If you really want to immerse yourself in the beachside experience, then this is the place for a long barefoot walk as the waves tickle your ankles and seabirds call out from the cliffs above. Dublin is surrounded by great places for a dip, from deep rocky dives by Georgian dwellings to further-flung cliffside beaches and pier walls. The Antrim coast is one of the most scenic places in Northern Ireland, and in all of Ireland if you ask me. Map, “We started swimming there in the mid-1960s,” wrote Eva Reilly. Hundreds of local swimmers, expats and holidaymakers shared their favourite dips, and many had stories to tell, too. This Blue Flag beach is a firm favourite throughout the year for families, activity … After a day of adrenaline-fuelled fun you’ll need to chill out and eat and you’re spoiled for choice here, so check out The Quays, Kiwi’s Brew Bar and Ocho Tapas for light bites and brews. I contend that there are no “best” swimming spots. Map, I regularly break my rule about “bests” for Derrynane, whose white-sand beaches in a natural bay enjoy further protection from black sandstone rock that heats in the sun and warms the calm, shallow waters. Turn left at the mini-roundabout in Slade towards the harbour, and from there it’s a 300-metre walk south. Here’s a selection of just 10 of the many great places to stay on the island of Ireland But the deep, crystal blue waters made it well worth the journey. We know our own city’s swim spots well. With seven miles of sandy shoreline from Downhill to where it meets Magilligan Point, Benone Beach forms part of one of Ireland’s longest beaches and one of the best beaches in Northern Ireland. Map, On our short ferry journey from Roonah Point on the mainland to this small inhabited island, we were joined by a pod of dolphins. So instead I give you 10 “great’ Irish swims. Banagher outdoor pool is one of Irelands most unusual pools. There's an outdoor pool beside the beach in Newcastle, its mainly for children though. Rathlin Island is the most northerly inhabited island off the Irish coast and is one of Northern Ireland’s Special Areas of Conservation due to its large bird colony. Pull on a wetsuit and learn how to surf, body board or stand up paddle board at one of Northern Ireland’s great surf schools, such as Portrush Surf School which you’ll find at Portrush Yacht Club, or the legendary Troggs surf shop and school. ... for providing a fantastic venue, friendly and helpful staff. In particular, the residents of Miltown Malbay, a few miles inland, were keen to show us their childhood favourite. The spectacular beach forms a white arc between two headlands on the North Antrim coast. The beach and dunes are designated as a Special Area of Conservation (SAC) and an Area of Special Scientific Interest (ASSI). Skip to secondary content. From the beach car park in Bundoran, walk north on to Rougey Walk, then take the steps towards the sea stacks. Map, At Swim: a Book About the Sea, by Brendan Mac Evilly with Michael O’Reilly, is published by Collins Press, price £17.99. With the walk done, make for The Point Bar and Restaurant to replenish the energy levels, or venture a little further to Frank Owens Bar in Limavady and catch one of the iconic Doors of Thrones while you’re at it. #1 Best Value of 21 Family Resorts in Ireland “We had a really nice weekend stay at the Skelligs,a really wonderful location, the children in our family enjoyed the pool and the adults enjoyed the gym facilities.” It’s an old-fashioned concrete design which in our opinion adds to its charm. Originally designed in 1912 as a village of only seven houses, this designated conservation area is home to charming craft shops and tea rooms. BenFailsAgain. Often it is a very long breakfast table in one of Northern Ireland’s many hostels. The town wanted an indoor pool, but the council coffers were empty. A Blue Flag beach, Castlerock is a 1km (0.7 mile) long stretch of beach between the sea cliffs of Downhill to the west and the Lower River Bann estuary known as the Barmouth to the east. Situated in Ballyclare, 20 km from Ballymena, Dunamoy Cottages & Spa features views of the garden, an indoor swimming pool, a spa centre and free WiFi. In this secluded location, even on a busy day there is a refuge for quiet relaxation. This picture-perfect stop-off point is home to a charming array of shops and restaurants where you can sit back and relax with a refreshing afternoon tea. But we wanted get to know the rest of the Irish coast better, so put out a call to the country’s sea swimming community through radio and newspapers. Beware that to fish from the pier, or from the sandbanks further out, you will need a DCAL Angling License, but those … Counties all across Ireland and Northern