Beach Tours in Ireland
3 Most Popular Beaches in Ireland
- Inch Strand: Located in County Kerry, Inch Strand is the most famous beach in Ireland, thanks to being featured in not just one, but three blockbuster films: Ryan’s Daughter, Excalibur, and Far and Away. Stretching over 5 km into Dingle Bay, its west-facing coastline makes it a popular spot for surfers to get the best waves. But it’s not just for those into watersports, Inch Strand is also popular with walkers and sunbathers on more temperate days.
- Dogs Bay: Dogs Bay in your County Galway tour could put any tropical paradise to shame and is one of the top beaches in Ireland. With its crystal clear waters and white sands, you’ll almost forget that you are in Ireland! If Dog’s Bay isn't to your liking, then just head across the other side of the sand spit to find yet another beach: Gurteen Bay. The waters here are perfect for paddleboarding and you could easily visit both beaches by paddling between them.
- Burrow Beach: Burrow Beach boasts soft, golden sand and is only a short distance away from the capital, Dublin. However, the gorgeous surroundings filled with nature and wildflowers, the views of Ireland’s Eye, and more than a kilometer of smooth sand make it a refreshing departure from the city. You can tell it’s a local favorite, as people flock to Burrow Beach on sunny days to make the most of the weather.
Highlights of Ireland Beach Tours
- Spot some of Ireland's most fantastic creatures from the beach; the coastline is home to an abundance of wildlife. Go birdwatching to spot cormorants, storm petrels, and terns, or look to the water to spy seals, dolphins, porpoises, and perhaps a rare basking shark sighting at Keem Beach!
- Check out stunning Blue Flag locations with over 80 beaches in Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland that are certified. Blue Flag is one of the world’s most recognized awards for beaches, promoting environmental education and management, sustainable tourism, and safety and access for beach users. With beautiful scenery, crystal clear waters, and high safety, you can enjoy the very best beaches Ireland has to offer.
- Take to the waves of the Atlantic coastline! Many of the country’s westerly beaches such as Whiterocks in County Antrim and Dunmore East in County Waterford are perfect for watersports, including surfing, windsurfing, and sailing.
- Saddle up and enjoy a ride across wide stretches of sand on horseback on Ireland beach tours, including hacks across Tullan Strand in County Donegal, and Streedagh Beach in County Sligo.
Travel Tips for Ireland Beach Tours
- Be mindful that although some beaches may look like tropical paradises, the weather in Ireland can be less than balmy! Aim to travel in the months of June to August if you plan to do a spot of sunbathing as although this is the high season, you will be assured of the best weather.
- Brace yourselves for a potentially windy beach break in Ireland, as thanks to many beaches being on the exposed Atlantic coast, things can get a little breezy! Consider bringing a portable tent or windbreak if you are staying on the beach in the summer, or a windproof coat for strolls in the colder months.
- Pack a seaside picnic before you go to smaller beaches in Ireland or those in quieter areas as they may not have any amenities such as food options or toilets on site.
- Savor amazing flavors and try some of the freshest fish and seafood on your Ireland beach tour. Try freshly caught oysters, or warm up with some fish and chips with lashings of malt vinegar.