Top Sea Swimming Spots in Ireland
Into the sea we go to lose our minds but find our souls. Jump into our round up of the top coastal swimming spots around Ireland.
There is no other feeling like being immersed in open water!
In addition to the mental and physical benefits of sea swimming, there is a wonderful sense of community amongst open water swimmers.
Swimming in the sea is a way to bond with others, it helps form and strengthen friendships.
Lucky for us, there is no shortage of sea swimming spots in Ireland, with over 900 miles of coastline it’s rich pickings. Sure, we don’t have the Mediterranean climate, but what I have discovered is people in Ireland are hardy and don’t let the cold put them off.
Here is a round up of my favourite coastal swimming spots (for directions to each spot just click on its name). Grab your togs and hit the coast!
Antrim
Instantly recognisable to any GOT fans, the Port of Pyke, I mean Ballintoy Harbour, is a haven for watersports. Accessed by a spectacular, winding road down the headland, this little harbour on the North Antrim Coast packs a lot in. From coasteering to paddle boarding, this quant harbour has seen it all - even spear fishing!
For one of the best swimming spots on the island of Ireland, head away from the harbour and start your ascent back up that winding road. Take the ‘blink and you’ll miss it’ left hand turn and follow the beaten path to the ‘secret’ beach. This east facing, golden sand beach is the perfect place to catch the sunrise and its clear, deep water makes for a lovely swim.
This beautiful coastal village in the heart of the Glens of Antrim is renowned for its unspoilt charm and distinctive architecture. You would be forgiven for thinking that you are along the Cornish coast as the village was designed in such a way to please the Penzance-born baroness of Cushendun. To bring you back to Celtic shores though, the village is seeped in folklore! Legend and lore has it that Tiveragh Fairy Hill overlooking Cusdendun is the gateway to Tír Na nÓg, a paradise and supernatural realm of everlasting youth, beauty, health and joy.
I cant promise you everlasting youth, but if you find yourself on Cushendun’s beautiful sandy beach, especially at sunset, you will be in swimming paradise.
After an evening’s swim head across to the lively, cosy Mary McBride’s pub for a pint in the snug at the front.
Dunseverick Castle, Bushmills, Co. Antrim
There are many swimming options at Dunseverick on the Causeway Coast! Swim in the shadow of Dunseverick Castle, an ancient royal site of the Dál Riada, a Gaelic kingdom from the 5th Century. Dive in from The Slough, a deep inlet on this rugged coastline or muck around in the clear rock pools as they fill from the Atlantic at high tide.
Clare
Cove, Kilkee Cliff Walk, Co. Clare
Fancy a swim in Kilkee, where do I start? From a beautiful sandy beach to the famous pollock holes there are no shortage of places to get your fix in this pretty Victorian seaside town. My favourite is this hidden, off-rock spot. To find this gem, park in the east end car park and join the Kilkee Cliff Walk for 500m. Keep a look-out on the left for a path leading into the rocks (if you reach the golf club you’ve gone a little too far). Turning into concrete steps, this pathway will bring you to a beautiful hunk of rock from which you can easily get in and out of the crystal clear water.
This surfing hotspot in the lively and welcoming seaside town of Lahinch is also a great swimming spot when the water is flat. The flooding tide turns the crescent shaped sandy beach into a wonderful swimming pool complete with slip-ways that lead straight into the water (so none of that wading-in faff!)
At high tide on a calm day, glide into the Atlantic and enjoy a swim in the beautiful Liscannor Bay. Its westerly location makes it a great spot for a sunset swim.
Cork
Tucked away from the main road through Sheep’s Head Peninsula and completely hidden behind the renowned Tin Pub, you will find a quiet and secluded bay. Park up at the pub and take the forested path down to the sea. Time your swim with high tide and sunrise to find yourself in swimming heaven as this little beach is transformed into a calm lagoon. If you are swimming later in day don’t miss a post-dip pint in the Tin Pub with its warm welcome and spectacular sea-side beer garden, you might even get a glimpse of its famous next door neighbour.