Ireland are home to breathtaking views. On the day we arrived, Mike Doyle, a Galway native, was executing fabulous dives from the top platform. It is also a favourite for visitors wishing to take part in activities such as surfing, swimming and horse riding. Sign up for the Discover Northern Ireland newsletter for inspiration and travel tips. This time last year, I set off on a tour of the Irish coast for my book, At Swim: A Book about the Sea, which lists the best places to swim around the country, and explores Ireland’s sea swimming culture. ballycastlevic@causewaycoastandglens.gov.uk. From Ballycastle to Dundrum, we do like to be beside the seaside in a province that’s hard to beat for value, scenery and the warmth of the welcome Designed by a local engineer, it was built by a local company, blessed by the local priest and opened in 1954 – to men only. The island of Ireland is surrounded by over 1,450km (901mi) of coastline. “The parish priest, Archdeacon Feeney, complained about us from the altar, but we were brazen and chose to ignore him. It’s where the Earls of Tyrone and Tyrconnell fled in 1607, where the French fleet carrying the revolutionary Wolfe Tone was intercepted and defeated by the British in 1798, and was the largest home of the Royal Navy’s Grand Fleet in the first world war. Dublin is surrounded by great places for a dip, from deep rocky dives by Georgian dwellings to further-flung cliffside beaches and pier walls. Popular award winning rural beach positioned in a delightful sandy bay, at the northern tip of Islandmagee, just off the Causeway Coastal Route. From Wild Swimming in Ireland – Discover 50 Places to Swim in Rivers, Lakes and the Sea, The Collins Press. Ballintoy. The best of the geological features is Solomon’s Hole. From Galway City, head west along the R336 and you won’t miss it. West Strand Beach is flanked on either side by the busy harbour port of Portrush and a pedestrian and cycle promenade which follows the coastline. And believe us, that is not all! There is an undeniable exuberance about the place that embraces youth and what it brings to the table. The rock pool is great. “ The Causeway Coast offers an amazing and individual experience of the North Irish coastline - incredible beaches in all weather, amazing geology in the Giants Causeway, and best of … visitor.information@causewaycoastandglens.gov.uk. They lean out over a narrow, deep inlet, making perfect diving platforms. Monart Spa. Give Inch Beach a visit, it could be the best beach in Ireland. Follow the coast road west from Kilkee, heading for the Diamond Rock Cafe. We made life difficult for him.” Eva became the area’s first water safety officer in the 1980s. Keem Bay, Achill Island, Co. Mayo. With a wild Atlantic Ocean on one side, and the Irish Sea on another, it’s natural that Northern Ireland is home to some of the best and most spectacular beaches in Europe. #9 Best Value in Northern Ireland that matches your filters. Map, The last place on our coastal odyssey is known more for its history than its swimming heritage. No excuses. Tyler Koivisto won last year's NI Open at Galgorm Castle Cairndhu Golf Club has been named as the venue for the 2021 Northern Ireland Open. Drawing crowds all year round, in... 2. Downhill is a golden sandy beach stretching from Downhill Cliffs in the east towards Magilligan Point. Northern Ireland is a paradise for the budget adventurer, backpacking globetrotter and those who simply like to bump into others from around the world. It’s also got one of the last remaining springboards in Ireland, most were pulled up by councils frightened of litigation. From Ballycastle, a cycle trail will bring you eventually to the quaint village of Cushendun. Also we used to go to Maggie's leap just outside Newcastle (towards Kilkeel) to swim when we were younger, but no idea about Antrim, sorry! At the tip is 2km of black, rocky coast great for walking, coasteering or swimming (in places). With the majestic Mourne Mountains offering a dramatic backdrop, it is a picture perfect beach and was awarded Blue Flag status again in 2016. To buy a copy for £14.39, including UK p&p, go to bookshop.theguardian.com. There are 8 Belfast swimming pools and leisure centres to pick from.Alternatively, why not explore some other sightseeing days out nearby, including beaches.Find the perfect places to go with your kids and get out on your next adventure! Perfect for picnics, walking, swimming, windsurfing or just enjoying the great outdoors. Ballycastle Beach offers stunning views of Rathlin Island and Fairhead ans is approximately 1.2 kilometres in length. Crawfordsburn Country Park provides the ultimate and relaxing natural retreat. his time last year, I set off on a tour of the Irish coast