There’s something about Irish beaches that feels almost otherworldly — wide open skies, sweeping sands and the ever-changing shimmer of the Atlantic and Irish Sea. In summer, these coastal treasures truly come alive, offering the perfect spots for sandy toes, salt-kissed hair and endless adventures with the little ones. It's true what they say - when the sun shines in Ireland, there's no where else you'd rather be. Ireland is blessed with stunning coastlines and beautiful beaches that make for gorgeous day trips.
If you’re planning a trip in 2025, here are 15 beautiful beaches in Ireland that deserve a place on your must-visit list.
Photo by Dahlia E. Akhaine on Unsplash
1. Inch Beach, Co. Kerry
A seemingly endless stretch of golden sand backed by misty mountains — Inch is a dreamy place for family walks and even surfing lessons.
2. Curracloe Beach, Co. Wexford
Famous for its appearance in Saving Private Ryan, Curracloe boasts soft white sand and dunes that seem to go on forever. Perfect for a sunny picnic!
3. Dog’s Bay and Gurteen Bay, Co. Galway
These twin crescent beaches with powdery white sand and crystal-clear water are simply spectacular on a sunny day. A little piece of heaven in Connemara, that looks like somewhere straight out of the Caribbean!
4. Ballybunion Beach, Co. Kerry
Loved for its impressive cliffs, rock pools and safe swimming areas, Ballybunion is a classic Irish beach town spot that families adore and love visiting time and time again.
5. Keem Bay, Achill Island, Co. Mayo
Oh, Keem! Sheltered by dramatic green cliffs, this hidden bay offers the softest sands and shimmering turquoise waters. Plan your visit to beautiful Achill.
6. Silver Strand, Co. Donegal
Tucked away down a steep path near Malin Beg, this beach feels like a secret paradise — especially at sunset. Donegal is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Ireland and this is one unspoilt gem you don't want to miss.
7. Banna Strand, Co. Kerry
Wide, wild, and wonderful — Banna is perfect for kite flying, long walks and admiring the endless Atlantic horizon.
8. Portmarnock Velvet Strand, Co. Dublin
Just a short hop from Dublin city, Portmarnock's golden sands are ideal for a lazy summer’s afternoon. Plan your visit to Portmarnock.
9. Rosses Point, Co. Sligo
With views of Benbulben in the distance and charming cafes nearby, Rosses Point is ideal for families looking for beauty and convenience. Discover more about Rosses Point.
10. Lahinch Beach, Co. Clare
Surfer's paradise! Lahinch offers lessons for beginners, big Atlantic waves for the adventurous, and great spots for watching the world roll by. Make sure to enjoy a delicious ice-cream from one of the nearby shops. If you have little ones in tow, there's also a fab playground just opposite the beach. Clare has lots of people places and is a gorgeous county to explore as a family.
11. Inchydoney Beach, Co. Cork
Regularly voted one of Ireland’s best beaches, Inchydoney’s soft sand and safe swimming conditions make it perfect for a summer’s day. This is a truly beautiful beach, with soft sands for the kids to play and rockpools for those who like to explore.
12. Brittas Bay, Co. Wicklow
A family favourite! Brittas Bay’s rolling dunes and clean, shallow waters make it a classic beach trip choice. Just an hour from Dublin. Plan your trip to Brittas Bay.
13. Strandhill Beach, Co. Sligo
A place for wild beauty and world-famous surf, Strandhill is also brilliant for seaweed baths after a bracing walk along the shore.
14. Barleycove Beach, Co. Cork
Hidden away in West Cork, Barleycove feels untouched and wonderfully wild, with soft sands and lagoons formed after a 1755 tsunami! It's also just a stones throw away from the very end of Ireland, Mizen Head, which makes for a great day out before relaxing on Barleycove's beautiful sands.
15. White Strand, Miltown Malbay, Co. Clare
A peaceful, sheltered beach with stunning views — perfect for little ones to paddle and build sandcastles.
Top Tips for Visiting Irish Beaches
Always check the tides before heading out — some beaches can disappear almost completely at high tide.
Bring layers — even in July, the Atlantic breezes can be bracing and you can get chilly quite quickly when on the beach, especially after a swim.
Pack snacks and a flask — while some beaches have lovely cafés nearby, others are remote with no nearby shops or facilities.
Respect nature — take your litter home and leave only footprints in the sand.
Ireland’s beaches aren’t just places — they’re feelings, little heart-memories tucked away among the waves and dunes. A perfect summer day here can feel like it lasts forever, as laughter mingles with the salt air and the sun dips low over the ocean.
So, pop your beach blanket into the car, gather your nearest and dearest and come discover these coastal jewels for yourself.
https://www.dollydowsie.com/?s=irelandFor more inspiration for days out, places to visit and hidden gems in Ireland, don't miss our Ireland section, which is full of info and inspo!