Sunrise at Ahakista
This golden beach just outside the colourful village of Allihes is a beautiful place for a swim. Lush, rolling hills of the Beara Peninsula fade into the Atlantic as the clear water laps the sandy shore. Double down on the health benefits of sea swimming by combining your dip with a visit to the Allihies Sauna perched on the edge of the beach and grab a coffee after at the cute caravan across the road.
Tucked away from the main seafront there is a little pebble cove (locals, if you know the name let me know) that provides an outstanding backdrop to a swim. With views of The Beacon and Sherkin Island, this sheltered outlet is great for a dip or a longer swim into the bay. To find it, start your way up Beacon Road but before continuing up the hill you will spot a grass up the middle laneway edged with beautiful boarders of wild flowers. Continue up the lane to the cove and enjoy your swim and the views.
This golden beach located between Goleen and Crookhaven makes for a lovely stop whilst exploring the Mizen Head peninsula. I have never been able to have more than a dip here due to the tide times during my visits (if the footbridge is down it is hard to access the main beach at high tide) but what a place to dip! Afterwards head to the award-winning O’Sullivan’s Bar for a warm welcome. This dog-friendly, traditional pub serves a classic crab sandwich, delicious chowder and a great pint of Guinness. Grab a table inside if its nippy or by the sea edge to drink in the views.
What is it about swimming off an island that makes a dip in the sea seem even more adventurous? At the entrance to the magnificent Bantry Bay, guarding the harbour of Berehaven, lies the beautiful Bere Island. Taking a plunge from the shores of Bere with Slieve Miskish and the Caha Mountain ranges on the Beara Peninsula providing a dramatic backdrop, is magical.
There are many spots around the island for a swimming, including a couple of sandy coves, but my favourite is one that we found by chance. At the end of a meandering lane, we found a pile of lobster pots which, to our surprise, was hiding a set of well engineered steps into the sea, complete with hand railings furnished out of ropes. The steps guide you into the clear water of a sheltered bay peppered with brightly coloured row boats and magnificent views over the bay. This spot is so remote I can’t find a name for it, so best use What3Words: freshen.withdrawing.insists
Fancy a swim at Ireland’s most south westerly point? Hop on one of the regular ferries from Baltimore or Schull and journey across the Atlantic to Cape Clear Island to discover paradise. Whilst the island is awash with beauty, culture and history it does not have an abundance of safe swimming spots. So, join the locals and holiday makers and jump into the pristine jewel coloured water at the north harbour and afterwards pop into Sean Rua’s or Cotters for a pint. Another great (more secluded) swim spot is at the south harbour.
“We think we have unknowing come on holiday to Mauritius" proclaimed a lovely couple of holidaymakers as we chatted on this perfect beach. Located at southern tip of the Beara Peninsula, this white sandy beach with its crystal clear waters boasts stunning views of Dursey Island.
There are few swimming spots as magical as Lough Hyne, Ireland’s glow in the dark lake. This saltwater lake in West Cork is a place of peaceful serenity that is steeped in local folklore and home to an enormous variety of plants and animals, many of which are not found anywhere else in Ireland.
This seemingly landlocked lake is in fact connected to the Atlantic by a narrow tidal channel known as The Rapids creating a marine lake that is a magnet for biologists due to its unique ecosystem.
For something completely different, take a starlight dip at night when the water of Lough Hyne comes alive with bioluminescence! With each stroke, space dust shimmers as the phosphorescence is aglow.
To earn your swim, why not first climb Mount Knockoumah for sunset and get rewarded with stunning views of the Lough and out to the Atlantic Ocean.
The best spots are always those hidden in plain sight. Tucked away in the heart of Glengarriff we found a magical harbour that is a popular swimming spot with locals. Head to the harbour where the Blue Pool Ferry leaves for Garnish Island (I believe you can swim in this pool too) and head up the hill and through the trees where you will find two swimming points where steps carved into the rocks provide safe entrance points. Copy the local seals and swim to pontoon to bathe in the sun and take advantage of the wonderful West Cork climate.
