The climate in Ireland is quite moody. Some say that you can experience all four seasons in one day! That means that the sun, the rainfall, and mild wind are all probable once you visit the Emerald Isle. Be ready for anything.
Ireland has an impressive coastline with many diverse and beautiful beaches. People tend to visit them in the summertime since the weather is warm enough to have some fun by the water, though usually not warm enough to sunbathe or swim.
In any case, there are plenty of other reasons to visit Ireland’s beaches, so we have prepared a list of the top 7 ones.
1. Inchydoney Beach, County Cork
Inchydoney is the perfect beach for taking a stroll away from the city noise. Completely untouched, unlittered, and clean, this beach is loved by tourists and locals. In addition, it works as a great meeting spot for picnics, dates, and friendly get-togethers.
If you are into active water-sport, you will be happy to hear that the waves here are perfect for surfers, both beginners and experienced.
Inchydoney Beach has been certified as a safe and clean space by the Foundation for Environmental Education. The beach is located about 60 kilometers away from Cork City, the Foodie capital of Ireland. Tours to Ireland offer some interesting experiences in the area.
2. Inch Beach, County Kerry
Do not be fooled by the name! Inch Beach is not small in any way! Located on the Dingle Peninsula in southwest Ireland, this is one of the top-rated beaches in the country.
Once again, the waters are perfect for surfers, and people tend to swim here as well. However, taking a dip might be a bit cold because the climate is never hot enough to warm the water.
Inch Beach offers views of Slieve Mish Mountains and the MacGillicuddy Reeks mountain range.
3. Dog’s Bay, County Galway
With a jolly and fun shape of a horseshoe, Dog’s Bay is located hand in hand with the Gurteen Bay, both of which you can reach by a quick walk from the Roundstone village.
The beach is a perfect spot for windsurfing and kitesurfing, so make sure to visit if you like these. The water here is exceptionally clear, but the real gem is the sand.
The sand in Dog’s Bay consists of tiny shells from foraminifera, a type of sea creature. That makes it soft and white – perfect for sinking in your heels. Your best choice for safe and quick travels is to embark on one of the well served Ireland trains.
4. Coumeenoole, County Kerry
Coumeenoole is the only beach here that looks tropical at times. The water turns turquoise when the sun shines just the right way, giving it a dreamy, southern look.
The landscape mixes edgy cliffs with winding roads, picturesque houses and lovely bay views, which means walking here is bliss. In less windy days, of course.
Like the one before, Coumeenoole is favored by surfers, kitesurfers, and windsurfers. Meaning the beach is rarely vacated, so keep that in mind if you are looking for a remote sanctuary. However, also know that this beach is still calm and magical even with many people around, so do not be discouraged from visiting.
5. Derryane, County Kerry
Derryane is a must-see beach if you are on tour to see the Ring of Kerry.
The beach is favorited mainly by families with children. It is surrounded by large, safe rocks that attract the kids, and the white sand beach is perfect for castle-building. Another advantage is that the waves are never crazy, so if you decide to go for a swim, the water will be safe and calm.
After your day at the beach, visit the quaint village of Caherdaniel – it is only a couple of kilometers away.
6. Keem Beach, County Mayo
Perfect for scuba-divers and snorkeling enthusiasts, Keem Beach is one of Ireland’s most visited beaches. Settled at the end of Achill Island, the beach is surrounded by grassy slopes and an impressive variety of plants and wildlife.
You can take a walk from Benmore to Achill Head for the best views, and since the beach is famous for fishing, why not try that?
7. Whiterocks Beach, Portrush, County Antrim
A picturesque view, molded by mother nature and untouched by humans – the beauty of Whiterocks Beach is in the creamy rocks carved by the Atlantic, in the honey-colored dunes, and clear blue waters.
Whiterocks is the perfect site for nature-lovers and people who do not like crowds. This beach is well-known for tourists and, of course, locals, yet it never tends to get overcrowded.
Try stand-up paddleboarding while you are here!
Here you go! We hope you will find the one closest to your heart, and if not – just visit them all! They are equally beautiful. Have a lovely Irish holiday!
