Ireland, renowned for its rolling green hills and ancient castles, may not be the first country that comes to mind when you think of beaches. But here’s the truth: Ireland has some of the most breathtaking, wild, and pristine beaches in Europe—and they’re becoming more relevant than ever.
With a renewed focus on domestic travel, sustainable tourism, and mental well-being, coastal escapes are drawing record numbers. In fact, according to Fáilte Ireland’s 2024 Travel Trends Report, over 60% of domestic tourists cited beach walks and sea views as a top travel motivator.
From the towering dunes of Donegal to the family-friendly strands of Wexford, Irish beaches offer something for everyone—whether you’re swimming, surfing, strolling, or simply soaking in the serenity.
What Makes a Beach “Best”?
Before diving in, it’s important to define what we mean by “best.” In this guide, we’ve evaluated beaches based on:
- Scenic beauty
- Water quality (per EPA Blue Flag listings)
- Accessibility
- Facilities
- Activities offered (e.g., swimming, surfing, walking)
I’ve personally visited many of these beaches during family holidays, solo hikes, and weekend escapes over the past decade. These recommendations are grounded in first-hand experience, local knowledge, and trustworthy data.
Top 10 Beaches in Ireland
| Beach | County | Best For | Blue Flag (2024) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Inch Beach | Kerry | Surfing, sunsets | ✅ |
| Dog’s Bay | Galway | White sand, clear water | ✅ |
| Curracloe Strand | Wexford | Family fun, long walks | ✅ |
| Portsalon Beach | Donegal | Scenic drives, photography | ✅ |
| Brittas Bay | Wicklow | Dublin day trips, families | ✅ |
| Keem Bay | Mayo | Snorkelling, dramatic cliffs | ✅ |
| Ballymastocker Strand | Donegal | Quiet beauty, golden sands | ✅ |
| Banna Strand | Kerry | History, long beach walks | ✅ |
| Strandhill Beach | Sligo | Surfing, coastal cafés | ❌ (Strong currents) |
| Barleycove Beach | Cork | Dunes, nature lovers | ✅ |
1. Inch Beach, Co. Kerry
Why it’s special:
A long spit of sand stretching into Dingle Bay, Inch Beach is a dream for surfers, walkers, and photographers alike. The beach has even starred in films like Ryan’s Daughter.
Activities:
- Surfing (lessons available year-round)
- Driving on the sand (limited areas)
- Hot chocolate from Sammy’s Café
Personal tip:
Head there in the evening for a sunset over the Atlantic—it’s absolutely surreal.
2. Dog’s Bay & Gurteen Bay, Co. Galway
Why it’s special:
Located near Roundstone, these twin crescent beaches are made from foraminifera shells, giving the sand a striking white colour that rivals the Caribbean.
Best for:
- Swimming (calm, clear waters)
- Picnics with sea views
- Family beach days
Trustworthy source:
Designated a Special Area of Conservation by the National Parks and Wildlife Service.
3. Curracloe Strand, Co. Wexford
Why it’s special:
At over 11 km long, Curracloe is Ireland’s most iconic sandy stretch and was featured in Saving Private Ryan for its resemblance to Omaha Beach.
Why families love it:
- Lifeguards during summer
- Ample parking
- Boardwalks for easy access
My experience:
We took a weekend trip here in July—kids built sandcastles for hours while we enjoyed walking the dunes in peace.
4. Keem Bay, Achill Island, Co. Mayo
Why it’s special:
Hidden beneath towering cliffs on Achill Island, Keem Bay is Ireland at its rawest and most beautiful.
Great for:
- Snorkelling and paddling
- Wildlife watching (basking sharks have been seen here)
- Solitude in shoulder seasons
Insider tip:
Access via a narrow, winding road—drive carefully, especially in fog or rain.
5. Brittas Bay, Co. Wicklow
Why it’s special:
Just an hour south of Dublin, this beach offers soft dunes, safe swimming, and plenty of parking, making it one of the most accessible for city dwellers.