Turquoise waters lap the white sandy shores on Sherkin Island
Sherkin Island in Roaringwater Bay is swimming heaven with so many pristine beaches to choose from. From the very remote Hard Strand (which is perfect for skinny dipping) to the white sanded Trabawn Strand (pictured) the island has it all. Silver Strand, a blue flag beach on the west of the island is perfect for all ages to get into the sea. With its golden sand and magnificent views of neighbouring Cape Clear Island, this beach is the perfect spot for a dip and sip. Pack a picnic and take the 10 minute ferry across from Baltimore. As you cross Baltimore Bay, past the iconic Beacon, get excited for what lies ahead.
This Atlantic Island is wild and unspoilt! Little grass beaten paths will lead you around the island with sea views coming from every angle. Wild flowers are everywhere and blankets of bluebells give colour to your walk.
After your swim (or swims let's be real) warm up with coffee from Mike and Kathy's bohemian North Shore cafe and before you board the boat for your return, pop into the Jolly Roger for a great pint with amazing views.
Donegal
Bundoran’s Spectacular Rockpools
Bundoran in the south-east corner of Donegal Bay has two outdoor pools, both formed by nature, but with a little helping hand from locals. Sea walls have been built to enclose the rock pools and offer protection from the swell of the Atlantic creating safe spots for swimming in this otherwise exposed section of the coast.
West End Pool (or Nun’s Pool) is on the Sligo side of the town and is accessed via Shene Avenue (best not to park here as it is a small residential street, there is a free car park next to Peter Brady Park). Turn right at the end of Shene Avenue looking in the direction of the main town and you will notice a set of stairs immediately on the left leading down to a shore of impressive black slabs of Bundoran Shale spotted with yellow lichen. The slabs make a great entrance point into the water, but thoughtful locals have carved steps into the rock making it even easier to get and out of the pool. With wide angle views of the Bay and Sliabh Liag, the West End Pool is a specular spot for a swim. When you dry off head to Buoys and Gulls or Foam for great coffee.
North of the town centre you will find the second sea water swimming pool. Larger, but shallower than the West Side Pool, Thrupenny (I’m told it was named after the cost of a swim) is much more accessible than its south-side sister. A gently sloping ramp leads down to a sandy beach right beside the pool so this inclusionary spot is suitable for everybody.
Both pools are tidal so check the tides and be aware of incoming tides.
Photo Credit: Cocoon
Portnablagh Harbour, Co. Donegal
Portnablagh Harbour has been my lifelong favourite swimming spot in Donegal. With its stone pier, soft sand and stunning views of Horn Head, this little horseshoe beach is perfect for a dip no matter how high the tide is. Colourful buoys bob in the water as little boats come and go. Kayakers and paddleboarders launch themselves from the shore whilst locals jump from the pier.
Now there is another great reason to plan a swim at Portnablagh. Earlier this year, Donegal’s first wood fired sauna parked up on the pier. Inspired by similiar saunas dotted around the Irish coast, the lads behind Cocoon Sauna packed up and brought wellness to the shores of Donegal. Combining the benefits of traditional sauna with the natural healing properties of the sea, Cocoon offers a chance to relax and connect with nature. It is also a great social hub, each time we have been we have met great people and enjoyed the chats in the pod and had great craic pier jumping together.
The Cove, Marble Hill Beach, Co. Donegal
Sheltered from the Atlantic in Sheephaven Bay, Marble Hill is a beautiful blue flag beach framed by dunes and trees. At hide tide the beach is spilt into two sections creating a little cove that becomes a wonderful swimming pool. Check the tide times (cutest app - High Tides) and join the other dippers then head straight to The Shack for locally roasted coffee and a cheese toastie to warm up or pop into the mobile sauna parked at the beach edge.
If you fancy a thrill, clamber over the rocks and cliff-dive into ‘Harry’s Hole’ or take the scenic route to Portnablagh along Rock Hill, one of the most spectacular roads in Ireland, and have the craic pier-jumping in the Harbour.
Pincher Bay, Fanad Head, Co.Donegal
Fanad is a peninsula of hidden gems including the “secret beach” that we spotted on a return visit to Fanad Lighthouse. As we peered across the bay from the grounds of the lighthouse, a beautiful sandy cove caught our attention. We watched as the turquoise waters lapped the shoreline and we couldn’t resist! We had to find a way down to the cove. The friendly lighthouse guard was only too happy to help as he enthusiastically give us great directions that involved using ‘the white house with the two chimneys’ as a key landmark (welcome to Ireland!).
