Rated Beaches in Ireland

Sheltered beaches seem to be a thing in Ireland – luckily for us! Derrynane Beach, another must-visit on your tour of the Ring of Kerry, is surrounded by large hills and grassy cliffs. The water is a dreamy azure, while the clean, white sand is ideal for sandcastle building.

Searching for the best beaches near Dublin? Look no further than the Velvet Strand, a name given to multiple beaches within a stone's throw of the giant city. Portmarnock Beach, in the town of Portmarnock, is one of the best.

The Di**le peninsula is filled with fabulous beaches (we're looking at you, Inch Beach). Coumeenoole, on Slea Head Drive near Di**le, is one of them. On a sunny day, the turquoise water appears tropical as it crashes into the golden shore. Low tide is the best time to visit, as you'll have more sand to explore and an ability to get up close and personal with the imposing jagged cliffs.

Touring Ireland without visiting the Ring of Kerry is like leaving Wimbledon before the tennis matches begin. Its giant hills, flourishing countryside, and verdant mountains leave travelers in awe of the natural beauty this lush country has to offer.

Who would have thought they'd find paradise on a Donegal beach? This crescent-shaped marvel opens to crystal-clear turquoise water that begs you to jump in. On both sides are dramatic cliffs and graceful waterfalls that help reset your inner stress button.

A popular beach destination for locals and tourists alike, Strandhill is a wonderful place to take lessons in everything from bodyboarding to surfing. It's located only about eight kilometers from Sligo and its many things to do outdoors.

Shaped like a horseshoe, this Galway beach is a must-see for beach lovers. Dog's Bay sits back to back with Guerteen Bay, a similarly beautiful beach just off the road to Clifden. Both are within a few minutes' drive, or an easy walk, from Roundstone village.

Another Blue Flag beach, Banna Strand is backed by sand dunes rising to 40 feet. It's a great area for surfing and windsurfing, and the shallow waters make it a popular vacation spot for families. Surrounded by rolling hills, you'll be able to walk for miles when the tide is out. A paved path running behind the beach is ideal for bikes or strollers.

Located on the Di**le Peninsula in southwest Ireland, Inch beach is a must-visit on your tour of the best beaches in Ireland. Crashing waves caress the golden sand of this finger-shaped peninsula as they bring avid surfers back to shore. Swimming here is a treat (albeit a cold one). Where else can you kick your way toward lush rolling hills?

This southern Ireland beach is one of the island's best attributes. Free from stones and litter, the soft, white sand is perfect for a long, barefoot walk. Time your stroll for low tide, when you can venture even farther from shore into the crystal-clear water.