Beaches near Dublin

Dublin has a lot to recommend it as a place to visit. Dublin city center offers some of the liveliest and most fun nightlife anywhere in Europe, and this exciting town is also the perfect place to encounter the rich history of Ireland. History lovers, fans of live music, and bachelor and bachelorette parties alike come to the Irish capital to soak up unique hospitality and atmosphere like no other.

But although Dublin sits close to the Irish Sea, is not normally thought of as a beach destination. Ireland's weather can often be cloudy and rainy, even during summer, and the sea here stays cold even in the height of summer.

That doesn't mean the beaches aren't worth visiting. In fact, there are several beautiful beaches very close in North County Dublin and beyond that make great places to get away from the bustle of the city and enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere. The Irish countryside is stunningly beautiful, and the beaches around Dublin can give you a glimpse of that natural beauty without having to stray too far from the city.

The 4 best beaches close to Dublin

Don't expect to find a tropical paradise near Dublin. What you will find instead is a variety of beaches, ranging from family-friendly places with lots of amenities to more isolated locations that are perfect for soaking in some peace and quiet. Plus, even in the rain, there's a certain bleak beauty to some of these beaches near Dublin.

North Beach

North Beach, located in the coastal town of Skerries, about 30 kilometers north of Dublin city center, is a scenic and peaceful beach destination. You can reach the beach by car in about 40 minutes from Dublin, and there is parking available nearby. Alternatively, public transport options include taking the DART or commuter train to Skerries Station, followed by a short walk to the beach.

North Beach is known for its quiet atmosphere, long sandy shores, and beautiful views of the Irish Sea and nearby islands. The beach is ideal for a relaxing day out, with gentle waves making it suitable for swimming and wading. It’s also a popular spot for walking due to its lovely coastal paths that take you through the picturesque town of Skerries and along its rugged coastline. The beach’s natural charm is enhanced by the historic Skerries windmills visible from the shoreline, adding a unique touch to the landscape.

North Beach is part of a broader coastal area that includes South Beach, which is located on the other side of the Skerries headland. The two beaches are connected by a scenic coastal walk, giving visitors a chance to explore both shorelines and take in the stunning views of the nearby Rockabill Lighthouse and Colt Island.

This beach perfectly combines natural beauty, tranquility, and history, so is a wonderful place to visit directly from Dublin. If you're traveling across Ireland, you can make things easier on yourself by leaving your heavy bags behind for a few hours while you visit the beach. We partner with local businesses across the country so you always have a place to leave your things.

Dollymount Strand

Dollymount Strand is located on Bull Island, just 10 kilometers from Dublin city centre, making it one of the most accessible beaches in the area. You can easily reach the beach by car or public transportation, with buses running regularly from Dublin city centre, but the walk at the end will range from 20 to 30 minutes to the beach. The journey takes around 20 minutes by car, and there’s ample parking available near the beach.

Dollymount Strand is one of Dublin’s most beloved beaches, stretching for five kilometers along the coast. Known for its wide, sandy shoreline and impressive views of Dublin Bay, the long sandy beach is always a popular choice. It’s ideal for long walks, sunbathing, and swimming, though the waters can be quite chilly. Thanks to the winds coming off the Irish Sea, Dollymount Strand is also a hotspot for kite surfing and windsurfing, with equipment rentals and lessons available for those looking to try out these water sports.

The beach forms part of the Bull Island Nature Reserve, which is a protected area known for its rich biodiversity and stunning natural beauty. Birdwatchers will appreciate the variety of bird species that call the island home, particularly during migration seasons. The surrounding dunes and salt marshes provide a scenic backdrop, making Dollymount Strand a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.

In addition to the beach itself, Dollymount is close to St. Anne’s Park, one of Dublin’s largest and most beautiful parks. After spending time at the beach, you can explore the park’s gardens, trails, and historic features. For golfers, the Royal Dublin Golf Club is located on Bull Island, and you can appreciate the stunning views of the bay while you enjoy a round of golf.

This is one of the most popular beaches in Dublin, so you'll want to head to the sand dunes early to stake out your spot, especially in the summer months when Dublin beaches can get quite crowded. Leave your things behind at a Bounce luggage storage location in Dublin, and you'll be able to get an early start and beat the rush.

Balscadden Bay Beach

Balscadden Bay is located in the charming seaside village of Howth, just 15 kilometers northeast of Dublin. The drive from the centre takes 25-30 minutes. You can also take the DART train from Dublin's Tara Street Station to Howth Station, followed by a short walk to the bay (45 minutes total). Public transportation is frequent, making it a convenient destination for a day trip.

Balscadden Bay Beach is a small, hidden gem tucked away beneath the cliffs of Howth Head. Unlike the larger, more bustling beaches around Dublin, this bay offers a peaceful and secluded spot to enjoy the scenic beauty of the Irish coast. The bay is surrounded by rocky cliffs and rewards you with lovely Irish Sea views. Though it is more of a rocky inlet than a sandy beach, Balscadden Bay is a popular spot for swimmers, especially during the summer months, when the clear, cold waters are perfect for a refreshing dip. The calm waters and tranquil atmosphere make it an excellent spot for a quiet swim or for simply relaxing by the water.

What sets Balscadden Bay apart is its picturesque setting. The nearby Howth Cliff Walk offers breathtaking views of the bay and surrounding areas, including the Baily Lighthouse and Ireland’s Eye Island. The walk starts just a short distance from the bay and provides some of the best coastal views in Dublin. It's a perfect combination when you want to experience both the beauty of the cliffs and the serenity of the bay.

After spending time at Balscadden Bay, why not explore the lively village of Howth? It's famous for its fresh seafood restaurants, cozy pubs, and local markets. The nearby Howth Harbor is perfect for a stroll, and boat tours to Ireland’s Eye are available for those looking to explore the nearby island.

What do you do if you have to check out of your vacation rental or hotel early in the day, but still have plenty of time to spend in the city or at the beach? That's why Bounce is especially useful. We provide convenient luggage storage throughout the city so that you can enjoy the incredible views of this area hands-free.

Rush South Beach

Rush South Beach is located in the coastal town of Rush, a 40-minute drive from central Dublin. For public transportation, you can take the commuter train to Rush & Lusk Station and then a short bus or taxi ride to the beach.

Rush South Beach is a beautiful, family-friendly beach with a long stretch of sandy shoreline and plenty of space for visitors to spread out and enjoy the Irish coast. The beach is known for its calm waters and the surrounding sand dunes add to the natural beauty of the area while also providing shelter from the wind for a pleasant day at the beach.

What makes Rush South Beach special is its relaxed, local vibe. It’s a quieter alternative to the more well-known beaches around Dublin, like Donabate Beach for surfers and Portmarnock Beach for strolling by the dunes. Rush South is great for walkers and joggers, with scenic views across the Irish Sea and the nearby Lambay Island visible in the distance.

The beach's charm extends to the quaint coastal town of Rush, which you can easily visit for a meal or to shop for local products (which make great souvenirs). Rush Harbour is another picturesque spot near the beach with fishing boats and lovely views of the coastline. The town’s proximity to both North Beach and South Beach means you can easily explore both beaches in one visit.

If you've arrived too early to check into your accommodation and want to start enjoying the beach right away, don't worry. Bounce provides convenient luggage storage throughout the city so you always have a place to leave your things.

Whether you're looking for a blue flag beach perfect for swimming or atmospheric stretches of sandy beaches for long walks, you can find it outside Dublin. Along with the beaches on this list, Burrow Beach, Killiney Beach, Rush North Beach, and tons of other great beaches are just waiting to be explored here.