The beach is accessed via private land and the owner welcomed us across his field which leads down to the soft, golden shore of Pincher Bay. We set up camp, laying out a picnic of local farmhouse beers and cheese and spent the afternoon getting in and out of the ocean drinking in the view of the lighthouse as we swam in the clear waters of the Atlantic.
As a post swim treat, head back up the hill to the Lighthouse Tavern for a pint of Guinness, a warm welcome and unbeatable views.
Along the Wild Atlantic Way and just three kilometers off the coast of mainland Donegal you will find one of Ireland’s most stunning islands, Inishbofin.
Inhabited only part of the year by a handful of families, you will feel like you have this small paradise island to yourself. Head straight to the east beach at Tobar an Ghlasáin for a peaceful swim in the tranquil bay. The water is clear and turquoise blue and the views of neighbouring Tory Island and Inishdooey are breathtaking. Relax and remove yourself from all of life’s noise.
The good news is that this remote island is now with easy reach with regular 10 minute crossings from Magheroarty Pier Boffin Ferry.
Lucky Shell, Ard’s Forest Park
Hands down, this golden cove is one of my favorite beach in Donegal which, giving the quality of the beaches in Ireland’s ‘forgotten county’ says a lot about this beautiful bay. Nestled between two headlands on the northern tip of Ard’s Forest Park, this sheltered cove is a lovely bathing spot and one of the few beaches in Ireland where forest bleeds into the shore. Typically, a very quiet beach you can be guaranteed a peaceful swim no matter what time of the year. This is my go-to beach for a New Year’s Day swim. Having the 1st of January swim in this secluded cove followed by a picnic around a little beach fire is my favorite way to kick off a new year.
Accessed by foot (or boat), park up at either Ard’s Friary or Coillte’s official car park and enjoy the coast hugging walk to Lucky Shell Beach drinking in the spectacular views across Sheephaven Bay and the gem-coloured water.
The Pond, Quay Road, Dungloe, Co. Donegal
There is very little information available about this wonderful tidal pool in Donegal, but it sure keeps you guessing. You don’t know what you’re going to get until you arrive, but if you are lucky and the pool is full and the tide is in (the two don’t go hand in hand in Dungloe!) then you will feel like you are swimming in a Norwegian fjord rather than the Irish coast.
Sliver Strand, Malin Beg, Co. Donegal
The incredible Silver Strand Beach is nestled in Malin Beg, a secluded bay on the Slieve League Peninsula along the Wild Atlantic Way.
The Caribbean-esque water (in colour, not temperature) contrasts perfectly against the cliffs that hug this horseshoe beach making it one of Ireland’s most dramatic places to swim. As its faces west, you would be hard pressed to find a better beach for a sunset swim.
Down
Skippingstone Beach, Bangor, Co. Down
This once ‘ladies-only’ Victorian bathing spot in the seaside town of Bangor was popular in the late 1800s and early 1900s. Sadly, it fell out of favour and into disrepair in the 1940s, but its ship came in when the local Dash&Splash group, together with funding from LiveHereLoveHere brought it back to life.
From the marina in Bangor follow the coastal path until you come across this little beach. With the sugary coloured promenade-lined houses behind you and stunning views across Belfast Lough, you’ll find it hard to leave the water.
Photo Credit @Jenni_Quinn
Jenny Watt’s Cove, Bangor, Co Down
The most spectacular swimming spot on the North Down coast must be Jenny Watt’s Cove. Named after folklore legend, Jenny Watts, a pirate smuggler who became a local hero as she shared the spoils of her activities amongst the poor of the local community. This gorgeous cove named in her honor is home to soft coral and starfish and is a popular spot for local divers and swimmers.
This beautiful sandy beach on the shores of Belfast Lough is only a 20 minute drive from Belfast. With spectacular scenery and excellent water quality, Helen's Bay is an ideal bathing spot.
If you fancy a flow before your dip, join Connect Yoga at sunrise for a practice on the beach to get your body and mind ready for the Sea.
