beaches ireland

One of th best in the South East, Duncannon Beach has held the EU Blue Flag of excellence since 1987. The beach is a golden mile of sand with lifeguard(s) on hand to help ensure a safe and happy visit....

Arklow is another of Irelands lucky towns to have two blue flag beaches. Brittas Bay is divided into north and south.
Brittas Bay is a long sandy sheltered beach. The area is designated as a proposed Special Area of Conservation. This area is of ecological importance and many habitats of interest include sand dunes and grassland areas. The landscape is dominated by the huge sand dunes, which approximately cover 100 hectares.
...

Mayo, with its many clean, sheltered beaches is ideal for swimming, sailing, surfing and other watersports. Dooega is a Blue Flag Beach; bathing areas which have met international criteria for clean water, freedom from pollution, safe access, sanitary facilities, lifeguards on duty, wheelchair access, and information centres. The Blue Flag Beach campaign's standards are 20 times higher than the minimum set by the EU directive on bathing water quality. But there are beaches which are clean, yet...

Portrush is the proud owner of three blue flag beaches – Portrush West Strand, Portrush East Strand and Whiterocks – the choice here is endless!
Set in the heart Portrush, the long sandy beach of Portrush West offers a sheltered retreat boasting magnificent coastal views and modern facilities. The charming promenade runs the length of the beach.
With a caravan site close by, Portrush West is popular with families looking for a traditional seaside. You can also admire the spec...

Situated just west of the harbour, Ballinskelligs beach can be found in South Kerry’s very own Irish speaking area, Ballinskelligs. The beach itself is actually a designated Natural Heritage area.
If you don’t fancy lying on the beach all day why not head across to Valentia Island, which is just a short drive from here. You can take a cruise from here to the famous Skellig Islands....

Downhill strand, where the bishop was accustomed to hold horseback races between his clergy, is popular for surf fishing, especially bass. The view east from the Mussenden Temple embraces the fine beach and sandhills at the resort of Castlerock and the first of a string of fine golf links that stretch eastwards along the coast....

During the summer, the lake, with its cool, clear water fed from underground springs is a popular venue with locals and visitors. The Long Point with its car parks, changing and toilet facilities, is an excellent and safe place for swimming. An alternative site for younger children is the shallow sandy area at Coorheen. Because of its size, the lake is an excellent stretch of water for sailboarding and canoeing.

Boats can be hired by the day and offer an ideal opportunity to explore th...

Garryvoe is a gorgeous blue flag beach located in East Cork in the sunny south of Ireland.
The strand is composed of mixed pebble. Let the waves crash at your feet or if you feel brave enough hit the sea and have a swim!
The beach can be found in the village of Garryvoe. From Castlemartyr, take the R632 to Garryvoe. Wheelchair access is provided. The beach is life guarded throughout the bathing season....

Waterford is brimming with sandy beaches for you to explore – Bonmahon is no different! And you can be assured of clean, safe waters when you swim here – it has a blue flag after all!
This beach is renowned for its small area of dunes, where you’ll find interesting flora with an abundance of uncommon species....

Another of Northern Irelands blue flag beaches is located at Ballycastle in County Antrim. The beach here is clean and is a popular spot with both locals and visitors alike!
Situated on the spectacular North Antrim coast, Ballycastle is a traditional friendly seaside town. Whether you’re a walker, a paddler a swimmer or a diver - you’ll fall in love with the sea at Ballycastle!...