Across the country to the Atlantic
Ireland's west coast is shaped by the full force of the Atlantic, and it has the beaches to prove it: wide golden strands, sheltered coves with turquoise water and dramatic surf breaks. The Wild Atlantic Way, a signposted touring route, follows this coastline from the north of County Donegal to Kinsale in County Cork.
From Dublin, you can drive across the country to the west coast in roughly two to three hours, depending on your destination. Galway is a popular gateway, with Connemara and County Clare close by.
Connemara and Galway
Connemara, west of Galway, is a landscape of bogs, lakes and mountains that meets the sea in a series of beautiful beaches. Dog's Bay and Gurteen Bay, near Roundstone, are twin crescents of pale sand formed from crushed shells, and on a sunny day their water looks almost Caribbean.
Further north, the beaches around Renvyle and the coast near Clifden offer quieter spots with mountain views.
Clare and Kerry
County Clare is home to the Cliffs of Moher and the surf town of Lahinch, where a long sandy beach is lined with surf schools. It is a good place to try surfing, with wetsuits and boards for hire.
In County Kerry, Inch beach on the Dingle Peninsula is a long spit of sand stretching into Dingle Bay, with views across to the mountains. The Dingle Peninsula itself has dozens of smaller beaches and coves, as well as the lively town of Dingle.
Mayo, Sligo and Donegal
Achill Island in County Mayo, connected to the mainland by a bridge, has Keem Bay, a sheltered horseshoe beach at the end of a winding cliff road. Strandhill in County Sligo is another surfing hub, with a beach backed by dunes and the mountain Knocknarea.
Donegal, in the far northwest, has some of the most remote and unspoilt beaches in the country, often with no one else in sight.
What to expect
Irish beaches are about the experience rather than the temperature. The water is cool year-round, and the weather can change several times a day. Pack a warm layer, a waterproof jacket and, if you plan to swim or surf, consider renting a wetsuit. Strong currents are a risk on some beaches, so swim only where it is known to be safe and watch for lifeguard flags in summer.
Good to know
- Pick up a rental car at Dublin Airport and head west.
- Pack for all weather, even in summer.
- Book surf lessons at Lahinch or Strandhill.