Ireland's best beaches with soft golden sands, cafes, shaded areas & spectacular island views
The Irish bathing season runs right up until September 15 - when waters are at their warmest.
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2GB5KWG Two people walking on Dog's Bay Beach, near Roundstone, Connemara, County Galway, Ireland
Credit: Alamy
Sea
With temperatures reaching near record-breaking levels over the weekend, Ireland is "highly likely" to have a warmer-than-average summer, according to Met Éireann.
And there is more sunshine expected this summer with above average temperatures and potentially drier conditions in the second half of July.
Here are five of the most breathtaking beaches with jaw-dropping views to check out over the next few weeks.
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PORTSALON BEACH
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Portsalon beach is one of the country's most breathtaking spots
Credit: Getty - Contributor
Also known as Ballymastocker
The glittering sand has even attracted Taylor Swift - who paid a visit to the beach in the summer of 2021.
The Blue Flag beach has clear water to swim in, plenty of waves for the surfers and sheltered coves for escaping the wind.
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It's a 20-minute spin from both Ramelton and Rathmullan, a 25-minute drive from Downings and a 30-minute drive from Letterkenny.
There's parking near the southern end of the beach, however, the car park can get crowded during the warmer summer months so you may have to arrive early to secure a spot.
Inside the stunning European resort of Quinta Do Lago - with all-year sunshine, luxury hotel and fantastic golf courses
There are also toilets on-site and a couple of picnic benches.
Life guards are on duty from June until September from 12.00pm - 18.30pm.
STRANDHILL BEACH
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Strandhill beach is one of the best spots in Europe for surfing
Credit: Getty
It is located a kilometre from Sligo town; the Strandhill beach lies along the Wild Atlantic Way.
And it has also been named one of the best locations in Europe for
Spanning around 11km long, the golden sand is perfect for long walks or days spent by the sea.
The route hosts stunning views of Knocknarea Mountain, Benbulben, Sligo Bay, and Coney Island.
The quaint holiday spot of Strandhill village runs along the beachfront.
It offers restaurants, shops, pubs, a golf course, and a large camping site.
From locals to those visiting, there are plenty of cafes to grab a coffee from and enjoy a stroll along the sand.
There are no life guards on site.
DOG'S BAY
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Dog's Bay in Co Galway is hugely popular for its pet friendly environment
Credit: Alamy
Dog's Bay in
is the perfect place to soak up the sun this summer.
Located just 3 kilometres from the village Roundstone in Galway, this spectacular horseshoe shape bay is known as one of the most
The beach stretches across the
Known for its stunning soft white sand that is made entirely from sea shell fragments, the beach has been
This beach is located an hour and a half from Galway City and offers a ton of opportunities for outdoor activities
Visitors can go for a dip in the Atlantic Ocean, and take in all the breathtaking views.
However, there are no life guards present.
This fabulous beach is also hugely popular for its pet friendly environment.
CURRACLOE BEACH
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Curracloe beach in Wexford is a great spot for family fun
Credit: Alamy
It is located in County
And the beach has shaded areas near the Raven Nature Reserve if you need a break from the heat - as temperatures are set to soar to 28C this weekend.
The golden strand is accompanied by hilly sand dunes where various plants bloom in spring and
There are around 500 parking spaces, the majority of which are at White Gap.
There are four disabled parking spaces at White Gap and two at Ballineskar.
You can also get a Beach Wheelchair for free at White Gap, though pre-booking is recommended through the warden.
There are male, female and disabled toilets available at White Gap, and just male and female amenities at Ballinesker.
BURROW BEACH
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Burrow beach has beautiful soft sand
Credit: Alamy
Burrow Beach in Sutton is a green flag Irish beach with spectacular island views is just half an hour from
The Dublin beach, stretching across 1.2 kilometers, is a well-known detour if you're passing Howth.
The popular beach boasts soft golden sand, sand dunes and a stunning view of Ireland's Eye.
Visitors might spot some kite surfers or wind surfers on windy days.
There are lifeguards on duty from 11am to 7pm on Saturdays and Sundays in June and every day from July to August.
It's the perfect spot for little ones to build sand castles with its soft golden sand.
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