The Top 10 Beaches in Ireland to Enjoy Year-Round

Ireland boasts a stunning coastline that stretches 6200 km (3852 miles), featuring breathtaking spots where land meets sea. From secluded coves known to a select few to expansive golden sands that draw visitors from afar, it's a true paradise for beach enthusiasts.

The finest beaches are often found along the rugged western coast, where the sometimes turbulent Atlantic waters may not seem welcoming at first. Yet, on a sunny summer day, the incredibly soft sands invite you to imagine yourself basking in warmer climes. Here are the absolute best beaches in Ireland.

1. Keem Bay, Achill Island, County Mayo

Arguably the most celebrated beach in Ireland, this secluded crescent of golden sand is located at the western tip of Achill Island. Surrounded by rugged rocks that are part of the towering Croaghaun Cliffs—the tallest in Ireland—accessing the beach requires descending a steep path. Despite the unpredictable weather and the sometimes tempestuous Atlantic, Keem Bay is among Europe’s most stunning destinations, with its Blue Flag designation hardly capturing the breathtaking scenery.

Local insight: The renowned Blue Flag signifies beaches, marinas, and boating services that meet high sustainability and environmental standards.

2. Trawmore Bay, Achill Island, County Mayo

This stunning Blue Flag beach stretches 4 km (2.5 miles) in a golden crescent between the villages of Keel and Dookinelly on Achill Island’s western coast. While it may not receive the same acclaim as nearby Keem Bay, just 3 km (1.9 miles) away, this mix of sand and pebbles offers its own beauty and attracts bodyboarders and surfers who brave the Atlantic waves. Swimmers should head to the western (Keel) end due to strong currents. Trawmore is also one of the most photographed beaches in Ireland, particularly from the Minaun Cliffs at its eastern end, which rise to 466 m (1528 ft) and provide a perfect viewpoint to capture the beach at its finest.

Planning tip: Achill Tourism provides valuable information for walking and cycling, along with a plethora of suggestions on accommodations and available services on the island.

3. Inch Strand, County Kerry

Stretching 5 km (3 miles) into Dingle Bay, this renowned sand spit is Ireland’s most famous beach, having featured in three major films. While its roles in Ryan’s Daughter (1970), Excalibur (1981), and Far and Away (1992) showcased its vast beauty, you truly need to feel the soft sand beneath your feet to grasp the charm of this Blue Flag beach in County Kerry. Facing west, Inch Strand offers excellent surf conditions, and during summer, local surf schools are busy teaching eager beginners to ride waves that can reach up to 3 m (10 ft). If surfing isn’t on your agenda, Inch is also a fantastic spot for birdwatching, though ultimately it’s about enjoying a leisurely stroll and a refreshing swim.

4. Banna Strand, County Kerry

While Inch Strand may be well-known, this expansive Blue Flag beach located about 13 km (8 miles) northwest of Tralee is a true local gem. On sunny summer weekends, or whenever the rain holds off, residents from Tralee and beyond flock here to stroll along its impressive 6 km (3.7 miles) of shoreline, making it one of Ireland’s largest beaches. Thanks to the warm waters of the Gulf Stream, swimming here is not as crazy as it might seem, especially on those lovely September days when the sea is pleasantly warm from a long summer. Even if you prefer to stay dry, the views from the 10 m (33 ft) high dunes are breathtaking—look southwest to see the magnificent Mt Brandon and the Dingle Hills.

Detour: Crag Cave was uncovered in 1983 when a search for the source of local river pollution led to its discovery. By 1989, 300 m (984 ft) of the 4 km (2.5 miles) cave was opened for guided tours, showcasing remarkable rock formations, including a stalagmite resembling a statue of the Madonna.

5. Dog’s Bay and Gurteen Bay, County Galway

The stunning, scalloped coastline of Connemara is home to some of the most beautiful beaches, none more so than the twin gems of the Errisbeg Peninsula, located just 3 km (1.9 miles) west of Roundstone. Separated by a unique dog-bone-shaped sand spit, Gurteen Bay and Dog’s Bay boast exquisite golden sands made from crushed seashells, offering a Caribbean-like ambiance unlike any other beach in the area.

Local tip: One of the best ways to experience the breathtaking coastline is by kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding. For lessons and equipment rentals, check out Roundstone Outdoors.

6. Trá Mór in Dunfanaghy, County Donegal

In Irish, 'trá mór' (or Tramore) simply means 'big beach,' and while many beaches share this name, this secluded treasure near the Horn Head peninsula is arguably the most picturesque. Reaching this stunning spot requires a bit of effort: from the arched bridge at the inlet's end marking Killahoey Beach, you’ll need to navigate through wind-swept grassy dunes for about 15 minutes. The reward is a beautifully isolated 2 km (1.2 miles) stretch of sand that feels like a hidden secret, perfect for keeping to yourself, especially on cooler days.

7. Ballymastocker Bay, County Donegal

The golden sands of Ballymastocker Bay, located on the western shore of Lough Swilly, extend nearly 2 km (1.2 miles) from the charming holiday village of Portsalon, also known as Portsalon Beach. This Blue Flag beach offers stunning views of the Inishowen Peninsula and is incredibly photogenic. As you approach via the scenic R268 Knockalla coastal drive, there’s a lookout point that provides an ideal view of the beach stretching all the way to Portsalon.

8. Killiney Beach, County Dublin

Among city beaches, the one in the southern suburb of Killiney, Dublin, stands out. This long, stony beach is flanked by some of Dublin's most exclusive residences, home to celebrities like Bono and Enya, who enjoy breathtaking views of Killiney Bay—a sight reminiscent of the Bay of Naples, which inspired the Italian street names in the area. The beach attracts swimmers, walkers, and families alike; on sunny days, it bustles with visitors, and the scenic walk from one end to the other is among Dublin's finest.

9. Ballyquin near Ardmore, County Waterford

Located about 5 km (3 miles) northeast of the charming seaside town of Ardmore, this hidden gem is a beautiful arc of white sand. At its eastern end, you'll find tidal rock pools, topped by the ruins of a former stud farm. Unlike the more popular Ardmore beach, Ballyquin remains relatively quiet, frequented by locals for morning swims and surf fishing in the evenings, where anglers try to catch flatfish or bass. To reach it, follow the road sign off the R673 for Goat Island.

10. Streedagh Strand, County Sligo

Among Sligo's impressive array of stunning beaches, the curving, dune-fringed Streedagh Strand is the top choice for swimmers. While nearby Strandhill and Mullaghmore are known for their surf, Streedagh's sheltered bay offers a calm swimming experience. The sand dunes behind the beach provide extra protection, and on clear days, you can enjoy unobstructed views north towards the beautiful Donegal mountains.

Insider tip: At low tide, you can catch a glimpse of the remnants of three ships that were wrecked here during the Spanish Armada in 1588.