When most people think of Ireland, they see ancient castles, beautiful pastoral landscapes, and herds of wandering sheep. But there’s more to Ireland than that. Ireland’s coastline is a lush, 6200km-long (3852 miles) necklace of gorgeous sites where the land meets the sea that is home to a variety of wildlife. However, despite the fact that Ireland is not recognized for having the warmest or sunniest weather, its greatest beaches are so beautiful that you will not mind spending a whole day frolicking on the coast even when it is raining.
The best beaches in Ireland have something to offer everyone, from soft, tan sand to rough coral grounds. Even if you have to wear a wetsuit to enjoy the surf, the best beaches in Ireland have something to offer everyone.
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Brittas Bay Beach
Brittas Bay beach, on the south coast of Wicklow County, is considered to be the jewel in the crown. It is well-known for its smooth, light beige sand surface that is free of impurities.
Brittas Bay has been awarded the EU Blue Flag for a record-breaking five years in a row. Swimming, sailing, kitesurfing, hiking, and horseback riding are all popular activities on the island. The R750 regional road, which runs parallel to the beach direction and provides access, is available for business.
Brittas Bay is about 3.2 kilometers long. You may discover a system of sand dunes on this beach, which is home to many intriguing members of the local species, if you spend time exploring it.
During the swimming season, a rescue team is stationed at Brittas Bay Beach for your protection. There are public restrooms and parking spaces available on the beach. Additionally, the European Golf Course and a surf school that lends out equipment for water sports can be found at British Bay.
Inchydoney Beach
This beach in southern Ireland is one of the island’s most beautiful features. The smooth, white sand, which is free of stones and rubbish, is ideal for a lengthy barefoot stroll in the sun. Choose a time for your walk that coincides with low tide, when you will be able to travel even farther from shore into the crystal-clear ocean.
One of Ireland’s “Blue Flag” beaches, it has been accredited by the Foundation for Environmental Education for its efforts to raise awareness about environmental issues and promote sustainable development. This also implies that it is a scenic place with clean and safe water and sand, as well as a natural attraction.
Are you a surfer at heart?
The waves at this great beach in Cork are perfect for both novices and more experienced surfers, making it an excellent choice for both. Because there are so many lifeguards on duty throughout the peak season, this is a great beach for families in Ireland, especially during the summer months.
Rossbeigh Beach
Going on a tour of Ireland without stopping at the Ring of Kerry is like to leaving Wimbledon before the tennis tournament begins. Massive hills, a verdant farmland, and lush mountains surround the nation, leaving travelers in awe of the natural splendor on display.
Only two miles separate the little community of Glenbeigh from Rossbeigh beach, which is considered to be one of the most beautiful sites to visit on the Ring of Kerry’s Ring of Kerry.
Rossbeigh is a Killarney beach that is located on the Iveragh Peninsula (next to the Dingle Peninsula, which has Inch Beach). It is commonly referred to as a Killarney beach because of its location on the Iveragh Peninsula. The reason is that Killarney is just 35 kilometers away, making it a perfect destination to spend the night if you’re passing through (or two or three).
Rossbeigh Beach, another Blue Flag beach, offers a children’s playground, beautiful sand, and breathtaking views of the mountains and the sea. During the summer months, there are lifeguards on duty, which makes this an ideal beach for families with little children.
Streedagh Beach
Streedagh Strand, located in County Sligo, welcomes tourists with more than three kilometers of silky, smooth golden sand. This stunning beach, which is in the form of a horseshoe, is one of the finest in Ireland for couples and families. It is surrounded by sand dunes, which provide breathtaking vistas, and it is located in a protected location, which makes it an excellent swimming area in the summer.
While some individuals are still able to find adequate waves to surf, the tranquil bay is a welcoming spot for families to bring their children to play in safety.
Position yourself high on sand dunes for the greatest view of Streedagh Strand. It may be possible to see all the way to the towering mountains of Donegal if the sky is clear on a clear day.
Curracloe beach
Curracloe Beach, located in the county of Wexford, is one of the most well-known beaches in Ireland. It is about 2 kilometers away from the hamlet of the same name, where it is situated. Curracloe is well-known for its soft, gold-colored sand, which differentiates it from the majority of the rocky beaches found around the island of Ireland.
During the summer months, life on the beach is rather crowded, as many sunbathers come to enjoy the natural beauty of the beach and to sun themselves. Because Curracloe’s waters are ideal for swimming, the town’s region has been designated as Blue Flag territory.
