Best Beaches in Ireland

Enjoy over four miles of beautiful white/beige sand in perfect condition! It truly is paradise to run on the beach, bring your family for an evening swim, or re-connect with old friends.

One of Ireland's most notable beaches, Inchydoney offers a surreal environment: gorgeous golden sand, a beautiful lodge, and a wide range of activities. Pub and spa located near the beach, which has great parking. In the water, common activities include (predominately) surfing and swimming. Ideal for long walks and beautiful views of Ireland!

This beach is a very popular holiday destination. This world renowned beach is seated on the scenic Lough Swilly and boasts sandy beaches and sunlight in the Irish countryside.

Consistently hailed as one of Ireland's most gorgeous beaches (and for good reason), Keem Bay is located at the western edge of Achill Island. Breathtaking golden sand, turquoise water, and steep sea cliffs make Keem a one-of-a-kind destination. Recommended activities include swimming, bathing, and completing the cliff-top exploration. There is a coffee and tea stand at the beach, but besides that, amenities are limited.

Streedagh Beach, located near Grange in County Sligo, Ireland, is a tranquil stretch of coastline known for its sweeping sand dunes, dramatic scenery, and historic shipwreck sites. The beach offers a peaceful retreat from urban life, with its wide-open sands and powerful Atlantic waves providing a captivating backdrop for visitors. As part of Sligo's Wild Atlantic Way, Streedagh is celebrated for its natural beauty, raw charm, and a unique sense of solitude that makes it a favorite among walkers, photographers, and those seeking inspiration in nature. Its proximity to renowned surfing spots and traditional Irish villages adds to its appeal, creating a genuine and authentic Irish coastal experience.

User reviews often highlight the unspoiled character of Streedagh Beach, its relatively quiet atmosphere compared to busier tourist destinations, and the sense of connection to both history and nature. The area is also known for its rich maritime history, including the tragic wreck of Spanish Armada ships in 1588, which gives the beach a poignant and evocative atmosphere. Whether exploring the dunes, birdwatching, or simply soaking in the dramatic scenery, Streedagh Beach offers a memorable and uniquely Irish seaside escape.

Killiney Beach is a popular destination in Dublin, Ireland, known for its stunning views and scenic walks. The beach offers a tranquil atmosphere, making it ideal for relaxation and leisure activities. Located near the picturesque Killiney Hill, it provides a combination of natural beauty and proximity to urban amenities.
The area is also famous for its historic sites and cultural attractions, offering a mix of outdoor activities and historical exploration. Visitors can enjoy the beautiful coastal scenery, with the option to explore nearby parks and hills.
The beach serves as a great spot for picnics and walks, offering a serene escape from the city's hustle and bustle.

Coumeenole Beach sits along the rugged coast of the Dingle Peninsula in County Kerry, Ireland. Renowned for its striking views of towering cliffs and the wild Atlantic Ocean, the beach offers a dramatic and unspoiled natural landscape. Its remote location and scenic beauty give it a peaceful, secluded atmosphere, attracting visitors who seek solitude and a connection with nature.
The beach’s unique charm lies in its tranquility combined with the raw power of the sea, making it a favorite spot for photographers, hikers, and nature lovers. The crescent-shaped beach of soft sand nestled between rocky headlands provides a perfect contrast of textures and colors, with clear blue waters meeting golden sands against a backdrop of vibrant greenery.
The overall vibe at Coumeenole is one of rustic serenity mixed with natural splendor, ideal for those who appreciate the unpolished beauty of the Irish coast and want to experience a quieter beach away from heavy tourist crowds.

Rossbeigh Beach is a hidden gem located in the Glenbeigh district of Ireland. It is an expansive, six-kilometer long, sandy beach. It makes up part of the Ring of Kerry, a 179-kilometer long circular tourist route in south-western Ireland that is popular for day trips. During the summer months, the beach is warm enough to visit, but remember to bundle up as the temperature averages around 64 °F. The texture of the sand here is incredibly fine, and Rossbeigh Beach’s status as a Blue Flag beach means that the water is very clean, making it perfect for swimming and surfing. Parking is abundant on the southern end of the beach which also contains tennis courts, a children’s playground, and a small restaurant called the Rosspoint Bar and Restaurant. If you’re tired of the beach and are looking for a commercial area, the village of Glenbeigh is two kilometers away and has a pub, shops, and more restaurant options. Rumours Bistro offers delicious Irish cuisine, with vegan and gluten-free​ options, while Towers Restaurant is a local bar and pub serving delicious Guinness beer.

