Ireland’s coastline is like a 6200km-long (3852 miles) glittering necklace where land and sea get cozy. From secret coves known only to local mermaids to sprawling stretches of golden sand that scream “beach paradise,” Ireland’s coast is practically a beach lover’s nirvana.
Sure, the wild western coastlines may look like they’ve had a fight with the Atlantic Ocean, and yes, those waves can be a bit feisty. But when the sun finally graces those shores, you’ll find yourself sinking into sands so soft they’ll make you believe you’ve drifted closer to the equator. If your UK beach list is exhausted, it’s time to give Ireland beaches a whirl.
Forget the clichés of European golden shores or the glamorous Indian Ocean. Ireland beaches have their own rugged charm and boast some of the world’s best beaches. From hidden sandy treasures to Blue Flag beauties, here are 12 Ireland beaches that are totally worth the detour.
So pack your sunscreen and get ready to fall in love with the best-kept secrets of Ireland’s coastline!
Table of Contents
Discover 12 Ireland Beaches That Will Make You Question the Equator!
Trá Mór: The Secret Beach That Might Just Be All Yours
Welcome to Trá Mór, County Donegal’s best-kept secret and a prime contender for Ireland’s most exclusive beach award. Picture this: a beach so off-the-beaten-path that you might just have the entire two-mile stretch of this silvery beauty all to yourself. Nestled on the wind-swept Horn Head peninsula, Trá Mór, which means “big beach” in Gaelic (because clearly, the Irish weren’t messing around), is a hidden gem worth the effort.
How do you find this sandy paradise? Simple. Leave the charming village of Dunfanaghy and head towards Horn Head. Cross a charmingly rickety bridge, spot the car park and the Lurgabrack Nature Reserve sign, and then embark on a delightful stroll through a tree-lined path. A bit of dune-hopping later, and voilà—Trá Mór, one of the most stunning Ireland beaches, is all yours to revel in.
Portsalon Beach: Where Even the Sand is Showing Off
Portsalon Beach (aka Ballymastocker Strand) isn’t just a beach—it’s the beach that makes all other beaches feel insecure. Voted the second most beautiful in the world (yes, world!), this Donegal gem flaunts golden sands and jaw-dropping views of the Inishowen Peninsula. Want to feel like you’re living in a postcard? Stop at the lookout and let the scenery do the rest.
Pro tip: time your visit for sunset and prepare to have your Instagram blow up. And for those who like to sleep in style, why not bunk in a cosy yurt at Portsalon Luxury Camping? You’ll wake up to the sweet sound of Lough Swilly, not your alarm. Trust us—nature’s got your back.
Carrickfinn Beach: Where Even Your Airport Landing is a Scenic Event
If your plane ride into Donegal Airport feels like an Instagram reel, thank Carrickfinn Beach for showing off. Voted one of the most scenic landings in the world (take that, every other airport!), Carrickfinn flaunts crystal-clear waters and silky white sands that practically beg for a barefoot stroll. Wildflowers? They’ll be there to greet you in spring and summer—nature’s version of a red carpet.
After your picturesque wander, take a dip, or better yet, kayak your way around with Rapid Kayaking for some added adrenaline. End the day at Danny Minnie’s Restaurant, where the warm Donegal welcome comes with a side of deliciousness. Beach bliss? Achieved.
Curracloe Beach: Where Golden Sands Meet Hollywood Glamour
Welcome to Curracloe Beach, County Wexford’s classic Irish seaside treasure. Spanning seven glorious miles of golden sand, this beach has been the go-to spot for bucket-and-spade enthusiasts for generations. But don’t let its popularity fool you—Curracloe still exudes a wild, untouched vibe, thanks to its scenic backdrop of the Raven Nature Reserve. This eco-friendly haven is a birdwatcher’s paradise and home to some seriously rare flora and fauna.
Film buffs, take note! Curracloe Beach doubled as Omaha Beach in Spielberg’s epic Saving Private Ryan and graced the silver screen in Brooklyn with Saoirse Ronan and Domhnall Gleeson.
To find this gem among Ireland beaches, simply head from Curracloe village and follow the R743 signposted for Curracloe Beach. So, grab your sunblock and your film trivia—Curracloe promises a beach day that’s both classic and cinematic!
Keem Bay: Ireland Beaches’ Best-Kept Secret
Keem Bay on Achill Island might just be the crown jewel of Ireland beaches. This secluded crescent of golden sand, nestled at the edge of the wild Croaghaun Cliffs, is as dramatic as it is beautiful. Getting there involves a bit of a trek down a steep path, but don’t let that deter you—Keem Bay is one of Europe’s most breathtaking spots. Its Blue Flag status is basically the beach equivalent of a Michelin star, though it hardly does justice to its stunning backdrop.
For a beach that combines spectacular views with a hint of adventure, Keem Bay stands out among Ireland beaches. So, lace up your hiking boots and prepare to be wowed by one of the island’s best-kept secrets!
Trawmore Bay: Ireland Beaches’ Underrated Gem
Trawmore Bay on Achill Island is the unsung hero of Ireland beaches, stretching out in a 4km-long (2.5-mile) golden crescent between Keel and Dookinelly. While it may not grab the spotlight like its nearby celebrity cousin, Keem Bay, Trawmore Bay still shines with its mix of sand and shingle. It’s a hotspot for bodyboarders and surfers eager to challenge the Atlantic’s wild waves.
