9 Best Beaches in Dublin: Discover Top Coastal Charms
Dublin
9 Best Beaches in Dublin: Discover Top Coastal Charms
Date: 16 July, 2025
Although Dublin is home to a wide variety of activities, including the zoo, museums, galleries, castles, and more, the greatest thing to do in the Irish capital is to explore the beaches in Dublin and the surrounding areas. A coastal city, Dublin is at the center of beautiful, tranquil, and sandy beaches, from quiet ones like Seapoint Beach to more popular spots like the Forty Foot and Howth Beach. Read on to learn about the top 9 nice beaches in Dublin, get directions using public transport to Dublin coast, and enjoy some expert tips about the local swimming rules and etiquette.
Why Visit Dublin’s Beaches?
Dublin is a true one of a kind. A city with fascinating architecture that takes you back to the 12th and 13th centuries, world-famous Dublin Zoo, and breathtaking coastline, the Irish capital is among the best destinations on earth. What some people may not be aware of is that this amazing place is also home to numerous Dublin beaches. From the golden sands of the Velvet Strand to the literary heritage and community feel of the Forty Foot to the wildlife of Dollymount Beach and Victorian-era beauty of Vico Baths, beaches in Dublin are diverse and incredible.
Start your trip by exploring the charming streets of the Irish capital city with a walking tour in Dublin. Visit iconic museums like the National Museum of Ireland and the Hugh Lane Gallery, and enjoy hearty Irish cuisine and beers at one of the traditional local pubs. After that, choose your favorite beach destination, pack your swimsuit and sunscreen, and embark on the exciting journey of exploring the best beaches in Dublin.
The 9 Best Beaches in Dublin
Traveling to the numerous beaches in Dublin is among the top free things to do in Dublin. In this guide, we will investigate the nine best beaches in Dublin, from quaint secluded spots to world-famous destinations immortalized in literature. We will also explain how to get to Dublin beaches and which transport to use.
1. The Forty Foot
We will begin our guide with the most famous swimming spot in Dublin, the iconic Forty Foot in the south of Dublin Bay. The location has gained international acclaim through Ulysses, a well-known novel by James Joyce. In addition to its literary fame, the Forty Foot offers clear waters, the best views of Dublin coastline, and a great community of swimmers. The spot is so legendary that locals take a dip here every day, even in the winter. Basic changing facilities are available, but most visitors simply change outdoors.
After the rejuvenating swim at the best beach in Dublin, enjoy a cup of steaming tea in the pleasant company of locals. In fact, the literary heritage and the sense of community are what make this place truly special. Don’t forget to stop by the James Joyce Tower and Museum to learn more about the history of this location.
How to get here: The Forty Foot is one of the most popular Dublin DART beach destinations. From the central Connolly station, hop on the DART (Dublin Area Rapid Transit) to Sandycove & Glasthule, from where it’s a relaxing 15-minute Dublin coastal walk until you reach the waters.
2. Seapoint Beach
For a more laid-back beach experience, take a trip to Seapoint Beach in Monkstown. A rather smaller place compared to the majestic Forty Foot, Seapoint is home to the historic Martello Tower, natural beauty, and picturesque views of Howth Head. The beach is also known for its accessibility, allowing inexperienced swimmers to enjoy a leisurely swim.
One of the most cherished beaches in Dublin, Seapoint is perfect for families and casual swimmers who are looking for a secluded spot near Dublin. The waters are clear and calm, the facilities include changing rooms, bathrooms, and showers, and the atmosphere is chill and relaxing. After your day at the beach, visit the nearby town of Monkstown to explore its charming hospitality, boutique shops, and cafes, and discover the country’s maritime history at the National Maritime Museum.
How to get here: similarly, start at the Connolly station and head to the Seapoint stop, after which you will reach the Seapoint beach after a seven-minute stroll.
3. Dollymount Strand
Dollymount Strand is a UNESCO-protected biosphere reserve, offering a unique fusion of sandy beach, diverse wildlife, and several water activities. After a long stroll along the 5-kilometer-long beach, cross the wooden bridge to pay a visit to the Bull Island Nature Reserve. Located at one of the most popular Dublin Bay beaches and home to over 40,000 wild birds, the reserve is a perfect spot for not only birdwatching but also kite- and windsurfing.
