The Best Swim Spots in and Around Dublin

If you're spending your high school summer abroad in Dublin, you're in for more than just amazing classes, cozy pubs, and lively city life. Dublin is also home to some truly beautiful and refreshing seaside spots. Taking the train out to the ocean became a pivotal part of my time interning for CIEE Dublin over the summer. I ventured to places like Dalkey, Malahide, Sandycove, Howth ,and Sutton to take a dip in the Irish sea.

I'll share some of my favorite spots, how to get there and what to look out for when you're swimming in and around Dublin. 

1. The Forty Foot, Sandycove

A local legend, the Forty Foot is one of the most iconic sea swimming spots in Ireland. Located in Sandycove, if you're feeling brave you can go for a cliff jump into the deep waters below!

How to get there:

Take the DART from Dublin city center to either Dún Laoghaire or Sandycove & Glasthule station. It's just a short 5-minute walk from the Sandycove station or you can take a longer walk along the water and walk the pier in Dún Laoghaire.

2. Howth Beach (Balscadden Bay)

Tucked away beneath the cliffs near the Howth Cliff Walk, this lesser-known beach is quiet and picturesque. The water is clean, calm, and perfect for a relaxing swim post-hike.

How to get there:

Hop on the DART to Howth station. Walk through the village and follow the signs for the Cliff Walk — Balscadden Bay is just below the path.

3. Dalkey Beach (Whiterock and Killiney Beach)

Dalkey offers several fantastic swimming options. Whiterock Beach is smaller and more secluded, while Killiney Beach is broader and ideal for a longer swim.

How to get there:

Take the DART to Dalkey or Killiney station, depending on your chosen beach. Both are within walking distance.

4. Malahide Beach

Malahide’s long sandy stretch is perfect for wading, walking, or a leisurely swim. The town of Malahide is a great stop with a traditional castle, many shops and ice cream on the pier. 

How to get there:

DART to Malahide station. The beach is just a short walk from the town center.

5. Sutton Beach

Less crowded than its neighboring spots, Sutton Beach offers calm waters, flat and sandy beach, and beautiful views of Dublin Bay. Heads up that there's not much to eat in the town of Sutton, I packed a snack and ate on the beach. 

How to get there:

Take the DART to Sutton station. The beach is only a few minutes away on foot from the train station.

Pro Tips:

1. Before going, check water conditions on Beaches.ie for water conditions! Often times after heavy rain the water quality can drop and it can be unsafe to swim.
2. Look out for "NO SWIMMING" signs. They are there for a reason! 

Ready to dive into a summer abroad with CIEE? Check out our high school summer abroad programs, and consider enrolling today!