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
Address: Donabate Village, Balcarrick, Donabate, Co. Dublin
Distance from Dublin city centre: 37 minutes by car
Flaunting beautiful views of landmarks such as Lambay Island and Malahide Estuary, Donabate Beach, aka Balcarrick Beach, is ideal for a romantic stroll with nothing but the relaxing sound of waves surrounding you. Spanning 2.5km long, this serene getaway has some rocky bits as well as a sandy dune to explore nearby. The views are seriously stunning, with the Irish Sea and Dublin Bay showing off their best sides.
Looking for beaches near Dublin? They don't get any better than this stunner.
Dollymount Strand Beach
Address: Bull Island, Clontarf East, Dollymount, Co. Dublin
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, this seaside spot has two nearby golf courses for those looking to putt. In the mood for something a lil' different than just beach bumming? From paddle boarding to kite surfing and sightseeing, there’s plenty to keep you entertained (besides just building sandcastles). After a fun-filled day out, grab a pint and a bite at BrewDog Outpost, which is just a 24-minute drive away.
Managed to nab a table at BrewDog after a day out? You lucky son of a beach.
Bray Beach
Address: Bray, Co. Wicklow
Distance from Dublin city centre: 1 hour by car
Tired of the hustle and bustle of the city? Bray Beach is the answer to all your coastal prayers. One of the best from our list of beaches in 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 relaxing 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 all around to satisfy any foodie cravings.
A must-visit beach, Bray is the place to sea life's beauty.
Sandymount Beach
Address: Strand Road, Co. Dublin
Distance from Dublin city centre: 12 minutes by car
Coming up trumps on our guide to Dublin Ireland beaches, this next entry is quite a stunner. Perfect for leisure walks with your other half, Sandymount Beach provides gorgeous views of landmarks such as Poolbeg Lighthouse and Dun Laoghaire. Head down to wander along the promenade all the way to the Merrion Gates and soak up those coastal vibes. It's also neighbouring Ballsbridge, which is home to several restaurants, bars and pubs.
Beachside views and a seafood bar? Talk about the ultimate summer affair.
Burrow Beach
Address: 4, Strand Court, 19A Burrow Rd, Burrow, Dublin 13
Distance from Dublin city centre: 35 minutes by car
Searching for the prettiest beach in Ireland? Burrow Beach is a beauty with smooth sand and eye-catching coastal views of Dublin. Perched on the stretch of land that connects Howth Head to the mainland, this airy spot boasts a vast spread of sand, so there's plenty of room for everyone to clam bake without feeling too crowded. 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 is one of the best around.
Portmarnock Beach
Address: Strand Road, Carrickhill, Portmarnock, Co. Dublin
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 as well as stunning sights of Lambay Island, Ireland's Eye, and Howth Head. 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.
For a relaxing walk near the Portmarnock, take a leisurely stroll along the beach trail leading to Malahide.
Killiney Beach
Address: Hackettsland, Dublin
Distance from Dublin city centre: 50 minutes by car
A coastline beauty like no other, Killiney Beach is located just 16 km south of the city centre. This beachside destination boasts tonnes of things to do, whether you fancy an ice cream cone while moseying by the water or taking a dip in the gorgeous 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 veryyy Instagrammable pictures.
Killiney Beach is quite the pretty 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.