Bars, hotels, and stores may be found in the surrounding Curracloe hamlet. More alternatives for amusement and leisure may be found in the county capital of Wexford.
Inch Beach
When visiting Ireland’s nicest beaches, be sure to stop at Inch Beach, which is located along the Dingle Peninsula, southwest of the country’s capital, Cork. Surfers return to shore as crashing waves lap into the golden sand of this finger-shaped peninsula’s golden sand beach. Swimming is a pleasure at this location (albeit a cold one). Where else can you kick your way to the top of a mountain?
Keep an eye on the smaller ones since the currents and tides are strong in this area. Additionally, there is a lot of wind, so you may want to leave that beach umbrella in the vehicle. It, too, is designated as a Blue Flag beach. Inch Beach is around 50 minutes away from some of the most popular attractions in Killarney. Killarney is often referred to as “the beach” by locals.
Make sure you come around low tide to get the best view possible. A select few will be able to glimpse the sky reflected on freshly exposed beach sand below them.
Dog’s Bay
With its horseshoe-shaped design, this Galway beach is a must-see for anybody who enjoys the sea. Dog’s Bay is located next to Guerteen Bay, which is an equally stunning beach located right off the main road to Clifden. Roundstone village is just a few minutes away by car or by foot, depending on your preference.
Take a careful look at the sand. While other beaches on our list of the greatest beaches in Ireland are created by rocks, the sand at Dog’s Bay is composed of tiny shells from foraminifera (a kind of marine organism), resulting in a serenely soft and white sand that is serenely soft and white.
Portmarnock Beach
Are you looking for the greatest beaches in the vicinity of Dublin? Look no farther than the Velvet Strand, which is the name given to a collection of beaches that are within a short distance from the bustling metropolis. Portmarnock Beach, located in the town of Portmarnock, is considered to be one of the greatest in Ireland. This sandy area, which is less than half an hour from the nation’s capital, provides 4.8 kilometers of beachfront to discover and enjoy.
There is a lengthy, paved walk leading behind Portmarnock Beach, as well as miles of spectacular sand dunes, which are perfect for young (or large) kids and dogs to climb. It is right; you read that properly. You will be hard pushed to find a moment when you will not see a four-legged buddy enjoying a beautiful stroll by the water on this beach, which is pet-friendly.
Tramore Beach
With its picturesque setting above steep hills, the charming resort town of Tramore dips precipitously onto Tramore Beach, the area’s most popular dune-backed attraction. This picturesque, five-kilometer length of beach has won several Blue Flag honors, and it is quite popular, particularly during the summer months when the temperatures are higher. If you plan to come on a particularly beautiful day, be prepared to compete for a position on the sand.
Swimming, fishing, sailing, kayaking, and surfing are all popular pastimes, as is kite surfing on windy days. Kite surfing is also popular on calm days.
During the peak summer season, lifeguards are on duty to keep an eye on the water and the beach. At this lovely location on Ireland’s southeast coast, the rugged cliffs give spectacular views of Tramore Bay and the surrounding countryside.
Lahinch Beach
The little hamlet of Lahinch, Ireland, is a real resort town that caters to people who are in full vacation mode. The town’s beach, which is about one mile long and made of golden sand, is located at the head of Liscannor Bay. The reason most people come to this location, though, is because of the incredible waves.
It is because of this horseshoe form that the Atlantic is broken, resulting in excellent waves for surfing aficionados. While surfing has risen to become the most popular activity at this beach, surfers aren’t the only ones who enjoy this popular holiday destination-canoers, sailors, swimmers, and divers are all eager to get their feet wet in the warm waters.
When you get tired of lounging on the beach, there’s enough to keep you entertained. Do you like fishing?
Rent a boat and go out into the vast wide open with your rod and equipment.
Bundoran beach
Boundoran is a calm and serene sandy beach in Donegal County, Ireland, located in the northwest of the country. During the summer months, the resort attracts a large number of visitors and residents alike. Beaches such as Bundoran are the most well-known, busy, and well-liked in the area.
Bundoran obtains the Blue Flag award on a yearly basis. The symbol signifies that the coastline is safe, that it is ecologically clean, and that it is safe to visit with children. The beach is shallow, the service is excellent, and the area is equipped with all of the essential infrastructure to ensure that visitors have a good stay.
Numerous surfing schools are located in the southern part of the county, in the close town of Rossnowlagh, and the surrounding coastal regions provide ideal conditions for the practice of this water activity.