The Dollymount Strand’s shallow waters made this spot popular among travelers and locals with young children, who can safely enjoy their beach time. Among the most beloved nice beaches in Dublin, it’s surrounded by dunes that act as a natural barrier between the city noise and the relaxing sea waves. The nearby St. Anne's Park is another destination full of intoxicating rose gardens, playgrounds, and serene hiking trails.
How to get here: from Dublin city center, head to the Talbot Street bus station, hop on the bus 130, and take a 20-minute ride to the Bull Island, stop 1752 station. From here, it’s a 15-minute walk along the beach.
4. Portrane Beach
Up in the northern part of Dublin County lies the two-kilometer-long Portrane Beach, a secluded and peaceful spot. Located far from civilization, the beach offers tranquil nature unspoiled by tourism and commercialization. This piece of land is isolated by dunes, providing a perfect setting for surfing and bodyboarding, as well as a relaxing picnic on the sandy beach. Even on the busiest days of the summer, this charming beach location remains relatively empty, offering a much-needed retreat from Dublin’s hustle and bustle.
Adjacent to the beach is a small cove called Tower Bay and the Portraine Golf Club, with incredible views of the dramatic Irish cliffs. After a day enjoying the serene and quiet Portrane Beach, stop by the nearby village to indulge in a pint of ale in a local pub and browse the local shops for souvenirs and trinkets.
How to get here: Portrane Beach is a bit further away compared to its counterparts and takes about an hour. Start at the Gardiner Street Lw bus station and hop on the bus 33 to the Broad Meadow Bridge station. From there, change to the 33B bus directly to Portrane.
5. Vico Baths
If you don’t mind a hike down the steps to the Vico Baths, this isolated spot boasts crystal clear water, breathtaking scenery, and adventurous experiences. One of the best beaches near Dublin, it’s not for everyone, so travelers with young children or unseasoned swimmers should stay away. The journey to the Vico Baths is also quite difficult and challenging, but you will be rewarded with the serene beauty that will remind you of the Mediterranean Sea.
Just a short walk away is the Killiney Hill Park with scenic views of Dublin Bay, expansive hiking trails, and gorgeous flora. When you get hungry, take a trip to the neighboring Dalkey village for a delicious dinner at a local restaurant.
How to get here: hop on the DART, which will take you all the way to the Dalkey station. From here, embark on a picturesque walk through the village until you reach the waters of Dublin Bay.
6. Donabate Beach
Among the best North Dublin beaches, the Donabate Beach stretches over two kilometers and offers free parking, bathrooms, showers, and other basic amenities. Nestled between a sky-blue sea, beautiful dunes, and a sandy beach, Donabate Beach is an excellent retreat. This sunny location is known for great swimming conditions, with dunes carefully sheltering the spot from the wind. On top of that, Donabate Beach also hosts lifeguards who are on duty in the months of summer.
In the vicinity, you can explore Newbridge House and Farm, a fascinating Georgian palace with beautiful gardens and adorable farm animals. Established in 1737, Newbridge House is home to a museum depicting life in Georgian towns. On your way home, make a stop at Donabate village to grab a delectable homemade dinner at one of the local pubs or restaurants.
How to get here: the route is similar to the one to Portrane: hop on the bus 33 from Gardiner Street Lwr station and change at the Broad Meadow Bridge to continue with the bus 33B that’ll take you to Seaview, stop 7204. After that, you’ll have to embark on a 30-minute scenic hike to Donabate Beach.
7. Skerries Beach
One of the most undervalued beaches in Dublin, Skerries Beach comprises several beautiful stretches of sand amid the historic fishing town. The most notable beaches include Red Island Beach with picturesque views, South Strand with excellent swimming conditions, and adventurous spots like The Springers and The Captains. In June, this quiet area comes to life during the annual Skerries Traditional Music Festival. This event celebrates the best traditional musicians from all over the country, offering an opportunity to enjoy remarkable Irish folk tunes.
In addition to the gorgeous beach, Skerries is a working fishing port that holds historic significance. The area’s industrial past, along with the Ardgillan Castle and Demesne, make it a fascinating day trip by train from Dublin. Visit the Skerries Mills to explore the restored windmills, watermill, and museum.
