You don’t have to take a flight to feel sand underfoot. Discover some of Ireland’s most beautiful beaches and you may never want to leave home again.

BRITTAS BAY, CO WICKLOW
With 5km of beautiful white sand, Brittas Bay is one of the finest beaches on the East Coast. With no headlands to detract the eyeline, there is a peaceful rhythm, ideal for bathing, sailing and walking. The 3km sand dune system is a designated area of significant interest, which provides an exciting playground for adventurers of all ages. Adding to the intrigue, nearby Jack’s Hole gets its name from a 17th Century smuggler and pirate Captain Jack White who operated from the secluded cove where he intercepted goods from British merchant ships and imported goods from France to the annoyance of Crown authorities who were deprived of customs revenue.

DERRYNANE, CO KERRY
One mile from Caherdaniel you have Derrynane Beach, one of the most beautiful and cleanest Beaches in the World. This extensive white sandy beach with clean Blue Flag waters is situated at the tip of the Iveragh peninsula. Access is through the wooded gardens of historic Derrynane House, which is worth a visit in itself. However, it’s the crescent shaped beach of white sand and clear aquamarine water which is the main attraction, with Abbey Island at the westernmost end. Derrynane Beach was listed among the top 25 beaches in Europe by Tripadvisor’s travellers choice awards in 2020.

ROSSBEIGH, CO KERRY
Jutting out into the bay and guarding the entrance to Castlemaine Harbour means that Rossbeigh Beach has one of the most dramatic backdrops for a refreshing swim. It’s the ideal stretch of firm sand for walking and enjoying fine views of the Dingle Mountains. Nearby horse riding schools are regular visitors to the 7k strand, while the Blue Flag waters are popular for fishing and all types of watersports including windsurfing, kite-surfing and some decent surfing thanks to the prevailing SW winds.

WHITEROCKS BEACH, PORTRUSH, CO. ANTRIM
Situated just off the Causeway Coastal Route, Whiterocks Coastal Park enjoys a stunning natural location, with limestone cliffs stretching from Curran Strand to County Antrim’s 13th century Dunluce Castle. This scenic spot is framed by chalky-white limestone cliffs that have been carved by the North Atlantic, making it a truly remarkable location for a dip. Alongside the long shoreline perfect for a lovers stroll, the more adventurous can indulge in surfing or stand-up paddleboarding. A seasonal on-site surf outlet provides equipment for hire making it an easy decision when the weather is in your favour.

KEEM, CO MAYO
Only accessible via a small road winding over the mountain, means that when Keem finally reveals itself, it’s almost like a dream. Once a basking shark fishery, the sheltered strand on the scenic Wild Atlantic Way boasts a breathtaking view and crystal clear waters, making it a firm favourite for scuba divers and snorkelling enthusiasts who come from near and far to enjoy.