Ireland is renowned for its breathtaking coastline, offering some of the cleanest and most picturesque beaches in Europe. Whether you’re a seasoned swimmer or just looking for a refreshing dip, Irish beaches cater to all. This guide highlights the best beaches in Ireland for swimming, complete with details about their location, accessibility, safety tips, and the best time to visit.
Why Swim at Irish Beaches?
Swimming at Irish beaches is a unique experience for several reasons:
- Pristine Waters: Many Irish beaches are Blue Flag certified, ensuring top-notch water quality.
- Diverse Choices: From tranquil bays to rugged Atlantic shores, Ireland has it all.
- Natural Beauty: Coastal landscapes range from dramatic cliffs to golden sandy stretches.
- Family-Friendly: Many beaches have lifeguards and facilities for safe, enjoyable swimming.
Top Beaches in Ireland for Swimming
Here’s an updated guide to the best beaches in Ireland for swimming, now including detailed locations, access instructions, safety tips, and the best times to visit.
1. Beaches in County Kerry for Swimming
a. Inch Beach
- Location: Located on the Dingle Peninsula, Inch Beach is about 25 km (15 miles) from Tralee and 32 km (20 miles) from Dingle.
- How to Get There: From Tralee or Dingle, follow the N86 road and then the R561 to reach Inch Beach. There’s ample parking available near the shore.
- Why It’s Great for Swimming:
Inch Beach is a long, sandy stretch with shallow waters, making it ideal for families and beginner swimmers. - Additional Activities:
Surfing, beach walking, and windsurfing. - Best Time to Visit: Summer (June to August) is ideal when the weather is warm, and lifeguards are on duty.
- Safety Tips:
- Stick to lifeguard-patrolled areas.
- Be cautious of strong winds, which can affect swimming conditions.
- Wear a wetsuit if you’re not used to colder water temperatures.
b. Derrynane Beach
- Location: Near Caherdaniel in County Kerry, Derrynane Beach is part of Derrynane National Historic Park.
- How to Get There: Take the N70 Ring of Kerry route and follow signs to Derrynane House. Parking is available near the beach.
- Why It’s Great for Swimming:
This Blue Flag beach features calm, sheltered waters perfect for swimming. - Additional Activities:
Explore nearby islands during low tide or enjoy the scenic walking trails. - Best Time to Visit: Summer months, particularly July and August, when the waters are calm and the beach is patrolled.
- Safety Tips:
- Avoid swimming during high tides or rough weather.
- Keep an eye on children, as the beach has rocky sections.
- Check the tide schedule, as some areas are only accessible at low tide.
2. Beaches in County Clare for Swimming
a. Lahinch Beach
- Location: Located in the town of Lahinch, approximately 75 km (47 miles) from Limerick.
- How to Get There: Follow the N67 road from Ennis or the N85 from Limerick. Public buses also connect Lahinch to nearby towns.
- Why It’s Great for Swimming:
Popular with families and surfers, this beach has designated swimming zones for safety. - Additional Activities:
Surf lessons, rock pooling, and nearby golf courses. - Best Time to Visit: Summer (June to September), when the beach is vibrant with activity, and lifeguards are on duty.
- Safety Tips:
- Watch out for rip currents, especially near the surfing zones.
- Swim only in the designated swimming area marked by flags.
- Avoid swimming during high tide.
b. Fanore Beach
- Location: Situated in the Burren region, about 30 km (19 miles) from Galway City.
- How to Get There: Take the N67 road and follow the signs for Fanore. Parking is available close to the beach.
- Why It’s Great for Swimming:
Fanore is a quieter beach with shallow waters and lifeguard patrols during peak season. - Additional Activities:
Ideal for picnics and exploring the Burren region. - Best Time to Visit: Late spring to early autumn (May to September) for the best swimming conditions.
- Safety Tips:
- Be cautious of jellyfish in late summer.
- Avoid swimming alone, as the beach is quieter than others.
- Bring water shoes to navigate the rocky areas.
3. Beaches in County Donegal for Swimming
a. Bundoran Beach
- Location: Situated in Bundoran town, about 30 km (19 miles) from Donegal town.