Swimmers, however, might want to stick to the calmer Keel end to avoid the notorious currents. For the perfect photo op, climb the Minaun Cliffs, rising 466m (1528ft) above the beach—your Instagram will thank you.
Achill Tourism’s got the inside scoop on walking routes, cycling paths, and top spots to stay. So, pack your gear and discover why Trawmore Bay is a standout among Ireland beaches!
Inch Strand: Ireland Beaches’ Silver Screen Star
Inch Strand in County Kerry is like the Hollywood A-lister of Ireland beaches, boasting a 5km-long (3-mile) sand spit that’s had its fair share of screen time. Featured in Ryan’s Daughter, Excalibur, and Far and Away, this Blue Flag beach is famous for its sprawling beauty. But to truly understand its charm, you need to feel the sand between your toes.
Facing west, Inch Strand is a surfer’s playground, with waves reaching up to 3m (10ft) in summer. Local surf schools are happy to help you ride those waves like a pro. Not into surfing? No worries—Inch is also a top birdwatching spot. So whether you’re walking, swimming, or channeling your inner movie star, Inch Strand is a must-visit among Ireland beaches!
Banna Strand: Ireland Beaches’ Hidden Gem
If Inch Strand is the glamorous movie star, Banna Strand in County Kerry is the beloved local hero. This enormous Blue Flag beach stretches a whopping 6km (3.7 miles) along the coast, about 13km (8 miles) northwest of Tralee. On sunny weekends, locals flock here to walk its expansive length or simply bask in its sandy glory. With the Gulf Stream giving the waters a surprisingly warm touch, a swim here is less “crazy” and more “inviting,” especially on those blissful September days when summer lingers.
For those who prefer to stay dry, the 10m-high (33ft) dunes offer breathtaking views of Mt Brandon and the Dingle Hills. And if you’re in the mood for a detour, check out Crag Cave, discovered in 1983. It’s a hidden treasure with rock formations, including a stalagmite that resembles the Madonna. So, whether you’re strolling, swimming, or caving, Banna Strand is a standout among Ireland beaches!
Killiney Beach: Ireland Beaches with a Touch of Celebrity Glam
Killiney Beach in County Dublin is the go-to spot for those who want a taste of city beach life with a dash of star-studded flair. Nestled in the posh suburb of Killiney, this long, pebbly beach is flanked by some of Dublin’s most exclusive homes—think Bono and Enya with front-row seats to the stunning Killiney Bay. The bay is so strikingly beautiful that the streets around it are named with Italian flair, because why not add a touch of Mediterranean charm to your daily stroll?
While you may share the beach with other swimmers, walkers, and families, the scenic walk from end to end is a highlight among Ireland beaches. So, lace up your fancy beach shoes and enjoy a slice of Dublin’s coastal glam!
Rossbeigh Strand: Ireland Beaches with a Legendary Twist
Rossbeigh Strand in County Kerry is the stuff of legends—literally. According to Irish myth, this is where Oisín and Niamh embarked on their magical journey to the land of eternal youth, “Tír na nÓg,” on a gleaming white horse. While the eternal youth part might be up for debate, the views are undeniably epic. This three-mile-long spit juts into Dingle Bay on Kerry’s Iveragh Peninsula, giving you the delightful illusion that you’re encircled by sand, sea, sky, and mountains.
When the tide is low, you can stroll to the tip of Rossbeigh and feel like you’re almost high-fiving Inch Strand across the bay. To get there, simply turn off the N70/Ring of Kerry onto the R564 for a 2km jaunt from Glenbeigh village. Rossbeigh Strand is a standout among Ireland beaches, with a legendary backdrop that makes your visit feel truly magical.
Ballyquin Beach: Ireland Beaches You Won’t Have to Share
Tucked away about 5km northeast of Ardmore, Ballyquin Beach is the best-kept secret among Ireland beaches. This secluded gem boasts a sweeping arc of pristine white sand, with its eastern edge dotted with tidal rock pools and the remnants of a former stud. While Ardmore Beach gets all the glory, Ballyquin is where locals go for their morning swims and evening surf fishing escapades. Here, you can try your luck for flatfish or bass without the crowd of tourists wondering why they didn’t find this hidden paradise first.
To find Ballyquin, just follow the road sign off the R673 for Goat Island—because everyone needs a little secret spot to escape to, right?
Streedagh Strand: Ireland Beaches’ Hidden Gem of Epic Proportions
Dive into the extraordinary at Streedagh Strand, where Ireland beaches transform into a swimmer’s paradise. Nestled in County Sligo, this stretch of golden perfection beats the chaos of Strandhill and Mullaghmore with its tranquil waves and soft sands. Picture this: a secluded bay cradled by majestic dunes, offering a protected swim so serene, it feels like you’ve found a secret passage to paradise.
But wait, there’s more! On rare low-tide days, peek beneath the waves to uncover the eerie remnants of three Spanish Armada ships, grounded here in 1588. It’s like a historic treasure hunt with every splash—where ancient shipwrecks meet your sun-soaked summer day.