How to get here: the furthest beach from Dublin in our guide, a trip to Skerries will take about an hour by bus 33 until the Skerries station. Although the journey is lengthy, the bus will take you directly to the beach so you can immediately jump into the water.
8. Howth Beach
Located near the cliffs of Howth Head, Howth Beach is home to three main spots: Balscadden Beach, Red Rock, and Claremont Beach. Balscadden Beach is considered the best beach in Dublin by tourists, a beautiful sandy beach with clear waters, great facilities, and a secluded feel. Among the best beaches near Dublin city center, Claremont Beach is also very beloved by locals and tourists, while Red Rock is a popular destination for those who don’t mind a short hike.
Even on a colder day, a Howth day trip from Dublin is worth your time. With its stunning cliff walks, the mesmerizing vistas of the Wicklow Mountains and Mourne Mountains, and the towering majesty of Howth Castle, this spot is a sight to behold. Stop by the National Transport Museum to dive into Ireland’s transport history and heritage.
How to get here: the journey to Howth Beach is quite straightforward: hop on the DART from Connolly station to Howth station and you’re right there.
9. Malahide Beach
Another isolated gem is Malahide Beach, widely referred to as the Velvet Strand. An alluring five-kilometer stretch of golden sand, Malahide Beach provides a quiet swimming experience. You can gradually descend the beach until you reach the refreshing waters, which is ideal for younger kids and inexperienced swimmers. While you’re relaxing on this sandy beach in Dublin, you can marvel at the stunning views of Lambay Island, Ireland’s Eye, and the crystal-clear sea.
Take a short walk to reach the nearby Malahide Castle and Gardens, dating back to the 12th century. Full of opulent decor and priceless art collections, the castle is the perfect detour on your way to Malahide village. Here, you can shop at local boutiques, immerse yourself in the local lifestyle, and enjoy a hearty dinner after a tiring day of swimming and hiking.
How to get here: head to the Busáras station located in the city center and take the H2 bus to the Malahide, Coast Road station. The journey takes roughly 40 minutes, after which it’s a three-minute walk to reach the beach.
Tips for Visiting Dublin’s Beaches
Finally, let’s investigate some valuable tips that’ll help you navigate the beach experience and culture in Dublin.
Weather Considerations
The Dublin climate is mild and pleasant yet highly unpredictable. Even in the summer when temperatures reach 20°C, the weather can let you down with rainy and windy conditions. Water temperatures in months between June and September usually don’t exceed 15°C to 18°C, so pack a wetsuit if you find these numbers concerning. In the spring and fall, the outside temperatures go down to 13°C to 15°C, which is the perfect climate for a hike.
Winter is quite a bit colder, about 3°C to 8°C, however, locals go to the Forty Foot or Howth Beach for a morning dip despite the freezing waters. If it’s too extreme for you, just pack a picnic and enjoy a day of scenic beauty, calming waters, and breathtaking views. Winter months also transform the city of Dublin into a Christmas fairytale, brimming with Christmas markets, decorations, and entoxicating scents of mulled wine.
Safety and Tide Information
The most important tip regarding tides you need to learn is the 48-hour rule. It suggests avoiding swimming 48 hours after a heavy rain due to a heightened risk of pollution. Additionally, choose designated swimming spots, ideally with lifeguards, especially if you’re traveling with small children or unseasoned swimmers. Also, check current tide tables online to ensure the best conditions for your Dublin seaside day trip, as well as follow the local news to avoid contaminated spots.
Best Times of Day to Visit for Views or Quiet
If you’re looking for a tranquil and peaceful trip, travel in the early hours, from 6 am to 9 am. At these hours, the beaches are relatively empty, the views of the sunrise are magical, and the waters are calm and clear. In the late afternoon, the beaches become more and more crowded, offering a more social and community-led outing. Especially for photography enthusiasts, arriving at the beach in the evening will offer you the mesmerizing golden hour light that makes everything look more beautiful and mysterious.
Conclusion
The city of Dublin is a unique blend of natural beauty and urban atmosphere. Inside the bounds of the city, you can explore the numerous brunch places in Dublin, marvel at the gorgeous architecture that dates back centuries, and visit the countless museums and galleries. But once you get on a bus or DART, you will be immediately transported into a magical wonderland full of golden sands, dramatic cliffs, and refreshing sea.
