Ireland may be famous for its rolling green countryside, historic castles and traditional pubs, but its coastline is equally spectacular.
Thousands of kilometres of shoreline surround the island, revealing enormous golden strands, sheltered swimming coves, dramatic surfing beaches and peaceful bays with crystal-clear water.
Some beaches are located beside lively seaside towns, while others are hidden at the end of winding coastal roads. Many form part of the Wild Atlantic Way, where towering cliffs, mountains and Atlantic waves create some of Ireland’s most memorable landscapes.
Whether you want to swim, surf, walk, take photographs or simply enjoy the fresh sea air, these 15 magnificent beaches deserve a place on your Ireland itinerary.
1. Keem Beach, County Mayo
Keem Beach is tucked into a spectacular horseshoe-shaped bay on the western side of Achill Island.
A winding mountain road descends towards the beach, providing outstanding views of turquoise water, green hills and the surrounding cliffs. The sheltered bay feels wonderfully remote despite being accessible by road.
Visitors can stroll along the soft sand, swim in the Atlantic or follow the 4.8km Keem Bay Loop for elevated views across the coastline. Snorkelling and other outdoor activities are also popular when sea and weather conditions are suitable.
The drive across Achill Island is part of the experience, passing mountains, peatlands, coastal villages and several other beautiful beaches along the way.
2. Dog’s Bay, County Galway
Dog’s Bay is one of the most distinctive beaches in Connemara.
Located near the picturesque village of Roundstone, the beach forms one side of a narrow sandy peninsula. Gurteen Beach lies immediately behind it on the opposite side.
The exceptionally white sand at Dog’s Bay is made from crushed seashell fragments rather than traditional limestone. Combined with the clear turquoise water and surrounding green countryside, this creates an almost tropical appearance on a bright day.
The sheltered setting makes Dog’s Bay popular for walking, relaxing and swimming when conditions are safe. Parking can be limited during busy summer periods, so arriving early is recommended.
3. Inch Strand, County Kerry
Inch Strand is an enormous sandy beach stretching along the Dingle Peninsula.
Its five kilometres of golden sand provide magnificent views across Dingle Bay towards the MacGillycuddy’s Reeks and the mountains of the Iveragh Peninsula.
Inch is popular with walkers, surfers and families, and its wide open landscape is particularly impressive at low tide. Surf schools operate in the area, allowing beginners to experience the Atlantic waves under professional supervision.
The beach can be included while travelling between Killarney and Dingle. Stop at the viewpoint above the strand before descending, as it offers one of the finest coastal views on the entire peninsula.
4. Derrynane Beach, County Kerry
Derrynane Beach is surrounded by sheltered dunes, rolling green hills and the beautiful coastal scenery of the Ring of Kerry.
Located close to the village of Caherdaniel, its clear water and protected setting make it particularly popular for swimming and relaxing during suitable weather.
The ruins of Derrynane Abbey stand on Abbey Island and can be reached on foot when tidal conditions allow. Visitors should always check the tide and leave plenty of time to return safely.
Nearby Derrynane House was the ancestral home of Daniel O’Connell, one of the most important political figures in Irish history. Combining the beach and house creates an enjoyable mixture of scenery and heritage.
5. Inchydoney Beach, County Cork
Inchydoney is one of West Cork’s best-known beaches and is located just outside the colourful town of Clonakilty.
The beach is divided into two sandy sections by the rocky Virgin Mary Headland. Its broad strand, Atlantic waves and surrounding dunes make it popular with families, walkers and surfers.
Local surf schools offer lessons for different experience levels, while visitors looking for a quieter experience can enjoy a long walk along the shoreline.
Afterwards, continue into Clonakilty for excellent restaurants, traditional pubs, independent shops and live music. This makes Inchydoney an excellent stop during a longer tour of West Cork.
6. Barleycove Beach, County Cork
Barleycove is a beautiful sandy beach on the Mizen Peninsula in West Cork.
The beach is surrounded by dunes, rocky headlands and green hills, creating a secluded and peaceful setting. A floating bridge and boardwalk provide access across the river and protected dune system.
Barleycove is popular for walking and swimming when conditions permit. Its relative isolation makes it feel far removed from Ireland’s busier tourist destinations.
The beach can easily be combined with nearby Mizen Head, Ireland’s dramatic southwesterly coastal point. Visitors can cross the famous arched bridge and enjoy outstanding views of cliffs, seabirds and the Atlantic Ocean.
7. Curracloe Beach, County Wexford
Curracloe Beach is one of the longest and most impressive sandy beaches on Ireland’s east coast.
The beach stretches for approximately 11km and is backed by dunes and woodland. Its soft, fine sand makes it ideal for long seaside walks, particularly during the quieter morning and evening hours.
Curracloe became internationally famous when scenes from Saving Private Ryan were filmed in the area. The beach has also appeared in the movie Brooklyn.
The neighbouring Raven Nature Reserve offers woodland trails and opportunities to appreciate the natural environment surrounding this remarkable stretch of coastline.
8. Portsalon Beach, County Donegal
Portsalon Beach, also known as Ballymastocker Strand, is one of Donegal’s most spectacular coastal locations.
Before descending towards the beach, stop at the roadside viewpoint overlooking the entire strand. From here, the golden sand curves between the hills, with views extending towards the Inishowen Peninsula.
The beach itself provides plenty of room for walking, relaxing and enjoying the dramatic Donegal scenery. Evening visits can be particularly memorable as the setting sun illuminates the coastline.
