As Ireland continues to welcome more tourists and Dublin’s city center becomes increasingly busy, peaceful natural escapes like Portmarnock Beach offer a much-needed contrast. Just 30 minutes from Dublin by DART or car, Portmarnock Beach — also called the Velvet Strand — is an underrated coastal gem that combines scenic beauty, rich history, accessibility, and local charm.
Whether you’re a local looking for a morning walk, a tourist seeking a break from crowded attractions, or a nature lover wanting a quiet retreat by the sea, Portmarnock Beach delivers a memorable experience.
In this article, I’ll share my first-hand experiences of visiting Portmarnock Beach, alongside expert insights, research-backed advice, and practical tips to help you make the most of your visit.
Quick Facts About Portmarnock Beach
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | North County Dublin, Ireland |
| Length | ~5 km (3 miles) |
| Nickname | Velvet Strand |
| Public Access | Yes, open year-round |
| Public Transport | DART to Portmarnock Station or Dublin Bus (32, H2) |
| Amenities | Toilets, parking, wheelchair access, bins |
| Water Quality | “Excellent” rating from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA, 2023) |
My Experience at Portmarnock Beach
I first visited Portmarnock Beach during a spontaneous weekend trip from Dublin. I was immediately struck by the soft golden sands, breathtaking view of Howth Head, and the open, uncluttered space. Unlike more commercialized beaches, Portmarnock felt more local, natural, and meditative.
I walked the full length of the beach in under two hours, stopping frequently to take photos, watch windsurfers, and listen to the calming sound of gentle waves. Families picnicked, kids played football, and elderly couples enjoyed their morning walks — a snapshot of Irish coastal life at its best.
Why Visit Portmarnock Beach?
1. Easy Access From Dublin
Portmarnock is ideal for a half-day trip. If you’re staying in Dublin:
- By Train: Take the DART northbound to Portmarnock Station (~25 mins). It’s a 15-minute walk from the station to the beach.
- By Bus: Routes 32, H2, or 42 will drop you close to the beach.
- By Car: About 30 minutes from the city center with available free parking.
2. Clean, Safe, and Swimmable
According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) of Ireland, Portmarnock Beach received an “Excellent” water quality rating in 2023 — a standard it has maintained for several years. Lifeguards are typically present in the summer months, and safety signage is clear.
3. Ideal for Outdoor Activities
- Swimming & Sunbathing (May–September)
- Kite-surfing and Windsurfing: The steady winds make it a favorite among locals.
- Jogging & Walking: The flat beach is ideal for long walks.
- Photography: Stunning sunrise views and panoramic sea-meets-sky shots.
- Golf Nearby: Home to Portmarnock Golf Club, one of Ireland’s most prestigious courses.
4. Family-Friendly Environment
- Shallow water for paddling
- Ice cream vans in the summer
- Benches and grassy picnic areas nearby
- Clean public toilets
5. Historical Significance
- In 1930, Charles Kingsford Smith began his transatlantic flight to Newfoundland from Portmarnock Beach.
- The beach was once part of a route used by ancient traders between Dublin and Drogheda.
Helpful Tips for Visiting Portmarnock Beach
- Go Early for Tranquility: Arrive before 10 AM on weekends to avoid crowds.
- Pack Layers: Irish weather is unpredictable. Even in summer, bring a windbreaker.
- Check Tide Times: Use Tide Times UK – Portmarnock to plan your walk at low tide.
- Respect Nature: Bring your rubbish with you, especially if bins are full.
- Photography Tip: Head north on the beach for the best sunrise shots with Howth Head in the distance.
Where to Eat Nearby
- Lali’s Restaurant (Portmarnock Hotel) – Elegant Irish cuisine with a sea view.
- Il Panorama Café – Great coffee, breakfast, and sea-facing tables.
- Hogs & Heifers – A family-friendly American-style grill, about 10 mins by car.
- The White Sands Hotel Bar – Casual pub food with beach views.
Safety & Environmental Information
According to Irish Water Safety, while Portmarnock is generally calm, swimmers should:
- Avoid swimming alone
- Stay within lifeguard-patrolled areas
- Not swim near windsurfers or jet skis
The EPA’s Bathing Water Quality Report (2023) praised Portmarnock Beach for maintaining consistently low bacteria levels and being among Ireland’s cleanest urban beaches. Source: www.beaches.ie
What Makes Portmarnock Unique?
- The View: On clear days, you can see Lambay Island and the coast of Howth.
- The Serenity: Less busy than Malahide or Sandymount.
- The Community Feel: Locals frequent this beach year-round.
- The Velvet Sand: Finer, smoother sand than most Dublin-area beaches.
Common Questions About Portmarnock Beach
Q: Is Portmarnock Beach good for swimming?
A: Yes! With its “Excellent” water quality rating and lifeguard presence in summer, it’s one of the safest beaches near Dublin for swimming.
Q: Is it wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, there’s a beach mat and accessible parking available.
Q: Are dogs allowed?
A: Yes, but they must be leashed during peak hours (10 AM – 6 PM) from June to September.
Q: Are there public toilets?
A: Yes, near the main entrance. They are maintained by Fingal County Council.
Final Thoughts:
Absolutely. Portmarnock Beach combines natural beauty, historical depth, and community warmth in a way that few places near Dublin can. It’s not just a beach — it’s a breath of fresh sea air, a walk through local history, and a restorative escape from the city’s energy.
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.
