Ireland’s Top 5 Beaches to Visit
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Ireland may not be known for having the warmest weather all year, but the beaches are so beautiful that you won’t mind spending the entire day on the beach. Ireland’s beaches have a lot to offer, from soft, golden sand to magnificent coral grounds. Whether you want to explore the nearby towns or taste the fresh seafood surrounded by natural landscapes, here is our pick of the top five beaches in Ireland.
Dog’s Bay, County Galway
Dog’s Bay is a must-see for beachgoers. The Galway beach, shaped like a horseshoe, is located near Gurteen Bay, a lovely beach just off the road to Clifden. Both are only a short drive from Roundstone Village, and they are among the most protected beaches in the area, with fewer currents and waves to worry about.
Unlike other Irish beaches, the sands are soft and white, thanks to sea creatures’ broken shells. This makes the beach feels like it’s on one of the many Caribbean Islands. In the summer, you’ll also enjoy the wildflowers that sprout among the grass, and apparently, this lush landscape can only be seen on Ireland’s west coast. If you enjoy water sports, this beach is ideal because it allows you to engage in water sports such as swimming and windsurfing.
Trá Mór, County Donegal
‘Trá mór’ or Tramore is the isolated beach in the shadow of the Horn Head peninsula. It is undoubtedly the most gorgeous beach, with its fine, white sand made of coral. It’s also one of just two beaches on Ireland’s west coast with this remarkable trait.
To get to this stunning beach, walk for about 15 minutes from the arched bridge at the end of Killahoey Beach through the wind-blown grassy dunes. Trust that the journey will be worthwhile because you will have the entire beach to yourself. Nature lovers will enjoy the scenery and spend hours exploring the little rock ponds.
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Keem Bay, Achill, County Mayo
Keem Bay is situated off Ireland’s northwest coast on Achill Island, the largest of the Irish Isles. Cross the Michael Davitt Bridge with the help of an online map on your smartphone to get here, and you’ll be greeted with breathtaking views of the Croaghaun and Slievemore mountains. Despite the unpredictable weather, the sight of the Blue Flag certified beach draws visitors in and keeps them coming back.
Keem Bay is a popular water sports destination. Tourists travel from all over the world to take part in activities such as snorkelling and surfing at this bay, which was once a refuge for shark fishing. The mile-long trail that begins here and runs along the Benmore cliffs to Achill Head will also pique the interest of hikers.
Banna Strand, County Kerry
Banna Strand, neighbouring Keem Bay, is another Blue Flag certified beach surrounded by dunes that climb to 40 feet. Locals from Tralee would walk the entire length of the 6km beach throughout the summer, especially. This makes it one of Ireland’s largest beaches, and the warm water of the Gulf Stream assures that you’ll have a fun time swimming and surfing in the shallow waters.
If you don’t want to jump in the sea, you may head to the 10m-high dunes and capture the vista of Mount Brandon and the Dingle Hills with your trusty camera, or even a drone. A paved path behind the beach is also ideal for cyclists or strollers, and it leads to the beautiful Blennerville Windmill.
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Inchydoney Beach, County Cork
Inchydoney Beach, a short drive from Clonakilty and a little more than an hour from Cork City, is no exception. This broad, Blue Flag certified beach is among the most picturesque along this stretch of coastline. The beach is not only free of stones and rubbish, but it is also suitable for a long barefoot walk. Plan your walk, and you’ll be able to go even further from the beach, as the coastline is divided by the rocky Virgin Mary Headland.
If you want to go surfing, this is the place to go because there is a surf school on the beach that caters to all skill levels. The waves at this beach are ideal for both beginners and more experienced surfers. During peak season, there are lots of lifeguards on duty to keep you safe. If you’re not into it, come to the beach to play in the sand and look for shells with the family around the headland.