@WhereinDublinIf you’re visiting Dublin or living there and want a relaxing day out by the water, the good news is, you don’t need to spend a cent. Dublin has plenty of beautiful beaches that are completely free to access. These beaches aren’t just for summer swims; they’re great for long walks, sea air, and peaceful moments all year round.
From my own personal experience, spending time at these beaches gives a refreshing break from the city’s buzz. You don’t have to travel far or pay parking fees to enjoy the sea breeze. Let’s take a deep look at the best free beaches in Dublin, what makes each one special, and what you can expect when you visit.
Dublin’s Coastline: What Makes It Special
Dublin might be famous for its pubs, music, and rich history, but it also has a surprisingly scenic coastline. The city stretches along Dublin Bay, giving access to both sandy beaches and rocky shores.
Most of these beaches are public, meaning they are free to visit. You can swim, walk, sunbathe, or simply enjoy the view, no ticket, no entry fee. Some have lifeguards in the summer, while others are quieter and more natural.
The great thing is that many of these beaches are easily reached by public transport, especially the DART (Dublin Area Rapid Transit). You can hop on a train from the city center and be by the sea in under 30 minutes.
Best Free Beaches in Dublin
Here’s a complete list of Dublin’s top free beaches, what makes them unique, and a few insider tips for visiting each one.
1. Dollymount Strand (Bull Island Beach)
Location: Clontarf, North Dublin
How to get there: Take the DART to Clontarf Road Station, or bus 130 from the city center.
Dollymount Strand is one of Dublin’s most famous beaches and completely free to visit. It stretches for about 5 kilometers along Bull Island. It’s perfect for long walks, beach games, or a peaceful sit-down to watch the waves.
You’ll find plenty of locals walking dogs or doing kitesurfing here. On sunny days, the beach gets lively, but it’s big enough to find your own quiet spot.
There’s also a wooden bridge leading to the island—a scenic walk that gives you great photo spots of Dublin Bay.
Why visit:
Long and clean beach
Ideal for walking, kitesurfing, or swimming
Views of Dublin city and Howth
Easy to reach by bus or bike
Tip: Bring snacks or a picnic. There are a few food trucks nearby, but they don’t stay open late.
2. Sandymount Strand
Location: South Dublin
How to get there: DART to Sandymount Station or bus 1, 4, or 7.
Sandymount Strand is a wide beach with soft sand and amazing views of Poolbeg Lighthouse. It’s a favorite among locals who enjoy evening walks. You can walk along the beach or follow the coastal path that stretches all the way to the lighthouse.
The tide goes far out here, revealing large sand flats, so it’s not always ideal for swimming. But it’s beautiful for photography and peaceful walks.
Why visit:
Free access and open all year
Lovely walking route to Poolbeg Lighthouse
Great for sunrise or sunset views
Nearby cafes and restaurants in Sandymount village
Tip: Wear good shoes if walking far—the sand can get muddy during low tide.
3. Killiney Beach
Location: South Dublin (Killiney)
How to get there: DART to Killiney Station—exit straight onto the beach.
Killiney Beach has a more rugged feel, surrounded by cliffs and beautiful coastal views. It’s a mix of sand and pebbles, and the clear water makes it a good spot for a swim during warm months.
Many people compare it to beaches you’d find in Italy or Greece, especially when the weather’s good. Bono and other famous residents even live nearby.
Why visit:
Clear water, great for swimming
Scenic cliffs and panoramic views
Free access all year round
Easy to reach by DART
Tip: Bring water shoes if you plan to swim—the stones can be rough underfoot.
4. Portmarnock Beach (Velvet Strand)
Location: North County Dublin
How to get there: DART to Portmarnock Station or bus 42 from the city center.
Portmarnock Beach, often called Velvet Strand, is one of the longest and cleanest beaches in Dublin. The sand is soft, and the beach stretches for about 5 kilometers. It’s popular for walking, jogging, and swimming.
It’s free to visit and has excellent views of Howth Head and Ireland’s Eye island. Families love it because of its safe swimming areas and wide open space.
Why visit:
Great for families and groups
Long sandy stretch for walks
Safe for swimming
Free public access
Tip: Arrive early on sunny weekends—it can get busy. Parking is limited.
5. Burrow Beach (Sutton)
Location: Sutton, near Howth
How to get there: DART to Sutton Station—it’s a short walk from there.
Burrow Beach is a local favorite that many tourists overlook. It’s small, peaceful, and offers beautiful views of Ireland’s Eye. The beach has soft sand and shallow water, making it safe for paddling or a quick dip.
It’s also perfect for quiet walks, especially in the evening. Since it’s lesser known, it’s rarely crowded.