Dublin
Dublin's most famous swimming spot needs no introduction. People have been swimming at this promontory on the southern tip of Dublin Bay for 250 years. Come rain or shine, its loyal fans visit the Forty Foot 365 days a year. Made famous by James Joyce in ‘Ulysses’ and named one of the top 10 swimming spots in the world by the New York Times, the Forty Foot is a sea swimming experience like no other.
Head to Sandycove and follow the sound of the crowds as they chat whilst drying off or scream as they jump from the high rocks. There is a lovely swimming community here and if you’re lucky you’ll find yourself talking to the ‘Queen of the Forty Foot' a lady who swims there everyday of the year. She’s an inspiration and gives other swimmers such encouragement.
As if this bathing spot couldn't get any better, you can book a sauna pod for your private use and treat yourself to a blast of heat after your cold dip (EDIT: Fad Saoil Sauna is now on tour so follow them on Instagram to see where they pop-up next.)
The curiously named island off the coast of Dublin is a sight to behold.
Ireland’s Eye is a tiny uninhabited island that is home to thousands of seabirds including gannets, guillemots, and puffins. Easily accessible from Howth by kayak, SUP or boat, the island is begging to be explored. Pack your togs and a picnic and head across to the island where you will find an explosion of colour from lichen covered craggy rocks to meadows of wild flowers. Hike through blankets of sea pinks and cow parsley to find the spectacular sea stack, majestic cliffs and the ruins of what was once Howth village's parish Church.
The island has an idyllic beach that ideal for swimming. With its soft golden sand and clear water, this west-facing beach is a safe haven for swimming.
Photo Credit Ciarán Cassidy
One of Dublin’s most popular swimming hotspots, Seapoint is my go-to pool at high tide and the perfect place to swim all year round due to its sheltered location. During late spring and summer the blue flag beach is full of sun bathers and in the shoulder months, tranquillity kicks in. With views over the bay, drink in the sights of the famous Poolbeg chimneys and the rugged landscape of Howth as you swim.
Seapoint’s location is its biggest draw. Located on the east coast means early birds are treated to stunning sunrises on clear days. It is easily accessible with one of the city’s most scenic cycle routes and the train line running along the coast.
Eternal youth comes as a bonus as it is said that the Martello Tower that stands guard at the inlet bestows long life and youth on those who swim in its shadow. I’ll swim to that!
Dublin has long had a tradition of al fresco swimming but you’d be forgiven for thinking you have hit the Italian coast when you transcend the hidden steps to this secluded bathing spot just off Vico Road in Killiney. Step off the rocks into the inky water and if you’re lucky, you might get a visit from the resident porpoises.
Vico has long been the choice of local naturists so swimsuits are optional but fear not, togs are allowed!
Galway
Trá An Dóilín (Coral Strand), Co. Galway
Trá An Dóilín in County Galway is very unique in that the shore is made up entirely of coral! This beautiful Blue Flag beach is located just outside Carraroe village and is famed for its golden coral shore and clear blue waters making it a perfect spot for swimming and snorkelling.
Blackrock, Salthill, Co.Galway
The iconic sunshine yellow diving tower at Blackrock provides a great backdrop to a swim in Salthill. Built in the 1950s and still going strong, the diving tower attracts swimmers of all ages all year round. We finished our Bay Coast roadtrip with a swim in the clear waters of Galway Bay and discovered a really friendly community of bathers. We also witnessed the most Irish thing ever, a little girl standing on the top level of the diving board wearing her first holy communion dress - as if Roddy Doyle wrote it himself!
We will never forget the first time we saw Glassilaun beach! We were on a Wild Atlantic Way road-trip during the famous Irish heat wave of 2018. Desperate for a dip to cool down we discovered this gem and couldn’t believe our luck. I always let my mind wander here when I’m in need of TLSea.
This white sand beach in Connemara is set to the backdrop of impressive mountains and has the clearest turquoise waters. Think if Ireland and the Seychelles had a beach baby! This perfect beach is a dream swimming location and you'll find it between Renvyle and Leenane so once you’ve worked up an appetite, head to the Misunderstood Heron for a post swim feast with the most spectacular view of Killary Fjord.