- How to Get There: Follow the N15 road from Donegal town to Bundoran. Public buses also service this area.
- Why It’s Great for Swimming:
A favorite among locals, Bundoran offers safe swimming areas and fantastic views. - Additional Activities:
Surfing, sea kayaking, and nearby amusement parks. - Best Time to Visit: June to August, when lifeguards are on duty, and water temperatures are warmer.
- Safety Tips:
- Avoid swimming near the rocky sections of the beach.
- Follow lifeguard instructions and swim in the flagged areas.
- Keep an eye on tide timings to avoid being caught off guard.
b. Rossnowlagh Beach
- Location: About 13 km (8 miles) from Donegal town, on the Donegal Bay coastline.
- How to Get There: Take the N15 road, then follow signs for Rossnowlagh. There is ample parking near the beach.
- Why It’s Great for Swimming:
Known for its clean waters and family-friendly atmosphere, Rossnowlagh is ideal for a refreshing swim. - Additional Activities:
Windsurfing and long beach walks. - Best Time to Visit: Summer months, particularly July and August, for calm and warm swimming conditions.
- Safety Tips:
- Stay within designated swimming zones to avoid surfboards and other water sports.
- Bring sunscreen, as the open beach has little shade.
- Watch for incoming tides, as they can rise quickly.
4. Beaches in County Dublin for Swimming
a. Portmarnock Beach (Velvet Strand)
- Location: Located just 15 km (9 miles) north of Dublin City.
- How to Get There: Take the DART train to Portmarnock station, then walk or take a short taxi ride to the beach. By car, follow the R106 from Dublin.
- Why It’s Great for Swimming:
Calm waters and easy access make this beach a top choice for swimming near Dublin. - Additional Activities:
Kite flying, jogging, and scenic views of Howth Head. - Best Time to Visit: Late spring to early autumn (May to September) for the warmest weather.
- Safety Tips:
- Be cautious of jellyfish during peak summer months.
- Avoid swimming too far out, as tides can be strong.
- Bring warm clothing for after your swim, as Dublin can be breezy.
b. Dollymount Strand
- Location: Situated on Bull Island, just 10 km (6 miles) from Dublin City.
- How to Get There: Take the DART train to Clontarf Road, then walk or cycle across the causeway to Bull Island.
- Why It’s Great for Swimming:
A quieter beach in Dublin, Dollymount offers a peaceful escape for swimmers. - Additional Activities:
Bird watching and paddleboarding. - Best Time to Visit: Late spring to early autumn (May to September).
- Safety Tips:
- Swim in the designated zones and avoid swimming during high tide.
- Be aware of strong currents further out from the shore.
- Keep an eye on weather forecasts, as the area can get windy.
5. Beaches in County Wexford for Swimming
a. Curracloe Beach
- Why It’s Great for Swimming:
Curracloe Beach is renowned for its soft, golden sands and crystal-clear, shallow waters. It’s perfect for family swimming and those seeking calm waters for a relaxed dip. - Additional Activities:
- Nature walks in nearby Raven Point Woodlands
- Birdwatching at the Wexford Wildfowl Reserve
- Photography and relaxing picnics
- Specific Location & How to Get There:
- Location: 10 km (6 miles) north of Wexford Town, in the townland of Curracloe Strand.
- How to Get There: From Wexford Town, take the R741 road toward Curracloe and follow signs for the beach. Parking is available near the entrance.
- Public Transport: There are buses from Wexford Town to Curracloe during peak season.
- Best Time to Visit:
The ideal time to visit is during the summer months (June–September), when the beach is lively, and lifeguards are on duty. - Safety Tips:
- Swim only in the designated lifeguard areas.
- Check tide schedules, as the beach can be affected by rising tides.
- Be cautious of jellyfish during warmer months.
b.Morriscastle Strand
- Why It’s Great for Swimming:
Morriscastle Strand is known for its long, sandy beach and shallow waters, making it ideal for swimming. The beach is family-friendly with lifeguards on duty during the summer months. - Additional Activities:
- Fishing along the shore
- Shell collecting along the sandbanks
- Walking and cycling in the surrounding area
- Specific Location & How to Get There:
- Location: 20 km (12 miles) south of Wexford Town, near the village of Kilmuckridge.