for my book, At Swim: A Book about the Sea, which lists the best places to swim around the country, and explores Ireland’s sea swimming culture. I contend that there are no “best” swimming spots. Awarded the prestigious Blue Flag Award again in 2020, Whiterocks Beach has become a favourite with locals and a must see destination for international visitors. With accommodation available on the Island, April to July is a great time to visit as it’s puffin season: so don’t miss the opportunity to see them along with lots of other sea birds. Castlerock has been awarded a Northern Ireland Seaside Award 2016. benone.complex@causewaycoastandglens.gov.uk. The peninsula of Hook Head fingers out into the sea. View what Northern Ireland has to offer and some of the best things to see and do during a visit. It really is an everything beach for everyone – sandcastle builders, wave-riders, dog walkers, sun-bathers and sand-walkers. Keem Bay, Achill Island, County Mayo Official tourism website for Northern Ireland. 3. level 2. munkijuice. The last leg of the journey is an unmarked track through boggy, picturesque landscape. Rathlin Island can be reached by ferry from the pretty harbour town of Ballycastle, worth a few hours in its own right as there is plenty of interest here, not least watching out for the goats that roam the flanks of Fair Head beyond the harbour mouth. Instead, inspired by one local’s holiday to Sweden, an outdoor tidal pool was built: it’s an uncanny, modernist concrete block that sticks out from the coastline like a tongue. On the coastline, the town of Newcastle has a beautiful beach to offer those who want to be near (or in!) You’ll get a different perspective on the coast and wildlife around here if you take a RIB ride with Strangford Sea Safari just up the road from Murlough. We've rounded up the best beaches in Belfast in our quest to discover brilliant family attractions and places to visit near you. You’ll also find Ballycastle beach backing onto Ballycastle Golf Club, five minutes from the town centre. I was joined by actor, comedian and fellow Dubliner Michael O’Reilly. Although some of the beaches on the list are around an hour’s drive from the city, the scenic beauty of the country would make up for it and the drive is an added bonus. Visit top-rated & must-see attractions. The new cliff access opened last summer. Our aim is to cover the country and have at least one location in each of the 32 counties.The simple aim of this site is to compile an outdoor swimming directory where all the best swimming places in the country can be shared, listed and discussed. The pier is plenty deep for diving, with access to a narrow gully beneath the drawbridge and a pristine, horse-shoe beach on the opposite side of the fort. Each of the 50-odd swims in my book is somebody’s favourite – home of a childhood memory or a deep psychic connection. If it’s surfing you’re after, you’re certainly in the right place here. You’ll find Roark’s Kitchen right on the harbour and a little away from the harbour is the ever-popular Red Door Cottage Tea Room & Bistro. Breweries, Distilleries & Cider Producers. Posts about Northern Ireland written by wildswims. Turn left for Glebe and continue to Dunree. 100 of the best places to stay in Ireland Find your ideal break, from campsites to quirky hideaways, blow-the-budget spots to thrifty getaways Sat, Jun 3, 2017, 06:10 6 years ago. This Blue Flag beach is a firm favourite throughout the year for families, activity enthusiasts and those looking for a leisurely stroll. It's overlooked by one of Northern Ireland's leading landmarks, Mussenden Temple, and benefits from classic views of the Donegal Coast and beyond. 12 Sea Swimming Spots in Ireland that will Take your Breath Away 1. Map. Joyce himself lived here for just under a week before setting sail for the continent. The forthright Bishop Michael Browne of Galway was known to patrol the area, making sure men and women swam separately. A dawn walk here will have the sun rising over the cupola of Mussenden Temple behind you. So instead I give you 10 “great’ Irish swims. But decades of the raging Atlantic seas had washed away safe access to the natural pool at the base of the cliff. The accommodation offers a sun terrace. A handful of locals decided something must be done, and by July 2014 had raised money for a large engineering project. Carrick-A-Rede, Causeway Coast, Co Antrim. Whether you’re looking for a city break, a country escape or a combination of both, Here are the best coastal destinations on the island. Downhill Beach is situated within the Bineveagh area of outstanding natural beauty and is set against a backdrop of cascading waterfalls, towering sand dunes and the stunning Mussenden Temple. It’s known as Bridie’s. Awarded the prestigious Seaside Award annually since 1997, it has also maintained the Blue Flag award since 2011. 