Beaches In Ireland: A Guide To Ireland’s Stunning Shores

Beaches in Ireland are more than just lovely places to visit. They are full of fun, adventure, and peaceful moments. With clear waters and long sandy shores, the coastline draws people from everywhere. Famous beaches like Keem Bay and Inch Strand offer exciting water sports and quiet spots to relax. With so many different beaches surrounded by amazing views, there’s something for everyone, whether you enjoy surfing or simply love nature. Each of these beaches in Ireland has its own feel, with different features and places to discover.

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Top 10 Beaches In Ireland

The following list showcases some of the most popular beaches in Ireland, each offering a unique combination of beauty, adventure, and natural charm.

1. Keem Bay, Achill Island

An image of Keem Bay on Achill Island, County Mayo, Ireland, featuring Ireland Beaches

Photo: Eoghan888 / Wikimedia Commons

Keem Bay is a horseshoe-shaped bay on the western coast of Achill Island, County Mayo, Ireland. The beach is known for its stunning views and has tall cliffs, rolling hills, and clear turquoise waters. The beach has soft, white sand, perfect for sunbathing and taking walks. Keem Bay is a popular spot for swimming, kayaking, and hiking. The area around the bay also offers opportunities for birdwatching and exploring the local flora and fauna. With its calm atmosphere and scenic surroundings, Keem Bay can be a refreshing spot to unwind.

Things To Do: Visit Achill’s Deserted Village, enjoy a scenic drive along Atlantic Drive, hike nearby trails, and explore the rich marine life
Location: Western tip of Achill Island, County Mayo, Ireland
How To Reach: Take the Michael Davitt Bridge to Achill Island and follow signs for Keem Bay. Be mindful of narrow roads.

2. Inch Strand Beach

An image of Inch Strand, one of the best beaches in Ireland, showcasing its long coastal views

Photo: Tim FitzGerald / Wikimedia Commons

Inch Strand, a lovely beach on Ireland’s Dingle Peninsula, has three miles of golden sand, surrounded by the Slieve Mish Mountains and the wide Atlantic Ocean. Visitors can enjoy walks, play games, and even try horse riding at this popular beach. Inch Strand is well-known for its steady waves, making it a great spot for water sports. Visitors can also explore the nearby dunes, which are home to many different plants and animals. This famous beach, shown in movies like “Ryan’s Daughter,” gives you a memorable Irish coastal experience.

Things To Do: Surfing, kayaking, beach walks, birdwatching, and visiting nearby historical sites
Location: Inch, County Kerry, Ireland
How To Reach: Take a bus from Tralee to Dingle, then a taxi or local bus to Inch Strand

3. Rossbeigh Beach

An image of Rossbeigh Beach in County Kerry, Ireland, featuring its sandy shore and stunning views

Photo: Ostendali / Wikimedia Commons

Rossbeigh Beach is a 6-kilometer long sandy beach on the Dingle Bay side of the Iveragh Peninsula in County Kerry, Ireland. The beach, situated along the well-travelled Ring of Kerry route, features large sand dunes, gentle waves, and shallow waters. It’s a spot where visitors can enjoy swimming, walking, horse riding, or even surfing. Rossbeigh Beach also has a Blue Flag award for its clean water, ensuring safe swimming. Lifeguards are also present during the summer months for extra safety.

Things To Do: Swimming, beach games, scenic walking, picnicking, and exploring local cafes
Location: Rossbeigh, County Kerry, Ireland
How To Reach: Take a bus from Killorglin to Glenbeigh, then a taxi ride to the beach

4. Bundoran Beach

An image of Bundoran Beach in County Donegal, Ireland, with its sandy shore and dramatic coastline

Photo: Rossographer / Wikimedia Commons

Bundoran Beach, along the Atlantic coast of County Donegal, Ireland, is a place that draws visitors for its natural charm. The wide golden sands and strong waves often appeal to surfers, while the cliffs around the beach offer striking views of the ocean. Bundoran can suit both families and adventure seekers, with activities such as coastal walks, exploring the Donegal countryside, and discovering local history. The nearby town adds to the experience with its welcoming cafes, unique shops, and restaurants serving fresh seafood and traditional Irish meals.

Things To Do: Surfing, coastal walks, exploring Bundoran Adventure Park, and visiting local cafes
Location: Bundoran, County Donegal, Ireland
How To Reach: Take a bus from Donegal Town to Bundoran, then a short walk or taxi to the beach

5. Silver Strand Beach

An image of Silver Strand in County Donegal, showing its quiet beach and clear water

Photo: NTF30 / Wikimedia Commons

Silver Strand, a quiet spot on Donegal’s Rosguill Peninsula, is known for its soft white sands, clear waters, and tall cliffs. The horseshoe-shaped beach, with its calm waters, provides a relaxing spot for swimming. The cliffs around the beach also offer amazing views of the Atlantic Ocean. This peaceful beach, shown in the movie “The Railway Station Man,” is secluded, adding to its charm and making the visit feel extra special. Dolphins and seals can also often be seen in the water, making Silver Strand a great place to escape and enjoy nature’s beauty.

Things To Do: Swimming, cliff walks, sunbathing, and exploring the surrounding natural beauty
Location: Rosguill Peninsula, County Donegal, Ireland
How To Reach: Take a bus from Letterkenny to Downings and a taxi ride to the beach

6. Curracloe Beach

An image of Curracloe Beach, one of the top beaches in Ireland, with its calm waters

Photo: MikeWest Wexford / Wikimedia Commons

Curracloe Beach is a stunning sandy beach with a long stretch of golden sand and crystal-clear waters. It’s famous for being a filming location for Saving Private Ryan, which adds to its charm. Visitors love swimming, sunbathing, and surfing here, and there are lifeguards on duty in the summer to ensure safety. The beach is surrounded by lovely dunes and nature reserves, offering pleasant walks along the shore and breathtaking coastline views. It’s a great place to unwind and enjoy Ireland’s natural beauty.

