@WhereinDublin
Dublin isn’t just about the lively city streets, historic pubs, and cultural landmarks. Just a short drive or train ride from the center, some of the most stunning beaches in Ireland await. Whether the goal is soaking up the sun, enjoying a quiet walk along the shore, or exploring the coastline with friends and family, Dublin’s beaches offer something for everyone. From my own personal experience, the beaches here combine natural beauty with accessibility, making them perfect for spontaneous day trips or weekend escapes.
In this guide, we’ll explore the best beaches in Dublin, covering their unique features, amenities, activities, and tips for making the most of your visit.
How Dublin Beaches Stand Out
Unlike the stereotypical image of Irish weather, Dublin boasts several beaches that are surprisingly pleasant during the summer months. Many are sandy with gentle slopes, ideal for children or casual swimming, while others feature rugged cliffs or rock formations, perfect for exploring tide pools.
A few reasons Dublin beaches stand out include:
Accessibility: Most beaches are reachable via public transport or short drives. You don’t need to plan an elaborate trip to enjoy the coast.
Variety: Whether it’s a lively beach with cafés and water sports or a quiet, untouched stretch of sand, Dublin has it all.
Scenic Views: From rolling dunes to distant cliffs and city skyline backdrops, the scenery is incredible.
Let’s take a closer look at the top Dublin beaches.
1. Dollymount Strand – Clontarf
Dollymount Strand is arguably the most famous beach in Dublin, stretching over five kilometers along Dublin Bay. Its long, sandy expanse makes it perfect for walking, jogging, or simply soaking up the views.
Features
Length and Sand: With fine, golden sand, it’s ideal for beach games and picnics.
Accessibility: Only a short bus ride from the city center, it’s a favorite for locals and tourists alike.
Activities: Swimming, kite flying, and beach walks are popular. You’ll also spot some wildlife along the sand dunes.
Tips
The tide changes can be dramatic. Make sure to check tide times if planning a long walk along the strand.
Parking can be tricky during peak summer, so arriving early is recommended.
2. Sandymount Strand – Sandymount
Another gem in Dublin Bay is Sandymount Strand. Known for its calm, peaceful atmosphere, it’s a perfect beach for quiet reflection or a casual stroll.
Features
Location: Close to the city but still feels remote, giving a perfect balance of convenience and tranquility.
Activities: Walking, jogging, horse riding, and kite surfing. The beach is also popular with photographers thanks to its iconic views of the Poolbeg Chimneys.
Scenery: The wide expanse of sand during low tide creates a mirror-like effect that makes for stunning photos.
Tips
Bring a jacket, as winds can pick up quickly even on sunny days.
Early mornings offer the most peaceful experience before the walkers and runners arrive.
3. Portmarnock Beach – Velvet Strand
Portmarnock Beach, also called Velvet Strand, is one of Dublin’s largest and most popular beaches. Its smooth sand and shallow waters make it perfect for family outings.
Features
Family-Friendly: Safe waters for kids to paddle and plenty of space for games.
Scenic Walks: The beach is connected to the coastal path, ideal for long walks along Dublin Bay.
Birdwatching: The beach attracts many seabirds, making it great for bird enthusiasts.
Tips
Weekends can get busy, so visiting early is better for a more relaxed experience.
Don’t miss the view of Howth Head in the distance—it’s stunning at sunset.
4. Dollymount Sand Dunes
While technically part of the Clontarf area, the Dollymount Sand Dunes deserve their own mention. They provide a unique experience compared to typical city beaches.
Features
Sand Dunes: Rolling dunes give the area a distinct landscape perfect for photography or sandboarding.
Quiet Escape: Less crowded than the main strand, offering a peaceful retreat from the city buzz.
Nature Trails: Great for short hikes and spotting wildlife like rabbits and various seabirds.
Tips
Watch your step on the dunes—they can be slippery or unstable in some areas.
Early morning light is best for photos; the sand glows beautifully at sunrise.
5. Brittas Bay – South Dublin Coast
A little further afield but worth the trip, Brittas Bay is famous for its long, sandy stretches and stunning coastal views. Technically in County Wicklow, it’s a popular choice for Dublin locals seeking a weekend getaway.
Features
Wide Sands: Perfect for kite flying, football, or simply laying out in the sun.
Water Sports: Surfing and paddleboarding are popular here, thanks to consistent waves.
Nature Trails: Nearby trails allow exploring sand dunes and local flora.
Tips
The beach can be windy, so bring layers and windbreakers.