2,114 reviews. Map, These three natural swimming pools emerge from a rocky reef as the tide recedes. He was in his 70s then and used to swim there himself. Dunamoy Cottages & Spa provides a laundry service, as well as business facilities like fax and photocopying. Skip to primary content. the water. A well preserved Martello Tower at Magilligan Point, an important historical site in Northern Ireland, built during the Napeolonic Wars marks the entrance to Lough Foyle. There are 18 Belfast beaches to pick from. The Forty Foot, Sandycove, Co Dublin. Kerin’s Hole is reached along the cliff walk on the right side of the beach. Ireland~ A Swimmer's ParadiseWe now have over 200 locations on this site. You can get up close to the seals and, if you’re lucky, porpoises and dolphins. Have a browse through the site and begin to add things you're interested in. Magilligan Point is the tip of one of the largest sand dune systems in the British Isles. With breath-taking sea views, this cool and laidback beach side eatery majors on locally caught fresh fish and produce from the owner’s farm. Causeway Coastal Route. Currently nothing planned yet in your itinerary. Benone Beach, multiple recipient of the European Blue Flag and Seaside Award, is a must-see when visiting the area. Bring a pair of goggles or a snorkel to explore the rich sea life in these deep pools that warm to up to 20C in summer – but be sure to arrive two hours either side of low tide. We have reviews of the best places to see in Northern Ireland. A natural rock pool, best known as "the Bogey Hole," Giles Baths is just one of many amazing swimming spots found along the coast near Sydney. Discover 10 of the best beaches in Ireland 1. Amidst the rugged landscape of this isolated island, you can let your mind wander and discover a tranquility and beauty that is so unexpected. This was the childhood playground of actor Richard Harris, where he performed death-defying handstands and cycling tricks on the cliffside walls when not showboating by the sea. The naturally stunning formations of the coastline provide long stretches of golden sand and impressive sand dunes, with a backdrop of mountains, cliffs, caves and even temples. 10 of the best coastal swimming spots in Ireland The Forty Foot, Glenageary, near Dublin. The town is renowned for its beauty and has won various accolades, such as Best Kept Town and Ulster in Bloom awards in 2002. All this wide open space and gentle sea breezes makes it ideal kite-flying country, for young and old alike. Every beach is different, and every beach offers something different, but on all of them you’ll find that same Northern Ireland sense of inspiration and exhilaration. With seven miles of sandy shoreline from Downhill to where it meets Magilligan Point, Benone Beach forms part of one of Ireland’s longest beaches and one of the best beaches in Northern Ireland. It really has a bit of everything! The Atlantic could easily be mistaken for the Med at Keem Bay, where the horseshoe of white sands is flanked by velveteen green cliffs.It’s worth the steep drive up and over the clifftops to reach this Blue Flag strand. All Rights Reserved. This pool is perfect for an early morning swim. Map, Just north of Bundoran is a cliff walk to a pair of sea stacks. It is a wide, flat, sandy beach two kilometres long and backed by 25 hectares of mature dunes. Once you've cleared the cobwebs with a swim, walk up to local favourite The Snug and warm yourself up with pizza and tapas. coleraine.vic@causewaycoastandglens.gov.uk. Map, We had more emails about this swimming spot than any other. 505 reviews. With its shingle beach and four mile Blue Flag strand, there are nature trails to explore, activities for kids, and wildlife to discover. #16 in Best Places to Visit in Ireland Situated just northwest of Ireland's border with Northern Ireland, the Inishowen Peninsula is the country's largest peninsula. Sand & pebble beach located on the south down coast. Warrenpoint Beach is located alongside the Mourne Mountains on the shores of Carlingford Lough, in County Down. You are here: Things to Do > Outdoors, Nature & Wildlife > Beaches. Walking south from Slade harbour, keep your eyes peeled for a bridge of rock that overhangs a fairy pool. The 36-hole strokeplay event will take place … We've rounded up the best swimming pools and leisure centres in Belfast in our quest to discover brilliant family attractions and places to visit near you. Best Places to Live in Northern Ireland. A t Harry's Shack, a grey wooden hut on Portstewart beach in Northern Ireland, with colourful light-bulb signs and