Things To Do: Swimming, surfing, beach walks, and exploring the nearby nature reserve
Location: Curracloe Strand, County Wexford, Ireland
How To Reach: Take a bus from Wexford Town to Curracloe or a taxi from the station directly to the beach

7. Dog’s Bay

An image of Dog’s Bay in County Galway, featuring its clear waters and sandy beach

Photo: Niki.L / Wikimedia Commons

Dog’s Bay in Roundstone Bay is famous for its sandy beach with shells and clear waters. It’s an excellent place for swimming and unwinding while enjoying stunning landscape views. You can often see various birds and marine life in the area, making it a treat for wildlife enthusiasts. The calm atmosphere makes it an ideal getaway for anyone who loves nature, with nearby walking trails showcasing lovely mountains and coastline views. Dog’s Bay is one of the must-visit beaches in Ireland, offering a wealth of things to discover and enjoy.

Things To Do: Swimming, sunbathing, walking trails, wildlife spotting
Location: Roundstone Bay, County Galway, Ireland
How To Reach: Take a bus from Galway City to Roundstone, then walk or take a taxi to the beach

8. Murlough Beach

An image of Murlough Beach in County Down, Northern Ireland, with its sandy shore and scenic views

Photo: Laureljade / Wikimedia Commons

Murlough Beach is a lovely stretch of sand found at the base of the Mourne Mountains in County Down. It offers a peaceful escape surrounded by beautiful nature. As part of Murlough Nature Reserve, the area is home to various wildlife, including rare birds and vibrant wildflowers. The beach’s long, untouched shoreline makes it perfect for leisurely walks, birdwatching, or just soaking in the stunning views of the mountains and sea.

Things To Do: Walking, birdwatching, sunbathing, swimming, exploring Murlough Nature Reserve
Location: Murlough Nature Reserve, County Down, Northern Ireland
How To Reach: Take a bus from Newcastle to Murlough, then walk to the beach

9. Portsalon Beach

An image of Portsalon Beach in County Donegal, showcasing its golden sand and peaceful setting

Photo: Mhdelaney / Wikimedia Commons

Portsalon Beach, found on the lovely Rosguill Peninsula, is among the best beaches in Ireland. Its soft golden sands and clear waters invite you to relax and unwind. The dramatic cliffs around the beach offer breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean, creating a peaceful backdrop for a day out. You can also take a refreshing swim, soak up the sun, or stroll along the shore. If you love nature, you’ll find plenty to explore here, from various bird species to coastal plants. Portsalon Beach is a peaceful place to take in the scenery and enjoy some quiet time outdoors.

Things To Do: Swimming, sunbathing, beach walks, wildlife watching
Location: Rosguill Peninsula, County Donegal, Ireland
How To Reach: Take a bus from Letterkenny to Portsalon, then a short walk or taxi to the beach

10. Inchydoney Beach

An image of Inchydoney Beach in County Cork, Ireland, with its sandy shore and clear waters

Photo: Sean Oulashin / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only

Inchydoney Beach, near Clonakilty, Ireland, has miles of golden sand, clear blue waters, and soft dunes. Visitors can enjoy swimming, surfing, and walking activities, with lovely coastal views. The beach also provides a relaxing setting for a day out or an adventurous water sports session. Relax and enjoy the nearby cafes, where you can taste local food while enjoying the scenery. Surfers love the beach because of its steady waves.

Things To Do: Swimming, surfing, beach walks, enjoying local food at nearby cafes
Location: Clonakilty Bay, County Cork, Ireland
How To Reach: Take a bus from Cork City to Clonakilty, then a short taxi ride to Inchydoney Beach

These beaches in Ireland have long sandy shores and hidden coves between cliffs. Each beach has something special, making it an inviting place to relax, explore, or enjoy nature. You’ll find a suitable spot whether you want to surf or just relax. You can spend the day soaking in the views or try out different activities. Ready to make lasting memories? Plan your dream beach holiday in Ireland with TripXL and make countless memories.

Cover Photo: Mark Lawson / Unsplash

Frequently Asked Questions

What activities can I enjoy at Ireland's beaches?

Ireland's beaches offer a range of activities, from surfing at Bundoran Beach to walking and birdwatching at Murlough Beach. Many beaches also provide opportunities for swimming, picnicking, and exploring the surrounding landscapes.

Are there lifeguards on beaches in Ireland?

Many of Ireland's popular beaches, such as Portmarnock and Curracloe, have lifeguards on duty, particularly during the summer, ensuring swimmers' safety.

Are there any beaches in Ireland with wildlife?

Yes, beaches like Whitepark Bay are surrounded by lush greenery and attract various species of wildlife, making them a perfect destination for nature lovers.

What makes Keem Bay on Achill Island unique?

Keem Bay stands out for its pristine white sands, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and dramatic cliffside views. It is also known for its rich history, including its past as a site for whale hunting, adding an interesting historical layer to its natural beauty.

Do Ireland's beaches have good facilities?

Yes, beaches like Bundoran and Brittas Bay offer excellent amenities such as parking, toilets, cafes, and even picnic areas for visitors' comfort.

Beaches In Ireland: Experience The Best Coastal Destinations For Relaxation And Adventure