@WhereinDublinDublin is famous for its lively streets, rich history, and friendly energy, but few realize how many secret beaches are tucked along its coast. These hidden gems are perfect for quiet walks, sea swims, or just escaping the city buzz. Some are known only to locals, while others take a little exploring to find.
From my own personal experience, Dublin’s hidden beaches feel like tiny slices of paradise right outside the city. You get the sound of waves, sea breeze, and calm surroundings without the usual crowds. If you want to find those lesser-known spots where peace and beauty meet, this guide is for you.
Let’s look into where you can find Dublin’s hidden beaches, the quiet, beautiful, and often overlooked coastal escapes.
The Charm of Dublin’s Coast
Dublin isn’t all pubs and cobblestones. It stretches along a stunning coastline that blends rugged cliffs with soft sandy shores. The Irish Sea gives the city a refreshing balance, you can go from the city center to a quiet beach in under 30 minutes.
While places like Dollymount and Sandymount are well known, they often get packed on warm days. But if you drive or take a train a little farther out, you’ll discover quieter coves, scenic trails, and tiny beaches where you might be the only one around.
These are the kinds of places where you can sit back, breathe in the salty air, and just enjoy a moment of calm.
Hidden Beaches You Need to Discover in Dublin
Let’s go through the most beautiful, lesser-known beaches in and around Dublin that locals quietly love.
1. White Rock Beach (Killiney)
White Rock Beach is one of Dublin’s best-kept secrets. It hides beneath Killiney Hill, just a short walk from Killiney DART Station. The beach is tucked between rocky cliffs, giving it a secluded feel.
The sand here is soft, and the water is clear, perfect for swimming during summer mornings or evening dips. It’s small, so it rarely feels crowded. On clear days, you can see Bray Head in the distance, adding to the charm.
Locals often walk from Killiney Beach to White Rock at low tide. It’s peaceful, scenic, and feels like a private escape even though it’s close to the city.
Why go: Calm, scenic, and easy to reach by DART.
Perfect for: Quiet swimming, sunbathing, or a solo sea moment.
2. Vico Baths (Dalkey)
Vico Baths is not exactly a “beach,” but it deserves a mention. It’s a hidden sea-swimming spot located just beyond Dalkey, near Killiney Hill.
You follow a small path down the cliff, past stone steps carved into the rocks. What you’ll find is a natural seawater pool surrounded by the open sea — raw, stunning, and peaceful.
Vico Baths attracts early-morning swimmers who come here for the cold, refreshing water and panoramic views. It’s also a favorite place for photos at sunrise.
Why go: Quiet swim spot with an incredible view of the Irish Sea.
Perfect for: Sea swimming, sunrise photos, meditation time.
3. Hawk Cliff (Dalkey)
A few steps away from Vico Baths, Hawk Cliff is another hidden spot for sea swimmers and peace seekers. It’s not sandy — instead, it has rock platforms that lead straight into the sea.
This area is often less busy than the nearby Vico Baths, even though it’s just as beautiful. Early risers and locals love it for morning dips and sunset reflections.
From my own personal experience, Hawk Cliff feels like a small slice of freedom. You can sit on the rocks, dip your toes in the cold water, and enjoy the sound of waves echoing off the cliffs.
Why go: For the quiet, clean water and cliffside beauty.
Perfect for: Experienced swimmers and people who love natural settings.
4. Balscadden Bay (Howth)
Tucked below Howth Head, Balscadden Bay is one of the prettiest hidden beaches near Dublin. It’s a small, sheltered cove surrounded by cliffs and greenery.
To reach it, you walk along the path near Howth Harbour and follow the signs for Balscadden Bay. It’s easy to miss, which makes it all the more peaceful.
The water here is usually calm, and the rocks make great spots to sit, read, or just stare out at the sea. Howth is known for its fish and chips, so you can grab some before heading here for a quiet picnic by the water.
Why go: Scenic cliffs and peaceful vibes.
Perfect for: Relaxing, short swims, or quiet lunch breaks by the sea.
5. Burrow Beach (Sutton)
Burrow Beach is often overlooked because nearby Portmarnock Beach gets all the attention. But locals know that Burrow is calmer, cleaner, and just as stunning.
It sits between Sutton and Howth, and you can reach it easily by train — just get off at Sutton Station and walk 10 minutes. The beach stretches long and wide, offering space even during sunny weekends.