Silver Strand, located in Clogher West, Connaught, Ireland, offers a tranquil escape marked by pristine sandy stretches and a backdrop of rolling green hills. The beach is cherished for its serene atmosphere and scenic natural beauty, making it an ideal spot for those seeking relaxation away from the crowds. Visitors are drawn to its peaceful environment, where the gentle sound of waves blends with the fresh coastal air, creating a restorative experience for both locals and travelers.

The area around Silver Strand is surrounded by small villages and traditional Irish landscapes, providing a genuine sense of local charm. Its relatively hidden location means it remains uncrowded, allowing for uninterrupted walks and moments of solitude. With panoramic views of the Atlantic and easy access to nearby amenities, Silver Strand stands out as a true hidden gem along the Irish coast, perfect for family picnics, seaside strolls, and quiet contemplation.

Murder Hole Beach, located on Rough Island in Ulster, Ireland, is a stunning and secluded coastal destination known for its dramatic cliffs, clear waters, and rugged natural beauty. The beach offers visitors a peaceful retreat with breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean, surrounded by wildlife and scenic walking trails. Its relatively hidden location provides a quiet escape from busier tourist spots, making it a favorite among nature lovers and photographers seeking magnificent landscapes.
Visitors to Murder Hole Beach appreciate the pristine shoreline characterized by a mix of sand and pebbles, with rocky formations that create a unique beach environment. The beach exudes a charming and somewhat wild atmosphere, ideal for those looking to immerse themselves in Ireland's raw coastal environment. The overall vibe is tranquil yet invigorating, drawing in adventurous souls and families alike, all keen to explore the natural surroundings and enjoy the fresh sea air.
As part of the Wild Atlantic Way, Murder Hole Beach is a gem in Ulster's coastal line-up, offering not only natural allure but also access to nearby amenities and attractions that enhance the visitor experience. This combination of secluded beauty and convenient access contributes to its growing reputation as a must-visit beach in the region.

A remote beach with calm quiet waters. There is no lifeguard on duty here so it is not recommended to leave children unattended.

Awarded Blue Flag recognition and marked as a Special Area of Conservation, Barleycove Beach has all of the facilities needed to enjoy your day. The combination of fine beige sand and excellent opportunities for swimming makes this a great place to relax. If you visit this beach, it's strongly recommended to grab a meal at the Beach Bar Restaurant.

Bundoran Beach lays in the seaside town of Bundoran at the southern tip of the county of Donegal. The population of Bundoran is about 2,000 people making the city a charming seaside location, but lacking in some amenities. You will not find luxury hotels in Bundoran, instead, you’ll find many families and individuals who travel from far and wide for the world-renowned surfing at the Tullan Strand. The Tullan Strand lays directly north of the main Bundoran Beach and offers ideal surfing for experienced surfers, however, this beach is not recommended to beginners due to the many rocks and reefs that are potentially dangerous. For visitors who choose to forgo the surfing, they can enjoy the calmly situated Bundoran Beach which has much smaller waves and less dangerous rocks. Bundoran Beach is a Blue Flag beach as of 2018 and is lifeguarded from June until September every year, making it a great spot for families and anyone trying to suntan in a calm setting. While there are no​ shops on the sand, the main street of Bundoran is a short 10-minute walk from the water, and in town, you’ll find many restaurants such as Caroline’s Cafe, Waves Surf Cafe, and La Sabbia Restaurant. The one surf shop in town, the Donegal Adventure Center, offers rentals and lessons. Other attractions in Bundoran are the Bundoran Adventure Park (classic carnival-style rides and food), the Waterworld Bundoran (many slides and a wave pool), and the Stracomer Stables (offers periodic horseback outings). The Bundoran Golf Club is a links-style golf course which is often enjoyed by surfers after a morning on the waves! Bundoran is a secluded yet bustling town on the Atlantic just waiting for you to experience its many attractions!