Why visit:
Quiet and calm
Free and easy to access
Beautiful view of Ireland’s Eye
Great for short, peaceful walks
Tip: No toilets or shops nearby, so plan ahead.
6. Seapoint Beach
Location: Between Blackrock and Monkstown
How to get there: DART to Seapoint Station—it’s right beside the beach.
Seapoint is one of Dublin’s official bathing spots, and locals love it. The beach area is small, but it’s a popular swimming place with steps into the sea.
It’s completely free, and lifeguards are present in the summer months. You’ll often see people swimming here even in winter.
Why visit:
Free all-year swimming
Lifeguards during summer
Close to DART and parking
Great views of Howth
Tip: Bring a towel and warm clothes if swimming—the Irish Sea can be chilly.
7. Howth Cliffs and Balscadden Bay Beach
Location: Howth Peninsula
How to get there: DART to Howth Station, then a 10-minute walk.
Howth is famous for its cliff walks, but it also hides a small gem—Balscadden Bay Beach. It’s a small cove with clear blue water, surrounded by cliffs. Free to visit and perfect for those who love a quiet spot.
The cliffs around Howth offer walking trails with amazing sea views. After your walk, you can head down to the beach for a rest or a swim.
Why visit:
Great mix of cliffs and beach
Free entry, quiet atmosphere
Beautiful views and hiking options
Near seafood restaurants and cafes
Tip: The path down is steep—wear good shoes.
8. Skerries South Beach
Location: North County Dublin
How to get there: Train to Skerries Station, then a 10-minute walk.
Skerries is a coastal town with two main beaches—South Beach and North Beach. Both are free, but South Beach is more popular for swimming and sunbathing.
The beach is sandy, wide, and very family-friendly. There are cafes, toilets, and parking nearby, making it a great choice for a full beach day.
Why visit:
Clean, sandy beach
Facilities nearby
Family-friendly
Free access
Tip: Stay to enjoy the sunset—it’s one of Dublin’s best.
Free Things You Can Do at Dublin Beaches
Even though the beaches are free, you can still enjoy plenty of fun activities without spending money.
1. Go for a Swim
Many Dublin beaches are safe for swimming during the summer. Seapoint, Portmarnock, and Killiney are great options. Always check the water quality signs before swimming.
2. Take Long Walks
Dollymount and Sandymount are perfect for long, relaxing walks. The air is fresh, and the sound of the waves is calming.
3. Watch the Sunrise or Sunset
Killiney and Skerries are amazing for sunrise, while Sandymount and Portmarnock shine during sunset.
4. Have a Picnic
Bring some snacks and enjoy a seaside picnic. Just remember to take your rubbish with you to keep the beaches clean.
5. Photography and Birdwatching
Dublin Bay attracts all kinds of seabirds. Dollymount Strand and Bull Island are great spots for this.
6. Try Sea Swimming All Year
Locals love cold-water swimming, especially at Seapoint or the Forty Foot in Dun Laoghaire (also free!). It’s said to boost mood and health.
How to Get to Dublin Beaches for Free or Cheap
You don’t need a car to explore Dublin’s beaches. Most of them are connected by public transport.
By DART Train
The DART runs along the coast and stops near nearly every major beach. You can use a Leap Card for cheaper fares.
By Bus
Dublin Bus routes like 130, 31, 32, and 42 connect the city to beaches like Dollymount, Howth, and Portmarnock.
By Bike
Dublin’s coastline is bike-friendly. You can cycle from the city center to Sandymount or Clontarf easily.
Beach Safety Tips
Always check local signs before swimming.
Avoid swimming during red flags.
Stay close to lifeguarded zones.
Keep an eye on tides, especially at Sandymount.
Wear sunscreen even on cloudy days.
Extra Hidden Gems Worth Visiting
If you’ve already seen the main beaches, here are a few lesser-known free spots:
White Rock Beach (Dalkey): Small, scenic, and perfect for swimming.
The Forty Foot (Dun Laoghaire): A historic sea-bathing spot—free and popular all year.
Red Rock Beach (Sutton): Secluded and peaceful.
These smaller beaches might not have cafes or lifeguards, but they’re great for quiet time or sea views.
Final Thoughts
Dublin might surprise you with how many free beaches it offers. You don’t have to spend anything to enjoy soft sand, open sea views, and fresh air. Whether you’re into swimming, walking, or simply sitting by the waves, there’s a free beach that suits you.
Based on my overall experience, these beaches show a side of Dublin that many visitors miss. They’re peaceful, natural, and easy to reach. Each one has its charm, and the best part, you can enjoy them anytime without paying a single euro.
So grab a towel, pack a snack, and take a short trip to the coast. Dublin’s free beaches are waiting for you to explore them.
