Keem Bay, Achill, Co Mayo, Ireland
IRISH BEACHES
Keem Bay, at the western end of Achill Island, is one of the most picturesque bays in Ireland. At the heart of Keem Bay is the beautiful fine sandy beach. This strand is bordered on two sides by cliffs; to the east by the slopes of Croaghaun mountain, and to the west by a spar called Moyteoge. It provides a peaceful and magnificent retreat from the 21st century.
Dunlaughin, Connemara, Galway, Ireland
The Connemara coastline is one of Ireland’s great beauties. It’s also criminally underappreciated. Take advantage of that while you can and grab your board and head to Dunlaughin. This secluded beach, just down the coast from Ballyconneely, is wonderfully isolated and offers amazing views and decent waves that cater for beginners and moderately experienced surfers. The break is best when the wind hits from the South West. This is a great spot to pitch a tent if you fancy a bit of wild camping.
Donabate, North County Dublin, Ireland
Donabate Beach is located in North County Dublin and is a great spot for walking and canoeing. From the beach there are beautiful views of Lambay Island, Howth Peninsula and Malahide Estuary. Explore the many rock pools. Dogs are allowed on leads. Free car park and toilet facilities, with life guards in Summer months. It is easily accessible from the M50 and M1 motorways.
Gurteen Beach and Dogs Bay,
Connemara, Ireland
Two miles from Roundstone, Co Galway, on the road to Clifden, are two of the finest beaches in Ireland. Gurteen Beach and Dog’s Bay lie back to back forming a tombolo jutting out into the Atlantic Ocean. Gurteen Beach is the larger of the two beaches and is located closer to Roundstone village. The water here is crystal clear and it's used for swimming and other water based activities including windsurfing and kitesurfing. The beach is naturally protected by the headland which it faces to the south and this is a very popular destination for holidaymakers in the summer with wonderful walks and it's a great place to collect sea shells.
Howth Cliff Walk, Dublin, Ireland
Feel the need for some fresh air and spectacular cliff scenery? The good news is you can actually do this on Dublin City's doorstep in the exciting seaside town of Howth. The walks along the seaside cliffs are great for even a casual stroll. You can even arrive using public transportation. The route will take you about an hour and a half to two and a half hours depending on your walking pace.
Harbour View Beach, Cork, Ireland
North of Coolmain Bay, close to Kilbrittain Creek, the beach of Harbour View is surrounded by dunes and green hills. Near the car park there are remains of an old pier. On the opposite side, the Kilbrittain River flows across the beach into the sea.
Inchydoney Beach, West Cork, Ireland
Inchydoney is a small island off West Cork, Ireland, connected to the mainland by two causeways. The nearest town is Clonakilty. It has a Blue Flag beach. It is a popular tourist destination. There are two beaches, one either side of the Virgin Mary headland. It is renowned not only as one of the most family friendly beaches in West Cork but also as one of the most beautiful. Vast expanses of sand and dunes provide excellent surfing conditions.
Garretstown Beach, Cork, Ireland
Garretstown Beach is an extensive sandy beach located along the coast of County Cork. It enjoys stunning views of The Old Head of Kinsale and is a great spot for walking, bathing and swimming. The Beach is located within a short distance of Ballinspittle village by car. Facilities include a car park and toilets. There is also a pitch and putt course nearby. There is a surf school at the beach providing lessons and equipment hire for surfing, body boarding and stand up paddle boarding. The beach can be accessed via a ramp and steps.
Dock Beach, Kinsale, Cork, Ireland
The Dock Beach, is the best known of Kinsale’s beaches. Located at Castlepark, Kinsale is a small yet beautiful beach located just over the bridge and a short walk from the town centre. This family hot spot shares its name with the well known Dock Bar that sits at the entrance and car park for the Dock Beach. Both are located on the Castlepark peninsula that is only reachable from Kinsale town by bridge, unless of course you have a boat. The Dock beach is a clean sandy beach with shallow water perfect for bathing and swimming. Nestled into the south facing side of the peninsula it enjoys uninterrupted views of the inner harbour as well as Charles Fort located directly across the harbour.