Ideal for:
- Day trips from Dublin
- Beach games with kids
- Camping nearby
Facilities:
Toilets, lifeguards, shops within 5-minute drive.
6. Portsalon Beach (Ballymastocker Bay), Co. Donegal
Why it’s special:
Once voted “second most beautiful beach in the world” by The Observer, this beach is part of the Wild Atlantic Way and framed by mountains and headlands.
Best for:
- Drone photography
- Windswept walks
- Scenic drives
Bonus:
Nearby Fanad Lighthouse is a must-see.
7. Banna Strand, Co. Kerry
Why it’s special:
Famous for its role in Irish history (Roger Casement’s 1916 landing), Banna Strand is steeped in culture and blessed with miles of unbroken sand.
Things to do:
- Horse riding
- Historical walks
- Sea swimming (check tide times)
My experience:
We visited in March and the beach was nearly empty—a true escape.
8. Strandhill Beach, Co. Sligo
Why it’s special:
Though dangerous for swimming, Strandhill is Ireland’s surf capital with a cool, laid-back vibe.
Best for:
- Surfing & bodyboarding
- Visiting Voya Seaweed Baths
- Post-surf coffee at Shells Café
Warning:
Strong currents = no swimming. Lifeguards issue clear warnings.
9. Barleycove Beach, Co. Cork
Why it’s special:
Tucked away on the Mizen Peninsula, Barleycove is surrounded by sand dunes, boardwalks, and rich biodiversity.
Perfect for:
- Nature photography
- Wildlife spotting (especially seabirds)
- Quiet contemplation
Fact:
Barleycove’s sand was actually deposited by a tsunami triggered by the 1755 Lisbon earthquake.
Summary Table: Quick Comparison
| Beach | Best For | Swimming | Surfing | Facilities |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Inch Beach | Surfing, sunsets | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Dog’s Bay | Calm waters, families | ✅ | ❌ | 🚻 |
| Curracloe | Long walks, families | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ |
| Keem Bay | Snorkelling, views | ✅ | ❌ | Limited |
| Brittas Bay | Day trips, safe waters | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ |
| Portsalon | Scenic drive stops | ✅ | ❌ | 🚻 |
| Banna Strand | History, walks | ✅ | ✅ (small) | ✅ |
| Strandhill | Surfing, cafés | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Barleycove | Dunes, nature | ✅ | ❌ | 🚻 |
FAQs About Beaches in Ireland
When is the best time to visit Irish beaches?
- June–September for warmer weather
- May or early October for fewer crowds but decent conditions
Are Irish beaches safe for swimming?
Many are, but check the Blue Flag status and local signage. Some beaches (like Strandhill) have dangerous currents.
Can I bring dogs?
Yes, but some beaches have seasonal leash laws (especially in summer). Always clean up after your pet.
Are Irish beaches accessible by public transport?
Yes, beaches like Brittas Bay, Killiney, and Portmarnock are reachable by Dublin Bus or DART. Remote ones like Keem Bay require a car.
What’s a Blue Flag beach?
It’s an internationally recognised standard awarded to beaches with excellent water quality, safety, services, and environmental management. Learn more at BlueFlag.global
Final Thoughts: A Coastal Paradise on Your Doorstep
You don’t need to fly to Spain or Greece for a breathtaking beach holiday. Ireland’s coastlines rival anywhere in Europe, with hidden coves, golden sands, and wild Atlantic views that will leave a lasting impression.
Whether you’re after surfing thrills in Strandhill, peaceful swims in Dog’s Bay, or scenic hikes along Banna Strand—there’s a perfect beach in Ireland for you.
💬 Got a favourite Irish beach I didn’t mention?
Let me know, and I’d love to add it to a future feature!
Or if you’re planning a beach road trip, I can suggest custom itineraries based on your interests.
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.