Portsalon can be included as part of a tour around the Fanad Peninsula, along with Fanad Head Lighthouse and the area’s peaceful coastal villages.
9. Carrickfinn Beach, County Donegal
Carrickfinn Beach lies beside Gweedore Bay on Donegal’s rugged northwestern coastline.
Its clear water, white sand, dunes and surrounding grasslands create a wonderfully natural setting. During spring and summer, wildflowers add extra colour to the landscape.
The beach is located close to Donegal Airport, which is regularly praised for the magnificent coastal scenery surrounding its runway.
Carrickfinn is ideal for a peaceful walk or picnic and can be combined with nearby Gweedore, Mount Errigal and Glenveagh National Park during a wider exploration of County Donegal.
10. Strandhill Beach, County Sligo
Strandhill is one of Ireland’s best-known surfing destinations.
Its position on the Atlantic coast produces powerful waves and dramatic swells, attracting experienced surfers and beginners taking lessons with local surf schools.
Strong currents mean the beach is generally more suitable for surfing and walking than casual swimming. Visitors should follow all local safety advice and never enter the water outside appropriate conditions.
The village has developed into a lively coastal destination with cafés, restaurants, seaweed baths and excellent views of Knocknarea Mountain. A walk along the promenade followed by food or coffee is an enjoyable experience at any time of year.
11. Streedagh Beach, County Sligo
Streedagh Beach offers a calmer coastal experience beneath the distinctive mountains of north County Sligo.
Its sheltered position and clear water make it popular for swimming and paddleboarding when conditions are suitable. The long sandy strand is also ideal for a relaxed walk with views towards Benbulben.
Streedagh has an important historical connection to the Spanish Armada. Three ships were wrecked in this area during storms in 1588, and evidence connected to the wrecks has been discovered along the coastline.
The beach can be combined with Mullaghmore, Classiebawn Castle, Drumcliffe and the magnificent landscapes surrounding Benbulben.
12. Portmarnock Beach, County Dublin
Portmarnock Beach provides a wonderful coastal escape within easy reach of Dublin city.
Known as the Velvet Strand, the beach extends for approximately five kilometres and is famous for its soft golden sand. Visitors can enjoy views towards Howth Head, Ireland’s Eye and Lambay Island.
The strand is popular with walkers, families and sea swimmers throughout the year. It is also a beautiful place to watch the sunrise over the Irish Sea.
Portmarnock can be combined with Malahide Castle, Malahide village and Howth as part of a relaxed private tour of Dublin’s coastline.
13. Whiterocks Beach, County Antrim
Whiterocks Beach is situated beside Portrush on Northern Ireland’s spectacular Causeway Coast.
The beach takes its name from the pale limestone cliffs and unusual coastal formations that rise above the sand. These cliffs create arches, caves and distinctive shapes that have been formed gradually by the Atlantic Ocean.
Whiterocks is popular with surfers and walkers and forms part of the scenic coastline between Portrush and Bushmills.
It can be included during a tour of Dunluce Castle, the Giant’s Causeway, Bushmills and the wider Causeway Coastal Route.
14. Downhill Strand, County Derry
Downhill Strand forms part of an extensive stretch of golden sand running towards Magilligan Point.
The beach is overlooked by Mussenden Temple, one of Northern Ireland’s most recognisable landmarks. The circular building stands dramatically near the edge of the cliffs, creating an extraordinary backdrop for photographs.
Visitors can walk along the beach, enjoy views towards the Donegal coastline and explore the nearby Downhill Demesne.
This section of the north coast is also associated with several television and movie productions, and its combination of beach, cliffs and historic architecture makes it an unforgettable touring stop.
15. Murlough Beach, County Down
Murlough Beach is a five-mile stretch of golden sand near Newcastle in County Down.
The beach lies beside Murlough National Nature Reserve and enjoys a magnificent backdrop formed by the Mourne Mountains. Its extensive dunes and natural grasslands support a wide variety of plants and wildlife.
Visitors can enjoy walking, swimming when conditions are appropriate, wildlife spotting or simply relaxing beside the sea.
Nearby Newcastle offers cafés, restaurants, a traditional seaside promenade and easy access to the Mourne Mountains. Murlough can also be combined with Castle Ward, Downpatrick or a scenic drive through County Down.
Planning Your Irish Beach Adventure
Ireland’s coastal weather and sea conditions can change quickly, even during summer. Visitors should always observe warning signs, check local conditions and swim only where it is considered safe.
Lifeguard arrangements are generally seasonal and can differ between beaches. Comfortable footwear, waterproof clothing and a towel are useful even when swimming is not planned.
Many of Ireland’s most beautiful beaches are located close to other major attractions. Keem can be combined with Achill Island, Inch with the Dingle Peninsula, Derrynane with the Ring of Kerry and Barleycove with Mizen Head.
In Northern Ireland, Whiterocks and Downhill Strand fit naturally into a Causeway Coastal Route itinerary, while Murlough is perfect for a day exploring County Down.
Discover Ireland’s Coastline in Comfort
A private tour allows you to experience Ireland’s beaches without worrying about unfamiliar roads, parking or rigid public transport schedules.
At PRO Tours & Transfers Ireland, we create personalised private day trips and multi-day tours for couples, families and small groups. Your itinerary can combine spectacular beaches with historic castles, coastal villages, scenic viewpoints and traditional Irish pubs.
Travel in comfort with a knowledgeable private driver while discovering famous landmarks and hidden coastal locations along the way.
Discover the Ireland You’ll Never Forget.