Silverstrand, Barna, Co. Galway
This sandy, shallow beach in Galway Bay is a calm spot for a low tide swim. Banded by dramatic white cliffs with the coastline of neighboring County Clare ahead, swimming at Silverstrand provides panoramic views and gives you stunning landscape on your outward and return swim.
Kerry
We are always on the hunt for pitch perfect saunas and Bébhinn nailed it when she choose Cromane Strand as the home for Samhradh’s Sauna. Samhradh (sour-a) is the Gaelic for ‘summer’ so by giving her sauna this cheery name, Bébhinn set out to create a year round warm space. Even on the coldest, wettest day in Kerry you can still enjoy a swim in the Atlantic by hopping into this cosy sauna with its breathtaking views of the MacGillycuddy’s Reeks, Brandon Mountain Range and Slieve Mish.
Afterwards drop into the cute Boathouse Cafe for a coffee with a view or head to the nearby village of Glenbeigh for lunch in Emilie’s cool little bakery and lifestyle store (her stone oven baked pizza’s are delicious!)
One of the most remote beaches in Ireland’s ‘Kingdom,’ this Kerry beach is a magical spot for swimming. The Atlantic is calmer in this nook of Kilmurry Bay making its clear waters a perfect place for a dip. Accessible via a small country road, this crescent shaped beach is nestled between the majestic ruins of the Minard Castle and sea cliffs that sweep into the ocean.
This pristine beach is a peaceful place that you will most likely have to yourself. Whilst swimming drink in the views of the Ring of Kerry across the bay and warm up afterwards with brunch in nearby Báinín.
Ventry Bay Beach on the stunning Dingle Peninsula is a blue flag beach that is a perfect swimming spot. This beautiful crescent shaped beach located in the Gaeltacht village of Ventry is a safe place to swim or dip either from the golden sand shore or off the little pier.
Incorporate your swim into a drive along Slea Head for breath-taking views of the Blasket Islands and Dunquin Harbour.
After your dip head to the legendary Páidí Ó Sé's Pub for a pint of the black stuff and a bowl of chowder.
Mayo
The Cove, Clare Island, Co. Mayo
Fancy playing at being a Pirate Queen?
Clare Island off the coast of County Mayo was once owned by the infamous 16th century pirate and head of the O’Malley clan, Gráinne Ní Mháille. From her earliest days she rejected the role of the 16th century woman instead, embracing life on the sea along the rugged west coast of Ireland where she ruled the waves for decades.
Under the watchful eye of the lighthouse, the island’s original pier and harbour can be found in a sheltered cove. This cove is a perfect swimming spot when the sea is calm, complete with a waterfall and steps for getting in and out. Part of the adventure is finding this little cove!
Swimming at the Reek! Old Head Beach is a picturesque beach at the edge of a forest that boasts specular views of Croagh Patrick. Protected by cliffs and woodland and enclosed by a large pier, its sheltered location makes it perfect for swimming and cooling down after climbing Ireland’s sacred mountain. At high tide it becomes a popular pier jumping spot.
Sligo
Adventure comes with finding Bishop’s Pool, located outside the seaside village of Mullaghmore. As you bypass the village, past the majestic Castle Cassiebawn, you find yourself on a narrow coast road that provides sweeping views of neighbouring Donegal and the spectacular Sliabh Liag (sea cliffs). You have to clamber down a grassy hill (not steep) and over volcanic rock before you get to this rock pool shaped like a bishop's crozier.
A sheltered, natural swimming pool, Bishop’s Pool is perfect for a dip when travelling along the Sligo leg of the Wild Atlantic Way. Big, flat slabs of rock double up as a picnic spot where you can dry off and drink in the views.
The pool empties and fills with the tide so make sure you plan your visit for high tide.
The Pool at Dead Man’s Point, Rosses Point
Folklore would have it that this spot on Rosses Point peninsula got it name from the burying of a sailor in a shallow grave on the headland, along with a loaf of bread and a shovel should he wake.
Daunting name aside, the Pool at Dead Man’s Point is class. Framed at either side by a pier creating a safe pool for swimming (there are even loads access points with swimming ladders installed and steps carved into the rocks) with lovely views of Coney and Oyster Island, as well as the sandy breach at Rosses Point. We loved this swim spot for convenience and craic - its a popular place for local sea swimmers to meet so there is a great, buzzy atmosphere.
