Sun’s out, buns out. With the summer weather right around the corner, it’s time to channel our inner beach bums and head to some of Ireland’s sandiest sanctuaries. From superb surfing spots to wonderful waters to plunge into and romantic strolls on the coast, be sure to seas the opportunity and check out our roundup of the most gorgeous beaches near Dublin.
Donabate Beach
Distance from Dublin city centre: 37 minutes by car
Flaunting beautiful views of landmarks such as Lambay Island and Malahide Estuary, Donabate Beach is ideal for a romantic stroll. Spanning 2.5km long, the area has some rocky bits as well as a sandy dune to explore. If you want to spend a few days here, we recommend retreating to Shoreline Hotel, which houses an eye-catching brassiere and bar. When the sun comes out, the haunt also hosts summer BBQs on the outdoor terrace.
Drinks with a view? They don't get better than this stunner.
Dollymount Strand Beach
Distance from Dublin city centre: 25 minutes by car
For the best beaches in Ireland, Dollymount Strand is a brilliant shout. Situated on Bull Island and in Clontarf, the beach has two nearby golf courses for those looking to putt. Want to do something different? From paddle boarding to kite surfing and sightseeing, there’s plenty to keep you entertained (besides just building sandcastles). After a day out, grab a pint at BrewDog Outpost, which is just a 24-minute drive.
Managed to nab a table at BrewDog after a day out? You lucky son of a beach.
Bray Beach
Distance from Dublin city centre: 1 hour by car
Tired of the hustle and bustle of the city? Bray Beach is your answer. One of the best beaches in Dublin for a walk, this getaway is a 10-minute stroll from Bray Main Street and just a stone's throw from the train station. Covered in pebbles and sand, this seaside stunner is ideal for a romantic walk as you follow the coastline from Bray Head to Greystones. Getting a bit peckish? Its green plot is reserved for restaurants and ice cream shops - Gino's Gelato is a must for the sweet-toothed.
One of Dublin's beaches to see, Bray is the place to sea life's beauty.
Sandymount Beach
Distance from Dublin city centre: 12 minutes by car
Coming up trumps on our list of beaches in Dublin, this next entry is quite a beaut. Perfect for leisure walks with your other half, Sandymount Beach provides gorgeous views of landmarks such as Poolbeg Lighthouse and Dun Laoghaire. It's also neighbouring Ballsbridge, which is home to several restaurants, bars and pubs. Drive 10 minutes and settle into Richard Corrigan's eatery, The Park Cafe, as you delve into oysters at the seafood counter.
Beachside views and a seafood bar? Talk about the ultimate summer affair.
Burrow Beach
Distance from Dublin city centre: 35 minutes by car
Searching for the prettiest beach in Ireland? Burrow Beach is a stunner with smooth sand and eye-catching coastal views of Dublin. If you’re coming from Sutton Cross train station, get your caffeine fix at Sam’s Coffee House. A visit here simply wouldn't be complete without a quick dip in its water. With a lifeguard on standby during the summer months, it’s one of the best beaches in Dublin for swimming.
Otherwise known as Sutton Beach, Burrow Beach in Dublin is one of the best around.
Portmarnock Beach
Distance from Dublin city centre: 45 minutes by car
For beaches less than 20km from Dublin, this relaxing retreat has it all. Otherwise known as Velvet Strand, Portmarnock Beach boasts sand dunes stretching over five miles. Along with a Championship golf course nearby, there are plenty of other activities to do on this large landscape, from kite surfing to swimming in its crystal-clear waters. Plus, it's just a 20-minute drive from Aqua Restaurant, where you can munch on seared scallops.
After your evening at the sandy beaches of Portmarnock, head to Aqua Restaurant for a seafood feast.
Killiney Beach
Distance from Dublin city centre: 50 minutes by car
If you’re on the hunt for beaches within an hour of Dublin, Killiney Beach is just 16 km south of the city centre. This beachside destination brings tonnes of things to do, whether you fancy an ice cream cone while moseying by the water or taking a dip in the Irish Sea. Still feeling adventurous? Go up north to Sorrento Park for a hike or check out one of Dublin’s hidden gems, The Vico Baths, so you can snap some very Instagrammable pics.
One of the best coasts near Dublin? Killiney Beach is quite the seaside retreat.
Like these? Continue the summer fun and check out our guide to outdoor dining and drinking in Dublin. Stay in the know with our future newsletters here.
