Ireland's Best Sea Swims

Ireland’s Best Sea Swims 

Ireland is blessed with an abundance of beautiful beaches and lakes. For wild swimmers, and even the more tentative bathers there are so many spectacular choices. The exhilaration of plunging into the icy cold waters is enhanced by the glorious backdrop of Ireland’s scenic coastline. Swim safe by researching your chosen spot in advance. Happy paddling, and here are some of our favourite spots.  

Leinster: 

The Forty Foot, Sandycove, Co Dublin: 

Located in Sandycove, the Forty Foot, is idyllic for a salty sea swim. Named as one of the best places to swim in the world by The New York Times, people from across the globe have ventured to the Forty Foot to take a dip in the Irish Sea! There are ladders to help people to enter the water at their own pace, while those seeking a thrill can dive into the crashing waves from the Forty Foot's promontory. This is one of Ireland's most popular spots to swim at, so it is busy at peak times but there are shops and places to grab a coffee and a snack nearby after your salty excursion. 

The Vico Bathing Place, Co Dublin: 

Hidden away from the bustling world above, this swimming spot, located in Killiney, is very secluded. Situated on the Dart Line, the Vico Baths showcase stunning scenery and has a changing area so you can get out of your wet clothes into something dry and warm if your are going on somewhere else. There are steps down to the water and a perch from which you can jump or dive. For those who do not want to face the waves and prefer a more tranquil swim there is a seawater pool nearby. This bathing spot gets very busy so time your swim to avoid the crowds.

Morriscastle Beach, Co Wexford:

If white, sandy beaches and fresh seawater are what you dream of, then Morriscastle beach is the place for you. Located in Kilmuckridge, Co Wexford, this blue flag beach ticks all the boxes for a family-friendly day out. Known as the Golden Mile, this beach is one of the longest in Ireland, surrounded by sand dunes, perfect for walks and picnics. The waters of this pristine beach are clear and clean with a gentle slope so you can ease into your swim. There are usually lifeguards on duty close to the water and toilet facilities available, including disabled access facilities. Morriscastle Beach is just a short drive from Kilmuckridge town and is surrounded by holiday parks for those who want to extend their stay and take daily trips to swim in the sea. 

Munster:

Lough Hyne, Co Cork: 

Lough Hyne is a saltwater lake in West Cork connected to the sea by rapids. Despite being almost entirely landlocked, this magnificent lough contains sea flora and fauna. Lough Hyne and its crystal-clear waters offer swimmers a unique swimming experience. Lie back on the water and bask in the fresh air, salty water and surrounding woods. With its rich history and great location, this is a popular spot. Located just 6km from Baltimore in West Cork, Lough Hyne was named Ireland's first Marine Nature Reserve in 1981. 

Derrynane Beach, Co Kerry: 

Kerry has no shortage of beautiful beaches and places to swim. There are wonderful spots like Ballybunion Beach, Inch Beach or Rossbeigh Beach. But our choice is Derrynane beach. This gorgeous, sandy stretch resides in Derrynane Bay and is on the Ring of Kerry. Derrynane Beach is extremely popular because of its water’s cleanliness and breath-taking views. It is also ideal for swimming throughout the year. If you fancy something a little more exhilarating, water sports are available. 

Ulster:

Rossnowlagh Beach, Co Donegal

Stretching from the cliffs at Coolmore in the south, to the rock outcrop at Carrickfad, Rossnowlagh Beach is famous as one of the island’s main surfing beaches. Just eight kilometres from Donegal Town the beautiful wide expanse of soft golden sand is lovely for walking, whiling away a few hours watching the surfers and breathing in the clear sea air. It is also great for swimming and paddling and is very popular with locals and tourists. The local surf school can help with teaching and equipment rental for all levels from beginners upwards.

Ballintoy Harbour, Co Antrim: 

If you are a fan of Game of Thrones you might recognise our next selection. Ballintoy Harbour is a quiet, peaceful oasis on Antrim's coastline. It is well-sheltered and has clean, calm waters. Some swimmers have even been lucky enough to spot seals in the harbour. Located on the Causeway Coastal Route, Ballintoy Harbour is a tranquil place for a swim. There is also a small café nearby that serves teas, coffees and cakes to help you warm up after a chilly dip.

Blue Lough Mourne Mountains, Co Down: 

Well known by hill hikers for its trails, Blue Lough is in Annalong Valley at the heart of the Mourne Mountains. Blue Lough is lovely for a refreshing swim after a strenuous trek through the mountains but it gets busy during the holiday season so an early start is advised. Surrounded by the mountains and steeped in nature this is a wonderful place to revitalise the body, mind and soul.

Connaught:

Keem Bay, Achill, Co Mayo: 

Mayo is a county with an abundance of Blue Flag beaches. One of the most popular, with good cause, is Keem Bay in Achill. You will find this glorious beach in the valley between the slopes of Croaghaun mountain and Moyteoge Head. Keem Bay's clear Atlantic waters are perfect for swimming. Drawing thousands of visitors every year, the bay offers a range of water-based activities. Why not try snorkelling or try some surfing? 

Salthill Beach, Co Galway:

Salt Hill is one of Ireland's best-known and popular beaches - well really it is a series of smaller beaches. Just two kilometres from Galway City and accessible by foot, car or public transport, Salthill has something for everyone. Some of the beaches are sandy and some pebbled, all of which are ideal for swimming. This is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, the waters are safe and watched over by lifeguards during peak times. 

For advice on safe places and times to swim visit watersafety.ie