also a cost-effective
solution, as it is much cheaper than other forms of coastal protection. In
addition to beach nourishment, other measures need to be taken to protect
Owenahincha Beach, such as dune stabilization and educational campaigns,
these measures will help to protect the beach and its valuable local assets for
future generations.

Student No. Month Year

Ollscoil na hÉireann, Corcaigh CE6043 Coastal and Harbour Engineering
National University of Ireland, Cork Owenahincha Beach

8. REFERENCES
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1002/jqs.3390040103
http://www.deepmapscork.ie/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/Deep-Maps-
Cork-Literature-Review.pdf
https://cora.ucc.ie/server/api/core/bitstreams/52cb400e-43d2-42e8-a69f-
b2580bd9ab2e/content
https://www.beaches.ie/find-a-beach/#/beach/IESWBWC110_0000_0200
https://www.water.ie/projects/strategic-plans/water-services-strategic/Water-
Services-Strategic-Plan-2050-Strategic-Environmental-Assessment-Scoping-
Report-(3)-(1).pdf
https://www.corkcoco.ie/sites/default/files/2022-04/updated-strategic-flood-
risk-assessment-october-2021-pdf.pdf
https://www.npws.ie/sites/default/files/publications/pdf/Ryle_et_al_2009_Coa
stal_Monitoring_Project.pdf
https://www.southernstar.ie/news/deluge-4210215
https://www.rte.ie/archives/2022/0721/1311458-cork-beach-erosion/
https://www.irishexaminer.com/lifestyle/arid-20235346.html
https://coastradar.com/places/ireland/cork/owenahincha-beach/
https://birdwatchcork.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/Cork-Bird-Report-
1996-2004-1.pdf
https://www.beaches.ie/wp-
content/files//profile/BWPR00638_2022_01_profile.pdf

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