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.
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 County Dublin, 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 and Teddy's are a must for the sweet-toothed.
One of Dublin's beaches to see, Bray is the place to sea life's beauty.
Dollymount Strand Beach
Distance from Dublin city centre: 25 minutes by car
For County Dublin beaches, 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). The island also fronts a beautiful nature reserve and a number of places to eat and drink, including Max’s Burgers, which is just a 7-minute drive.
Managed to nab a table at Max's after a day out? You lucky son of a beach.
Burrow Beach
Distance from Dublin city centre: 35 minutes by car
Searching for the prettiest beach in Ireland? Burrow Beach is quite the stunner with smooth sand and gorgeous coastal views of Dublin. If you’re coming from Sutton Cross train station, get your caffeine fix at Sam’s Coffee House. Or tottle over to Howth's Harbour so you can wolf down some fish n' chips. 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 is one of Dublin's best beaches.
Portmarnock Beach
Distance from Dublin city centre: 45 minutes by car
For gorgeous beaches less than 20km from Dublin, this relaxing retreat is a real winner. 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 while tipping back some refreshing cocktails.
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.
