Exploration
8 of the best beaches in Ireland
Want to feel the sand between your toes? Here are 8 of our favourite beaches in Ireland.
Summer is well and truly here – so what better time to head to the beach? Ireland lends itself particularly well to those wanting to feel the sand between their toes. With a whopping 900 miles of coastline, you’ll be spoilt for choice to pick your favourite stretch of sand in Ireland. Whether you’re into sea swimming, surfing or simply drinking in some epic views, there’s something to suit every type of beachgoer.
We’ve found some of our favourite stretches of sand around the country, including quiet coves, remote islands, and shorelines located near city centres for a quick fix or coastal calm away from the stresses of urban life. From County Kerry to Dublin, here are some of Ireland’s best beaches to explore now.
1. Brandon Bay, Co. Kerry
One of Ireland’s best windsurfing locations, this is where Red Bull Storm Chase was held earlier this year. The bay frequently sees tons of wind and massive waves – but you’ll have to face the brutally cold sea temperatures, too. There are windsurfing schools dotted along the beach catering to all levels. Beginners head to the calmer waters of Sandy Bay, while Brandon Bay itself is best for advanced wave sailing.
Best for: Windsurfing
2. Magheraroarty Beach, Co. Donegal
Another Red Bull Storm Chase location, this long sweep of golden sand transforms into a windsurfer’s paradise when conditions are right. The almost-pink sand is backed by grassy dunes and you can see the nearby islands of Inishbofin, Tory and the headland of Horn Head. Catch the foot passenger ferry to Tory Island for the day – it’s Ireland’s most remote inhabited island and a breeding site for the rare corn crake bird.
Best for: Island hopping
3. Inchydoney, Co. Cork
It’s easy to see why people call this Ireland’s most beautiful beach. A small island off West Cork, a few miles from Clonakilty, it’s connected to the mainland by two causeways and features silver sand, turquoise water and grassy dunes. With its gently shelving, shallow water, the Blue Flag beach is popular in summer so get there early to beat the crowds. The eastern end is usually quieter.
Best for: Epic scenery
4. Murlough Beach, Co. Down
Murlough became Ireland’s first nature reserve in 1967 when the National Trust took over its management. The reserve comprises 697 acres of sand dunes fronted by a long swathe of sand wedged between Dundrum Bay and the Mourne Mountains. The unique mix of beach, dunes and mountains make it perfect for walking, bird watching and nature spotting. It’s home to 600 species of butterflies and moths, plus wintering wildfowl and waders. It is also a haul-out site for Common and Grey seals – so keep your eyes peeled.
Best for: Wildlife
5. Seapoint, Dublin
Overlooked by grand homes, a promenade and the Martello tower written about by James Joyce, this bathing spot has a period feel to it. It’s been used by generations of Dubliners for swimming, and the hardcore regulars take a bracing dip here even in the coldest months. Water quality is often rated "excellent", and there are changing cubicles and steps into the chilly briny.
Best for: Sea swimming
6. Baginbun Beach, Feathard, Co Wexford
Located around a 15-minute drive from Hook Head in Co Wexford, this hidden gem is accessed via a tiny road just outside Feathard. The beach is sheltered from the elements thanks to the grassy cliffs that enclose the small cove. You can be pretty much guaranteed to have this special spot all to yourselves so you can kick back, watch the sun go down and enjoy the rugged beauty of the Hook peninsula in blissful peace and quiet from the comfort of your tent.
Best for: Wild camping
7. Glassilaun Connemara, Co. Galway
This is a great spot for anyone who wants to forage for sea urchins and seaweed. The impressive scar of white sand, between Renvyle and Killary Fjord, has super-clean water and is a perfect place to cast for fish including plaice. When you’ve made your catch, grab your snorkel or explore the sand dunes on foot – and don’t forget to look up at the awesome backdrop in the shape of Mweelrea mountain.
Best for: Foraging and fishing
8. Whiterocks Beach, Co. Antrim
Named after the limestone cliffs that dominate the beach, Whiterocks is a great place for surfing and body boarding. But there’s plenty in store for anyone into their geology, too. The white cliff faces, dotted with caves and arches, have been shaped over thousands of years by the sea. Check out the landmark headlands, like the wishing Arch, Elephant Rock and Lion’s Paw.
Best for: Awesome geology
