"Tralee's Spa" drew many people to the area in the 18th and 19th centuries. It was both a seaside and mineral water health resort. The then Bay View Hotel in the area (now the Oyster Tavern), once owned by W.Lawlor, had it's own water supply analysed. " I have never examined a better water for drinking..." claimed Mr Cameron, the analyst for Co. Kerry in 1876. Dr William Collis, a resident, prescribed the well water for many ills in the 18th century

Mary O Connell, wife and cousin of the Liberator, Daniel O Connell, was born at the Spa. O Connell's Cottage, now derelict, was bought by Major William Collis and he built Kent Lodge nearby in the 19th century – named after Queen Victoria's father, the Duke of Kent. Major Collis was murdered at the Spa in 1821 during a robbery attempt. Kent Lodge then became the home of Commdt. Francis Edward Collingwood, who was renowned for having shot the French musketeer who shot Nelson at Trafalgar and is buried at Churchill graveyard.

The Oyster Tavern - It was a hotel, The Bay View, then a public house owned by Michael Lynch. They were both from Killarney and came to live at the Spa in the 1930's. The premises was re-named The Oyster Tavern and is now the well - known bar and restaurant. Jim McGrath the current proprietor, is coming up to his 20th year at the Oyster tavern and has owned and run it for the last 15 years.