- How to Get There: Take the N11 south from Wexford, then follow the R741 to Morriscastle. Parking is available at the beach entrance.
- Public Transport: Public buses from Wexford to Kilmuckridge during the summer months.
- Best Time to Visit:
The best time to visit is during June–August when the weather is warm, and lifeguards are available. - Safety Tips:
- Always swim in the lifeguarded areas.
- Keep an eye on the wind conditions, as they can change quickly.
- Supervise children near the water, as it can get deep further out.
Detailed Table: Ireland’s Best Swimming Beaches
| Beach Name | County | Specific Location | How to Get There | Best Time to Visit | Safety Tips |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Inch Beach | Kerry | Dingle Peninsula, 25 km from Tralee | N86 to R561 | June–August | Swim in lifeguard zones, wear a wetsuit |
| Derrynane Beach | Kerry | Near Caherdaniel, part of Derrynane Park | N70 Ring of Kerry route | July–August | Avoid high tides, check tide schedules |
| Lahinch Beach | Clare | Lahinch Town, 75 km from Limerick | N67 or N85 | June–September | Watch rip currents, swim in flagged zones |
| Portmarnock Beach | Dublin | 15 km north of Dublin City | DART train or R106 | May–September | Be cautious of jellyfish, avoid windy days |
| Keem Bay | Mayo | Achill Island, remote bay location | Via N59 to R319 | Summer | Swim close to shore, check weather reports |
| Curracloe Beach | Wexford | Near Raven Point, southeast Ireland | R741 from Wexford Town | June–August | Swim in patrolled areas, watch tides |
Swimming Safety Tips for Irish Beaches
To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, follow these tips:
- Check Weather and Tides:
Always check the weather forecast and tide schedules before heading to the beach. - Swim in Designated Areas:
Stick to areas patrolled by lifeguards and marked safe for swimming. - Beware of Rip Currents:
Look out for warning signs and avoid areas with strong currents. - Wear a Wetsuit:
Irish waters can be chilly, even in summer. A wetsuit will keep you warm and buoyant. - Supervise Children:
Always keep an eye on kids while they’re swimming or playing near the water. - Stay Hydrated and Sun-Protected:
Bring water, sunscreen, and a hat, even if the weather is cloudy.
FAQs About Swimming in Ireland
1. Is it safe to swim in Ireland’s beaches year-round?
Swimming is possible year-round, but the water can be very cold outside of summer. Wetsuits are recommended in spring, autumn, and winter.
2. Are there sharks in Irish waters?
Yes, but they are generally harmless species like the basking shark. Encounters with sharks are extremely rare.
3. What is the warmest beach in Ireland?
Beaches along the southeast coast, like Curracloe Beach in Wexford, tend to have warmer waters compared to the west coast.
Final Thoughts
Ireland’s beaches are not only stunning but also offer safe and enjoyable swimming experiences for all. From the golden sands of Curracloe to the breathtaking views of Keem Bay, there’s a beach for everyone. By knowing how to get there, the best times to visit, and essential safety tips, you’ll be well-prepared to make the most of your time on Ireland’s beautiful shores.
So, plan your trip, pack your swimming gear, and dive into the refreshing waters of Ireland!
Hi, I’m Tanvir, the founder and author of Explore Ireland Now. With a deep love for Ireland and its rich culture, history, and landscapes, I created this site to share everything that makes this beautiful country worth exploring. Whether you’re a local looking for hidden gems or a traveler planning your next adventure, I provide insightful guides, tips, and recommendations to help you experience Ireland to the fullest.
From stunning landscapes to vibrant cities and quaint villages, Ireland is full of wonders waiting to be discovered. Through my personal experiences and research, I aim to bring you the most up-to-date information and inspiration for your journey.
Thank you for visiting Explore Ireland Now—I hope my content helps you uncover all that this incredible country has to offer! If you have any questions or need travel advice, feel free to reach out.