handsome red-haired waiters, sand keeps blowing in the door but no one seems to mind.The crowd is here for the seafood (huge pots of fat briny mussels; flaky hake with spiced couscous) and the laid-back BYOB attitude. Found at the end of a small winding road, Ballintoy Harbour Beach features secluded bays, rock pools and sandy coves that you can spend time exploring before stopping off at the nearby village of Ballintoy. A five star, adult-only spa, Monart is a one-stop relaxation shop - guests are encouraged to wear bathrobes and slippers all day, for the ultimate spa break experience. Back on dry land, the pretty conservation village of Strangford is the perfect stop-off point for a relaxing lunch or stroll around the harbour. Children leap from the jetty at Derrynane, Co Kerry. This is not the place to swim, leave it to the seals. This award winning beach is located in Ballygally, 10km north of Larne town on the beautiful Causeway Coastal Route and is perfect for a short walk to blow the cobwebs away or to build sand castles with the kids or to even enjoy a quick swim! If you love the smell of saltwater, and want to catch some saltwater fish too, the Donaghadee pier in Northern Ireland is a great place to be. Beautiful sandy beach with excellent facilities, all within twenty minutes drive of Belfast. This 5 mile stretch of golden sands is still the essence of the resort and is hugely popular for swimming, sunbathing and other forms of recreation. Tyrella beach and conservation area is a small, enclosed dune complex within Dundrum Bay. Maintained by the National Trust, Portstewart Strand is an area of stunning natural beauty and of scientific interest. A few miles east of Northern Ireland's spectacular Benone Strand, part of one of the island's longest beaches, you'll find near-ideal coasteering conditions … Monaghan is a county on the east coast of Ireland. Our guide to the best beaches in Ireland starts from this photogenic spot. Dublin’s commuter trains run south to this famous swimming spot, below a Martello tower in which the opening chapter of Ulysses is set. Not only that, but it’s filled with amazing spots to visit. More recently, it was named the Best Kept Large Town in Northern Ireland in the TidyTowns competition. Visitors can experience tranquil walks through peaceful meadows and wooded glens. Swimmers should head to the elegant 18th century village of Mountshannon, County Clare with its picturesque marina and Blue Flag beach. With shops, amusements and restaurants nearby, this Blue Flag beach resort is a family favourite throughout the holidays. This is one of these everything goes beaches where people from all walks of life come together to swim, surf, bodyboard, paddleboard, walk, build sandcastles, sunbathe and even pony trek on the clear sands. Make a meal out of this full-on beach experience by heading for Harry’s Shack for a bite or two. Generations of teenagers have gathered here in summer to test their nerve by jumping from ever-higher ledges. This seaside suburb has a holiday atmosphere thanks to the arcades and promenade that lead towards Blackrock, where a diving platform stretches out into the Atlantic. But here, the board appears to be safer than the sea stacks. colerainevic@causewaycoastandglens.gov.uk. But its swimming value is beyond doubt too. The mile long crescent of sandy beach curving along Ballyholme bay has been a favourite sea bathing spot for generations. It holds the prestigious Blue Flag award and is perfect for family fun holidays and picnics. The sand from your shoes will sprinkle beneath the table as you eat. Well, Northern Ireland is home to some of the most wonderful beaches in Europe. This blue flag beach is ideal for surfers, walkers, sun worshippers, swimmers, and anyone interested in learning some watersports. The closest town to Kerin’s Hole is Milton Malbay and it … Approximately 1.2 kilometres in length, the beach is predominantly sand with some shingle and has a promenade at the western end. If you’re very, very lucky you might even see the visiting pod of Orcas that chase bait fish into the lough. Find the perfect places to go with your kids and get out on your next adventure! Map, The sunny south-east has a near mythic micro-climate: I can remember the distinct smell of porridge and jam wafting through our car window as we drove by strawberry farms. It makes up one of the counties of the Ireland–Northern Ireland Border Region. As you can see, there’s a beach for everyone and everything here in Northern Ireland – and this is only a handful - each offering a unique perspective on our spectacular seascapes and the adventures to be had here. On a clear day visitors can take in the great views of Binevenagh Mountain whilst exploring the sand dunes. Take the R313 into Belmullet, turn left into Main Street and left again along Shore Road, watching for the gap in the wall that gives access to the pool. A long sandy beach which offers enjoyment for all. Women didn’t join the men for a swim at Blackrock, or in many other parts of Ireland, until the 1970s. Find what to do today, this weekend or in March. 