Golden sand. Four miles long. Beautiful views. Filmed in "Ryan’s Daughter." Great restaurants. All of this perfectly describes Inch Beach, one of the best beaches in Ireland and awarded Blue Flag status. Located on the Dingle Peninsula. Popular spots on the beach include the surfing school and Sammy's Restaurant, which serves fresh oysters. There is a large car park with reserved handicapped spaces, but you can even drive on the beach (just don't get stuck!). Great for families, surfers, photographers, and just about anyone!

Enjoy the rural Irish landscape at Brittas Bay, which was recently awarded Blue Flag status and designated as a Special Area of Conservation! Swim, hike, or play links-style golf. This is the perfect place for those who want to visit a quieter beach and escape the business of Dublin––and see plenty of dune brush. Dogs are allowed but must be on a leash. RV's are prohibited near the beach, but there are a few caravan parks nearby.

Glanleam Beach, located on Valentia Island in Munster, Ireland, offers a serene coastal retreat surrounded by stunning natural beauty. This beach is known for its peaceful atmosphere, making it ideal for visitors looking to enjoy tranquil seaside experiences away from the crowds. The beach features a mix of rocky and pebble shorelines, which complement the vibrant marine life and scenic landscape of the area.
Visitors to Glanleam Beach appreciate its blend of rugged charm and accessibility, with a backdrop of lush greenery and the nearby Valentia Lighthouse adding to the picturesque setting. The gentle vibe here is perfect for families, couples, and outdoor enthusiasts alike, offering ample opportunities for relaxation and nature exploration throughout the year.
The beach's location adjacent to Knightstown means it benefits from proximity to local amenities and cultural attractions, enhancing the overall visitor experience with the blend of natural and community-driven attractions.

Dunmoran Beach is located in Connaught, Ireland, offering a serene and natural setting for those seeking relaxation. The beach is nestled in a scenic area, providing breathtaking views of the coastline. It is a haven for nature lovers and those looking to unwind in a tranquil environment.
The surrounding landscape is dotted with rolling hills and lush greenery, creating a picturesque backdrop for beach activities. Visitors can enjoy walking along the shoreline, taking in the sights and sounds of the ocean.
The local community is known for its warm hospitality, making it an inviting destination for tourists.

An Tra Mór Beach, nestled along the rugged coastline of Inverin in the Connemara region of County Galway, Ireland, is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere. This hidden gem offers sweeping views of Galway Bay and the dramatic landscapes that Ireland’s west coast is famous for. Visitors are drawn to its wide sandy stretches, clean waters, and the surrounding unspoiled countryside, making it a favorite for those seeking peace, outdoor adventure, and authentic Irish charm.

The beach is cherished by both locals and tourists for its relatively quiet setting, especially outside peak tourist months. Its remote location means you’ll often find yourself sharing the shore with nothing but seabirds and the wild Atlantic breeze. An Tra Mór is ideal for families, couples, and solo travelers looking to escape the bustle and immerse themselves in Ireland’s stunning coastal scenery.

Velvet Strand, located near Hoorn Terschelling in Leinster, Ireland, is a captivating beach renowned for its natural beauty and inviting atmosphere. This beach offers a tranquil escape with its scenic coastline featuring a blend of pebbles and sandy stretches, complemented by gentle waves perfect for various water activities. Visitors often highlight the peaceful vibe, making it an ideal destination for families, couples, and adventure seekers alike.
The unique charm of Velvet Strand also stems from its accessibility and well-maintained environment, which encourages a diverse crowd including LGBTQ visitors, pet owners, and outdoor enthusiasts. Its blue flag status signifies excellent water quality and environmental standards, enhancing its appeal as a pristine beach getaway. The blend of natural features and community-friendly provisions creates a welcoming environment for all kinds of visitors who want to relax, explore, or engage in water sports.

This beach is peculiar in that its white sand is comprised not of limestone but seashell fragments. The water is clear and the conditions are perfect for various waterspouts such as windsurfing.

This beach is the location of the wrecked Armada ship La Trinidad Valencera making it a perfect spot for fishing. Plenty of bass, flounder, and dogfish dwell around the ship. In the summer months, this beach becomes a popular destination for sunbathing for locals and fisherman.