You get views of Ireland’s Eye island, and the golden sand feels soft under your feet. The water is shallow near the shore, making it safe for gentle swims.
Why go: Spacious yet quiet with great views.
Perfect for: Family outings, peaceful walks, or picnics.
6. Red Rock Beach (Sutton to Howth Cliff Walk)
If you love hiking and quiet spots, Red Rock Beach is ideal. It’s hidden along the cliff path between Sutton and Howth, part of the coastal walk.
The beach gets its name from the reddish hue of the rocks that frame the small cove. It’s not the easiest to access — you need to walk down a steep path — but that’s what keeps it hidden.
The reward is a quiet, natural beach surrounded by cliffs, far from noise or crowds.
Why go: Hidden and scenic, perfect for explorers.
Perfect for: Photography, solo walks, and nature breaks.
7. Donabate Beach (Balcarrick Beach)
This long sandy beach near Donabate is often quiet, especially on weekdays. It’s wide enough to walk for miles, with views of Lambay Island across the water.
The beach connects to Portrane Beach at low tide, so you can walk along the entire stretch in peace.
From my own personal experience, this spot is perfect for switching off. The sound of the waves and endless horizon make you forget you’re anywhere near Dublin city.
Why go: Spacious and quiet with beautiful scenery.
Perfect for: Long walks, dog walks, or simply relaxing.
8. Sutton Martello Tower Beach
Near Sutton Martello Tower, there’s a small hidden strip of sand that many overlook. It’s just off the coastal road and offers a peaceful place to sit and watch the sea.
It’s not ideal for swimming due to the rocks, but it’s perfect if you want somewhere private to unwind.
Why go: Small and secluded with sea views.
Perfect for: Reading, sketching, or short peaceful breaks.
9. Loughshinny Beach (North Dublin)
A bit farther north of Skerries, Loughshinny Beach sits in a small fishing village. It’s one of those spots where you can sit quietly while small boats float in and out of the harbor.
The beach curves gently, with cliffs on one side and calm waters on the other. Few tourists visit, giving it a peaceful, old-Irish feel.
Why go: Authentic local vibe with calm surroundings.
Perfect for: Peaceful seaside strolls or watching the sunset.
10. Rush South Beach
Rush has two beaches, but the South Beach is often quieter and more relaxed. It’s a long sandy stretch with gentle waves and a calm atmosphere.
It’s also one of the cleanest beaches in North Dublin, perfect for people who love natural, quiet settings.
Why go: Clean, calm, and open.
Perfect for: Casual swimming or beach walks.
Tips for Exploring Dublin’s Hidden Beaches
Finding hidden beaches takes a bit of curiosity. Here are some tips to make your adventures easier and more enjoyable:
1. Check the Tide Times
Some smaller beaches disappear during high tide. Always check tide schedules before visiting to make sure you have space to walk or sit comfortably.
2. Bring Light Snacks and Water
Many of these hidden spots don’t have nearby cafes or shops. Pack some snacks, water, and maybe a thermos of coffee if you plan to stay for a while.
3. Use Public Transport or Walk
Dublin’s coastal train (DART) connects you to most of these beaches. It’s affordable, fast, and scenic. Stops like Killiney, Sutton, Dalkey, and Howth are perfect starting points.
4. Respect Nature
Leave no litter, avoid loud music, and be gentle with the environment. These beaches stay beautiful because visitors respect them.
5. Go Early or on Weekdays
Even secret beaches get busier on sunny weekends. For a quiet experience, go early in the morning or during weekdays.
Why You’ll Love These Hidden Beaches
These beaches aren’t just about the sea — they’re about moments of calm, simplicity, and connection with nature. Dublin may be a busy city, but it gives you easy access to peace and quiet within minutes.
Each of these hidden beaches offers something special — maybe it’s the color of the rocks, the shape of the coastline, or just the feeling of having the whole place to yourself.
From my own personal experience, few things match sitting quietly by the Irish Sea, hearing waves crash softly, and realizing you’re still so close to the city.
Final Thoughts
Dublin’s hidden beaches remind you that real beauty often hides in plain sight. You don’t need to travel far to find it — sometimes it’s just a short train ride away.
Whether you’re chasing quiet moments, sea swims, or scenic walks, these beaches offer peace without the crowds. They’re proof that Dublin’s coastline has much more to offer than the popular spots everyone talks about.
Next time you want a break from the city noise, pick one from this list, pack light, and go explore. You might just find your new favorite place by the sea.