Ample parking is available for automobiles along the seaside, and a variety of tours are offered by local tourism groups, including walking tours and other excursions. On the seaside, you’ll find ice cream shops, boutiques, cafés, and restaurants to enjoy.
Balbriggan Beach
Balbriggan is a picturesque beach on the shores of the Irish Sea, not far from Dublin in the country’s south-east, and it is a popular destination for tourists.
The sea is very clear, and the water is completely translucent. Balbriggan is the most well-known tourist destination in this area. The shoreline is sandy, broad, and long, and it is surrounded by water. The terrain and landscapes are breathtakingly stunning and magnificent in their grandeur. Beyond the beautiful coastline, there are a variety of other attractions such as natural attractions such as caverns and mountains as well as rocks and cliffs. There are also museums and castles as well as natural leisure areas and vineyards.
Tourists from all over the globe come to this location to take part in ecotourism activities, fish in the sea, and go bird hunting with a camera, among other things.
Keem Beach
Many people do not want you to know about this hidden gem since it contains valuable information. So, keep it to yourself. You’ll have to keep this a secret between the two of us. Keem Bay is located on Achill Island, the biggest of the Irish Isles, off the northwest coast of Ireland and is a popular tourist destination. This location can only be reached by crossing the Michael Davitt Bridge, which connects the communities of Gob a Choire and Poll Raithn.
Keem Bay, one of the island’s most stunning beaches, is pristine and offers tourists an unrivaled perspective of the surrounding landscape. It is surrounded by stunning cliffs on three sides.
Keem Bay is also a popular destination for water sports enthusiasts. Swimming, kayaking, surfing, and windsurfing are popular activities for visitors. The bay, which was formerly a sanctuary for shark fishing, is now a fantastic snorkeling location.
Those interested in hiking will not want to miss the mile-long route that starts here and winds its way along the cliffs of Benmore towards Achill Head.
Dunmore East
Dunmore East is a beachfront in the same-named hamlet in the south of Ireland’s Munster Province, in the county of Waterford. It is located in the county of Waterford. Located in a calm, serene area surrounded by several bays, the most renowned and popular of which being Ladies Cove, this location is ideal for relaxing. Transparent sea, sandy beach, and pure air characterize this paradise island paradise.
During the summer peak season, the water temperature may reach a high of +19 degrees Celsius. At this time of year, thousands of residents and visitors go to the adjacent islands. Surfers and divers go to this beach in large numbers. The best season to go diving is from the beginning of spring until the middle of October, or until the temperature of the coastal waters drops to +10 degrees Celsius, whichever comes first. You can see for 15 meters ahead of you underwater.
Banna Strand
Banna Strand, another Blue Flag beach, is bordered by sand dunes that rise to a height of 40 feet. There are excellent opportunities for surfing and windsurfing, and the shallow seas make it a favorite holiday destination for families with young children. When the tide is out, you’ll be able to stroll for kilometers through the undulating hills that surround you.
This is an excellent place to stop for a rest when traveling along the Wild Atlantic Way. Make sure to bring a picnic lunch since there aren’t many businesses or facilities on the island.
Tralee is a short 11-kilometer drive away. It is the county’s main town and is home to nice hotels as well as a plethora of stores and restaurants.
Strandhill beach
Strandhill is a famous beach destination for both residents and visitors alike, and it is an excellent location for taking lessons in anything from bodyboarding to surfing and other water sports. It is just around eight kilometers from Sligo, which is the second-largest city in western Ireland and the county seat.
Do you want to go out on the sea a little further? Paddle about in a kayak and see renowned sights and breathtaking landscapes. Are you tired of the sand? In the Strandhill Golf Club, you may test your skills at the game of golf.
Every Sunday (from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.), the Strandhill People’s Market is held at Hangar 1 of Sligo International Airport. Are you looking for handcrafted jewelry?
In addition to baked foods and fresh veggies, you’ll discover live music and a wide variety of handmade products at this location.
Because the currents are strong in this area, swimming should only be attempted by individuals who are large and strong enough to combat them.
Silver Strand Beach
The idea of discovering paradise on a Donegal beach would have seemed unbelievable.
This crescent-shaped wonder unfolds to reveal crystal-clear blue water that urges you to dive right in and relax. There are spectacular cliffs and exquisite waterfalls on both sides of the river, which might help you reset your inner stress button.
Silver Strand is a popular swimming spot for families since it is safe and shallow. Those with little children will appreciate the fact that throughout the summer months, lifeguards will be on duty to keep an eye on them.
