Before the Walk, After the Swim: Why Molly's is Tramore's Favourite Meeting Spot
There's something magical about watching dawn break over Tramore Bay. The golden light spills across five kilometers of pristine sand, and illuminating the blue waters that have made our town so talked about. And there's no better place to witness this daily miracle than from the prom and way of Molly's Cafe, with a steaming cup of 3FE coffee in hand, as the town slowly stirs to life behind you.
Beachfront Beacon
As a local who has walked the Prom in all seasons and all weather, I can tell you that Molly's isn't just a cafe - it's an institution. Perfectly positioned within the TBay Surf & Eco Centre right on the Promenade, it offers a chance to immerse in the community of Tramore: cosy indoor and outdoor views of our magnificent bay, where the Atlantic constantly changes in a display of nature's power and beauty.
While visitors might initially be drawn to Molly's for the location (and believe me, it's worth it), we locals return day after day for what many consider some of the finest coffee in Tramore. In a town that's blessed with several excellent coffee spots, Molly's holds its own with distinction. The queue that often stretches out the door isn't just tourists - it's the morning ritual for many of us who call Tramore home. We're willing to wait because we know what awaits.
The staff know most of us by name, greeting regulars with genuine warmth that makes Molly's feel less like a business and more like a friend's kitchen. They're always up for a chat, creating that distinct community atmosphere that visitors instantly notice and wish they could package and take home with them.
Beyond the Cup: A Taste of Tramore
The food at Molly's deserves special mention - particularly their excellent breakfast Blaa. For the uninitiated, the Blaa is Waterford's gift to the bread world: a soft, doughy roll that's unique to our county and dates back to the 17th century. Molly's serves what many locals love as their Blaa breakfast of choice, meat in a bun with sea air and the soundtrack of waves.
Their toasties, served on Seagull Bakery sourdough (another local treasure just up the road), showcase the collaborative spirit that makes Tramore's food scene so special. From the rice krispie squares that take me back to childhood to the variety of sambos (sandwiches) that hit the spot after a morning surf session, everything feels thoughtfully prepared and satisfyingly unfussy.
A Community Hub
What truly sets Molly's apart is how deeply it's woven into the fabric of Tramore life. Beyond serving great food and drink, the cafe plays a vital role in our community, serving as the booking point for the Beach Wheelchair scheme that makes our beautiful beach accessible to everyone. This involvement speaks volumes about what Molly's represents: not just commerce, but community.
Dog walkers know their four-legged friends are welcome, with special canine treats available. Families appreciate the outdoor seating where children can be entertained by the passing parade of beach-goers. Surfers pop in before and after catching waves, their wetsuits dripping on the floor. It's a place where everyone belongs.
Why We Never Leave (And Why You'll Want to Stay)
As a local, I've sometimes wondered what it would be like to live somewhere else, away from the constant song of the sea and the familiar faces of my small town. But then I find myself on a misty morning at Molly's, watching surfers brave the dawn patrol through steamed-up windows, exchanging nods with neighbors, and I remember why I stay.
Tramore offers that increasingly rare combination of natural beauty, community connection, and simple pleasures done exceptionally well. Molly's embodies this spirit perfectly, unpretentious yet outstanding, welcoming to all yet distinctly local, modern in its offerings yet timeless in its appeal.
Visitors often come for a day and end up extending their stay, captivated by Tramore's charm. Many return year after year, and some, like me, never leave at all. So consider this your invitation: come for the coffee at Molly's, stay for the surf, the sand, the scenery, and the sense of having discovered a place where life moves to the rhythm of the tides and every day begins with the promise of the perfect cup.
Visitor Information:
Location:
Molly's Cafe
Tbay Surf and Eco Centre
The Promenade
Tramore, Co. Waterford
Contact:
Phone: 085 193 9669
Opening Hours:
Monday to Friday: 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Saturday and Sunday: 9:00 AM - 5:30 PM
(Opening hours may vary seasonally)
What to Know:
Peak times are typically weekend mornings and sunny afternoons when the beach is busiest
Upstairs seating offers the best panoramic views
Dog-friendly establishment with options for your four-legged friends
Wheelchair accessible ground floor.
Beach Wheelchair booking point for those needing accessible beach access
No reservations needed - casual walk-in service
Located right beside TBay Surf School for convenient pre/post-surf refreshments
Getting There:
Easily found along Tramore's main promenade, walking distance from the town center and with nearby public parking. Look for the Tbay Surf and Eco Centre building facing the beach.
Whether you're planning a quick coffee stop or making Molly's the centerpiece of your Tramore adventure, these details should help you find your way to this local treasure.