6 years ago. From its sandy shoreline, visitors are rewarded with breath-taking views of the Causeway Coast and can enjoy many of the walks the Island has to offer. Kerin’s Hole, County Clare. Take a tour of Portaferry Castle’s historical grounds, or simply walk along the marina and take in the views all round. The western beach, with a tiny jetty from which children and toddlers leap, is completely protected – and was once a smuggler’s cove. From the harbour, take the road north towards the lighthouse. #2 of 4 Outdoor Activities in Ballintoy. Head north from Buncrana on the R238. Known as the ‘raised beach’, it sits near Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge. © 2021 Northern Ireland. The Mournes is an area of outstanding beauty in Northern Ireland, and really is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Northern Ireland. So if you’re entertaining kids or entertaining your child-like self this is the place to fly those colourful kites as high as you like. This rocky outcrop sees hundreds of visitors daily, in good weather and bad, and thousands of swimmers on Christmas Day. A small pier sits directly below an 18th-century fort in Lough Swilly. Turn off the N70 at Derrynane Beg or Caherdaniel and follow the winding road toward the sea. Dublin’s commuter trains run south to this famous swimming spot, below a... Solomon’s Hole, Hook Head, County Wexford. With stunning natural beauty and a raw quality to its wilderness and waterways, County Monaghan makes for a fantastic weekend trip away, or a stop en route to or from the North. One of the best known and most popular on our list, The Forty Foot draws crowds all year... 2. This is a local swimming spot with a warm welcome for visitors and also a traditional music session in the town every night of the week. 9. Downhill - part of an 11km stretch of sand and surf – offers a wealth of activities including water sports, scenic walks and family-friendly facilities, making this Blue Flag beach an ideal place to explore. (parking available, National Trust charges apply). Golden sandy beach with views of The Skerries and Causeway headlands. It is here that you’ll find the beloved sculpture of ‘Johann’ the goat – a famous Cushendun resident. Head down Marine Parade to Sandycove Avenue and James Joyce Tower. Each of the 50-odd swims in my book is somebody’s favourite – home of a childhood memory or a deep psychic connection. The Forty Foot, Dublin. I was joined by actor, comedian and fellow Dubliner Michael O’Reilly. Discover The Antrim Coast Dunseverick, County Antrim – Places to visit in Northern Ireland. "Our favourite stops on the trip were Glenarm Castle, Cushendun, Torr Head, Fair Head, Carrick-A-Rede coastal walk and suspension bridge, Ballintoy, Dark Hedges and the absolute two stars of the coast - … It’s located in the River Shannon, with Galway on one side and Offaly on the other. This swimming spot needs little introduction. The town is also one of the main stopping points on the way to the Giant’s Causeway. With the temperatures in our lakes and seas rising, there’s no better time to take the plunge 1. We know our own city’s swim spots well. With two excellent beaches, spectacular scenery and views across Belfast Lough. There are few places in the world that offer such a sumptuous choice of accommodation. Murlough National Nature Reserve is a fragile 6,000 year old sand dune system owned by the National Trust and is an excellent area for walking and birdwatching due to its spectacular location at the edge of Dundrum Bay and the Mourne Mountains. It is a wide, flat, sandy beach two kilometres long and backed by 25 hectares of mature dunes in a conservation area. Hundreds of local swimmers, expats and holidaymakers shared their favourite dips, and many had stories to tell, too. The award-winning Tyrella beach and dune conservation area is a small, enclosed complex within Dundrum Bay, Downpatrick, County Down. From here you can explore Strangford Lough, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and Northern Ireland’s first marine nature reserve. At Ballytoohy More, turn right and head north-east on the muddy track. The writer of a new book about great places for a seaside dip in Ireland had the help of a keen community of wild swimmers across the country, who shared secrets, tips and stories, Last modified on Thu 22 Dec 2016 07.17 EST.