There are lifeguards during peak summer, making it safer for swimming.
6. Merrion Strand – Dublin South Coast
Merrion Strand is smaller than some other Dublin beaches, but it has its charm and is excellent for a casual day trip.
Features
Quiet Setting: Less crowded than Dollymount or Sandymount, offering more privacy.
Scenic Walks: Great for walking along the promenade and enjoying views of Dublin Bay.
Proximity to City: Just a short bus ride or drive from central Dublin.
Tips
Ideal for a short visit combined with nearby cafés or local attractions.
Bring a camera—sunsets here can be mesmerizing.
7. Killiney Beach – South Dublin
Killiney Beach is a scenic, pebble-stone beach with breathtaking views of Bray Head and the Wicklow Mountains. It’s less about swimming and more about soaking up the scenery.
Features
Scenic Views: Stunning vistas make it perfect for photography or painting.
Calm Atmosphere: Usually quieter than other beaches, making it ideal for reflection or a romantic walk.
Accessibility: A short train ride from Dublin city center.
Tips
The pebbles can be slippery; wearing proper shoes is recommended.
Perfect spot for sunset watching and picnics with a view.
8. Howth Beaches – North Dublin
The picturesque fishing village of Howth is not just about seafood and cliffs—it has some lovely small beaches like Howth Harbour Beach and Baldoyle Bay.
Features
Variety: Rocky coves for exploring marine life, small sandy stretches for lounging.
Activities: Fishing, walking, and coastal hikes are popular.
Views: Overlooking the Irish Sea and Howth Head cliffs.
Tips
Tide tables matter—some areas are accessible only at low tide.
Combine a beach visit with a walk around Howth village and pier.
9. Sutton Strand – North Dublin
Sutton Strand is a quiet beach with a friendly, local vibe. It’s great for leisurely walks and exploring the coastline.
Features
Low Crowds: Less touristy than other Dublin beaches, ideal for a relaxed visit.
Water Sports: Kayaking and paddleboarding are popular here.
Accessibility: Easy to reach via DART or car.
Tips
Bring binoculars if birdwatching—many seabirds nest nearby.
Early mornings and weekdays are the best times to enjoy solitude.
10. Sandymount Promenade – Walking Along the Shore
While technically part of Sandymount, the promenade deserves a separate mention because it offers a unique beach-adjacent experience.
Features
Urban Beach Walk: Combines city convenience with seaside scenery.
Activities: Running, cycling, or walking dogs along the promenade.
Cafés and Restaurants: Several options nearby for refreshments after a beach stroll.
Tips
Great for casual visits, not for swimming.
Sunset walks along the promenade are magical.
What Makes Dublin Beaches Unique
Dublin’s beaches stand out because they combine natural beauty with accessibility. You don’t need to drive hours to enjoy soft sand, scenic cliffs, and amazing coastal trails. From my overall experience, the mixture of bustling beaches, quiet retreats, and stunning views makes Dublin ideal for all types of beach-goers.
Some key points that make them unique:
Proximity to City Life: Most beaches are within a 30–45 minute trip from the city center.
Variety of Landscapes: Sandy shores, rocky coves, dunes, and cliffs are all within easy reach.
Activities for Everyone: From sunbathing to water sports, nature walks, and photography, there’s no shortage of things to do.
Tips for Visiting Dublin Beaches
To make the most of a Dublin beach trip:
Check the Weather: Irish weather is unpredictable, so always bring layers.
Know the Tide Times: Some beaches become dramatically smaller at high tide.
Pack Essentials: Sun cream, towels, snacks, and a windbreaker are must-haves.
Arrive Early: Especially in summer, parking and crowds can be an issue.
Respect Nature: Leave no litter, avoid disturbing wildlife, and stick to marked paths.
Conclusion: Finding the Perfect Beach in Dublin
Whether looking for a family-friendly outing, a romantic stroll, or an adventure along rocky coves, Dublin’s beaches deliver. From Dollymount Strand’s iconic sands to the secluded beauty of Killiney Beach and the adventure-friendly Brittas Bay, each beach has its own charm and appeal.
From my own personal experience, exploring Dublin’s coastline is a must. Each beach has a distinct personality, and the combination of city accessibility and natural beauty makes Dublin a surprisingly great beach destination.
No matter the season, there’s a beach in Dublin waiting to be discovered. Pack your bag, grab a jacket, and enjoy the waves, the sand, and the spectacular views just outside the city limits.
