Dublin’s Coastal Towns
– 5 - min read
If you’re visiting Dublin and want to see the capital from a different point of view, there is no better way than a day trip exploring the beautiful seaside towns near Dublin, where you will find truly charming gems, filled with amazing activities combining urban adventure with nature! We will cover the best spots for your next day trip!
Dalkey
First up on our Dublin seaside towns list – Dalkey! Catch the Dart southbound for a day bay trip to the beautiful Dublin coastal town of Dalkey is the perfect way to spend the day. The rich history is front and centre with a 10th-century church and two Norman castles located on the main street. Dalkey town is only a short walk from the harbours where you can enjoy a boat trip to Dalkey Island and don’t forget to keep an eye out for the famous locals such as Bono, Enya and Van Morrison! Dalkey is the perfect Dublin coastal town for a day trip and is filled with culture and adventure and offers a wide range of places to dine. Located only 15km from Clayton Hotel Cardiff Lane, it’s the perfect place to escape the city and indulge in a little of what the coast has to offer.
Dún Laoghaire
Dún Laoghaire is an elegant port town located only 13km from Dublin’s City Centre. Popular with holiday makers Dún Laoghaire’s appeal is timeless. Take a dip in the sea, visit a museum, try your hand at sailing and even top it all off with a 99-ice cream on the pier! A recommended spot to visit is The People’s Park created as a Victorian garden the scenic spot offers beautifully landscaped lawns and bright flowers. Visit on a Sunday to sample the offerings of the Dún Laoghaire’s food and craft market. You don’t want to miss this beautiful Dublin coastal town, visit now!
Howth
The Dublin coastal town of Howth is located below the hilly headland at the Northern boundary of Dublin Bay. A small fishing village that offers an array of things to do, an angler’s dream as cod and ray are commonly caught here as fishing trawlers come in and out of the harbour. Local restaurants along the seafront serve up the catch of the day to the hungry hikers fresh off the Howth Head walk! There is something for every level of walker in this fishing village. Try the Bog of Frogs Loop for scenic views of the cliffs, Lambay Island and the Baily Lighthouse and there is four route options so look out for signs displaying directions. Shane’s Howth Adventures is a local guide that offers a variety of touring options through the scenic landscape of Howth. Take a stroll down the pier for something a bit quieter, you can take in the views of Ireland’s Eye which is just a 15-minute boat ride away. Explore its long sandy beach and take in breath-taking views of Dublin Bay in this beautiful Dublin seaside town.
Malahide
Malahide is a homely village that retains its historic character. It offers traditional shop front, colourful hanging flower baskets and a stunning view of Dublin Bay. Stroll the marina, visit the medieval castle and discover Malahide’s charming cafés and chic boutiques. The spectacular Malahide Castle is one of Ireland’s oldest castles and tours regularly run inside revealing what life was like for the Talbot family who lived there for almost 800 years.
Bull Island
Bull Island is located off the coast of the city’s North Side. A low lying, dune covered sand spit that is a national nature reserve, this coastal town in Dublin is a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts and birdwatchers. Dollymount beach offers a great place for walkers as well. Bull Island is home to two private golf courses- St Anne’s and The Royal Dublin. Bull Island was created 200 years ago due to the construction of the north bull wall to Dublin Port. To this day it continues to grow seaward and this is a rare natural occurrence in Ireland. Its current size is 5km long by 1km wide!
Killiney Hill
The Dublin seaside town of Killiney with Killiney Hill is a beloved destination for walkers and hikers availing of the tremendous views over the surrounding areas. On a clear day you can see the mountains of Wales from Killiney Hill! The Park has a playground that is structured like a pyramid, perfect for selfies and also has a tea room. Built in 1952 by Robert Warren, Killiney locals refer to the pyramid as the “Wishing Stone”. According to legend, a wish comes true when one circles all levels of the pyramid, climbs the uppermost pinnacle and makes a wish while looking towards St. Begnet’s Oratory on Dalkey Island.