Silver Strand, which is located in the little settlement of Malin Beg, may be somewhat deserted during the off-season. Consequently, if you’re looking for an exquisite, romantic beach holiday, consider going around April or May. Despite the fact that it’s cold, you’re more likely to have this immaculate haven all to yourself.
Coumeenoole Beach
The Dingle peninsula is home to a plethora of beautiful beaches. Coumeenoole, located on Slea Head Drive near Dingle, is one of these places. When the turquoise ocean rushes on the golden beach on a bright day, it looks to be tropical in appearance. Low tide is the greatest time to come since there will be more beach to explore and you will have the opportunity to get up up and personal with the huge jagged cliffs.
This beach is popular with kitesurfers and windsurfers, so although you won’t have to contend with large crowds at this more private beach, you won’t be alone either.
Derrynane Beach
Fortunately for us, it seems that shelters are a thing in Ireland. Derrynane Beach, another must-see on your tour of the Ring of Kerry, is surrounded by big hills and grassy cliffs, making it a perfect spot for a relaxing day at the beach. Azure ocean meets pristine, white sand for sandcastle building on a beach that is both beautiful and relaxing. The beach is littered with huge boulders, which serve as nature’s way of luring children to come and play.
Families will also like the fact that the water is quite tranquil, making swimming more accessible to children. This is without a doubt one of the greatest family-friendly beaches in Ireland.
Caherdaniel is a small community located around three kilometers to the northwest of the main town. It is home to O’Carroll’s Cove, a long-running restaurant that specializes in fresh seafood and has spectacular views of the ocean.
Fanore Beach
Fanore Beach is located in the Burren, a remote region characterized by its spectacular limestone formations and situated along the Wild Atlantic Way. The Burren is also known for its many ring forts, caverns, and castles, all of which can be found in the area.
Fanore Beach offers visitors a welcome respite from the harshness of the surrounding countryside. The beach, which is awash in gold and black colours, is ideal for long, leisurely stroll across the sand. Although the waves are large, they are not too tough for novices to have a pleasant but not too challenging ride.
Ballymastocker Beach
In the glittering bay of the same name, the beach at Ballymastocker Bay is a popular tourist destination. This vast tan beach, which stretches along the west bank of Lough Swilly on the Fanad Peninsula, has received several honors for its natural beauty.
The backdrop, which is surrounded by lush, green hills and framed by lovely blue seas, is just breathtaking. Another advantage is the smooth sand, which makes it simple to spend the day at the beach.
It’s easy to understand why this beach, which is also known as Portsalon Beach (because to its location near the little community of Portsalon), is considered to be one of Ireland’s greatest beaches. During the summer months, you can anticipate immaculate conditions at this Blue Flag beach, as well as the presence of lifeguards on duty.
Carrickfinn Beach
The landing at Donegal Airport has been named one of the most picturesque in the world, bringing the county another more international acclaim. This is no surprise given the breathtaking vistas of Carrickfinn Beach and Gweedore Bay that greet passengers upon arrival. A visit to Carrickfinn is a must-do if you want to enjoy the crystal blue seas and lovely white beaches of the island. Take a leisurely walk across the grasslands to see the spectacular displays of wildflowers that bloom throughout the spring and summer, and then relax in the refreshing waters of the pool.
If you have time to spare, try your hand at quick kayaking along the shore, and in the evening, have a fantastic supper at a nearby restaurant.
The greatest time to explore Ireland’s beaches is during the summer.
The greatest time to explore Ireland’s beaches is during the summer months. The ideal time to visit Ireland’s greatest beaches is between May and September, when the air is warmer and the sun is more likely to shine. While they are lovely all year round, visitors looking to get the most out of their vacation should go when the weather is warmer and the sun is more likely to shine. As a result, the months of June, July, and August are your best choices for a more pleasant weather situation.
When is the greatest time to go swimming on the beaches of Ireland?
Swimming on Ireland’s beaches is most enjoyable during the summer months. Keep in mind, though, that the Irish definition of “warm waters” would most certainly not correspond to the tropical beach vacation you had in mind.
Swimming at an Irish beach is most pleasant in the summer, when water temperatures vary from an average of 7 degrees Celsius (in January) to 15 degrees Celsius (in August). Winter swimming is not recommended in Irish beaches. Having said that, 15 degrees isn’t quite warm enough to prevent goose bumps, so you may want to bring a wet suit along for the ride.