This 5km-long stretch of sand seems to go on forever. Inch Beach has starred in at least three blockbuster movies: Ryan’s Daughter (1970), Excalibur (1981), and Far and Away (1992). It faces west, which means it’s perfect for surfing. In summer, the local surf schools are very busy teaching people how to stay up on its waves, which can get as high as 3m (10ft)!
It’s hard to beat the iconic Curracloe Beach in County Wexford. Famous for its starring role in Saving Private Ryan, Curracloe is backed by dunes and walking trails. Just stroll into Curracloe Forest right next to the beach! It’s the ideal spot for a family day out. Plus, you can head over to the Surf Shack for rentals, surfing lessons and paddleboarding.
Ballymastocker Strand was once voted the second most beautiful beach in the world by the readers of the British Observer. Expect turquoise waters, dramatic mountain views, and a sense of total escape. Ballymastocker was famously used as a filming location for the movie “The Secret of Roan Inish.” It’s also a popular spot for swimming, surfing, kayaking, and fishing.
Nestled in a horseshoe-shaped bay, Keem Bay feels like something out of a travel magazine. Even just the drive there is as breathtaking as the beach itself! This secluded bay is found at the western edge of Achill Island. The beach is surrounded by rocks that are part of the craggy Croaghaun Cliffs – the highest cliffs in Ireland.
Bonus: You might spot basking sharks offshore in summer!
Ballybunnion is home to Ireland’s only beachside statue of Bill Clinton (yes, really!). It’s actually two beaches separated by the ruins of Ballybunion Castle: North Beach (AKA Ladies’ Beach) and South Beach (AKA Men’s Beach). And, when you’re ready to escape, Ballybunion is a seaside resort town with lots of places to explore!
These two crescent-shaped beaches near Roundstone are separated by a narrow sand spit. Gurteen Bay and Dog’s Bay are made up of dazzling white sand and bright blue waters. Uniquely, the sands are formed from crushed seashells. The water is calm, clear, and resembles the Caribbean on a sunny day! The sheltered location makes it an ideal spot for swimming and kitesurfing.
While Strandhill isn’t ideal for swimming, its dramatic swells and clean breaks makes it a surfer’s paradise! Stop by the National Surf Centre Strandhill and get a lesson from one of the top three surf schools in the area. Or bring your friends to Strandhill Surf School and try a group session. For something a little different, book a day retreat with Rebelle Surf and not only enjoy time on the waves, but also a spot of yoga, wild foraging and food tasting.
Located at the tip of the Slieve League Peninsula, Silverstrand is one of Donegal’s most secluded beaches. The beach is a pristine cove framed by green cliffs and rolling hills. Prepare to encounter a long set of steps — but it’s worth every one. The sand here slopes gently into the Atlantic, making it a prime swimming spot – although beware there are no lifeguards.
Just an hour outside Dublin, Brittas Bay is perfect for a quick escape from the city. It has miles of golden dunes which cover go on for over 100 hectares. The dunes are home to many interesting wildlife species and plants, making the beach a “Special Area of Conservation.”
Just a short drive from the Cliffs of Moher, Lahinch is a lively beach town in Clare. Every year, Lahinch attracts thousands of people worldwide to its surf schools. The beach also is a popular destination for water sports like swimming, kite surfing, sea kayaking, and diving. Lahinch is a great spot to grab a pint in one of the local pubs. Now that’s a classic Irish beach day done right!