Why not make an event of your swim and book a session with Hot Box, a traditional Finnish Woodfired Sauna to warm up between your dips. You can always head round to Austies or Harrys for a post swim pint and a plate of oysters or if you are swimming earlier in the day, The Driftwood and The Little Cottage Cafe serve great coffee and breakfast.
Trawalua Strand, Mullaghmore Head
Fancy a skinny dip? Who doesn’t!
We luckily bagged a local’s tip that Trawalua Strand is a popular beach with naturalists. If you fancy a dip in the nip go to the more secluded right-hand side of this lovely soft sandy beach down as far as the rocks.
Situated south of Mullaghmore Head, Trawalua Strand feels like secret spot. It is accessible only by foot or boat, making this 6km beach peaceful and secluded. There is a gentle walk from the car park through grassy dunes that leads to an opening onto the beach. Amazing first impressions were formed by the commanding views over the fairy-tale esque Classiebawn Castle hugging the headland. Turn around and you will be treated to great views of Benbulben mountain in the distance.
Swimming isn’t advised as there are strong currents along the shore of Trawalua so keep this a dip spot and stay safe.
Waterford
Starting in one of Ireland’s most picturesque fishing villages, the Dunmore East Cliff Walk is a spectacular 8km (one-way) coastal trail that takes in three perfect swimming spots, Portally Cove, Rathmoylan Cove and onto Ballymacaw Cove. Pack three swim suits for the trip as you will want to dip in each of the coves.
Stay overnight in your own cove by spending a few nights in the stylish beach-side Nissen Hut in Rathmoylan Cove. This dog-friendly beach house is one of our favourite Airbnb’s in Ireland. Waking up to the sound of the sea lapping the shore and taking a dip before breakfast is the perfect start to the day. From here you can join the cliff walk in each direction and have the perfect night by walking along the coast to Dunmore Easy for oysters, lobster roll and prosecco in local hotspot, East Pier.
This oddly named beach 5km from the pretty town of Ardmore is swimming Nirvana. The south-facing beach is sheltered by both the cliffs and the little island that gives the cove its name making it a calm and serene place to take a dip. The soft sand is a joy to walk along and during low tide you can try your hand at abseiling or rock climbing with Ardmore Adventures. If you fancy even more of a thrill, join the locals when the tide is in for some cliff jumping!
Wexford
This secluded, sheltered cove in Fethard is the perfect place for a swim. Located on the eastern side of Wexford’s Hook Peninsula, it benefits from the south east coast’s micro-climate (it isn’t called ‘the sunny south east’ for nothing!) With its soft, golden sands this crescent shaped cove makes a beautiful bathing spot due to the mostly calm waters. Catch the sunrise from here or pitch-up for a spot of wild camping. Join Livin’ off the Hook’s beach morning yoga class or head out on the water for an adventure with The Irish Experience to discover Mór 😉.
Hot coffee is never too far away these days. To warm up immediately after your swim, head to the black shipping container in the car park or venture back to Fethard village for a real treat at neighbourhood brunch spot, Grálinn.
Wicklow
This small secluded beach in Wicklow has laid back vibes and pristine sand. The beach is accessed from the main road via a beautiful country lane, lined with ferns and wild flowers. Sheltered by the hugging cliffs, Magheramore looks like it belongs on the Wild Atlantic Way, but its clear calm waters during the summer will bring you right back to the east cost. As the seasons change, this little beach becomes a popular surf spot where you can rent a board if you fancy joining the line up.
Let’s grow the list! Get in touch and share your favourite wild swimming spots #senddippics but first…some safety features.
Time your swim with the high tide.
Read Irish Water Safety’s tips on open water swimming and check out the Outdoor Swimming Society's best practices.
Swim with a friend or a friendly stranger.
Plan your swim and swim your plan.
Warm up fast and head first, have cosy layers such a hat, a dry robe and thick socks laid out on the shore.
If you are new to open water swimming start in the warmer months and acclimatise to the cold water by swimming regularly.
Stay in your own depth and swim parallel to the shore - there’s no need for Billy Big Balls antics.
