Dublin’s Coastal Towns

10 Seaside Towns to Visit

1. 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. It’s the perfect place to escape the city and indulge in a little of what the coast has to offer.

Dalkey is the perfect Dublin coastal town for a day trip, filled with culture and adventure, and offering a wide range of places to dine, from cosy cafés to well-known restaurants. 

If you’re looking for some scenic walks in Dublin, look no further!

2. 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 which was created in the Victorian style at the end of the 19th century. The scenic spot offers beautifully landscaped lawns and bright flowers, ideal for a leisurely walk. Visit on a Sunday to sample the offerings of the Dún Laoghaire food and craft market. You don’t want to miss this beautiful Dublin coastal town.

3. Howth

The Dublin coastal town of Howth is located below the hilly headland at the Northern boundary of Dublin Bay. This small fishing village offers an array of things to do, from watching trawlers come and go in the harbour to enjoying fresh seafood along the seafront. Local restaurants serve up the catch of the day, making it a popular stop after a walk along the cliffs.

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 along the pier for a quieter moment, where you can look out towards Ireland’s Eye, just a short boat ride away, and take in the ever-changing views of Dublin Bay.

If you are looking to spend the day in Howth, check out our things to do in Howth guide.

4. Malahide

Malahide is a welcoming 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, with tours regularly running, offering a glimpse into life for the Talbot family who lived there for almost 800 years.

5. 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 wide, open space that’s ideal for long walks along the shoreline and taking in the coastal scenery.

Bull Island is home to two private golf courses- St Anne’s and The Royal Dublin. Created over 200 years ago following the construction of the North Bull Wall, the island continues to grow seaward, making it a rare natural feature in Ireland.

On the topic of beaches, Ireland is awash with them. You can check out the breath-taking coastal views in Sligo and incredible coastal walks in Cork which are all within four hour driving distance from Dublin.  

6. 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 and tea room which is perfect for a family day out or a solo travel. 

Built in 1852 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.

7. Portmarnock

Portmarnock is a coastal suburb that combines long stretches of uninterrupted beach with a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere than some of Dublin’s busier seaside spots. Its most notable feature is the Velvet Strand, a wide sandy beach known for its smooth texture and panoramic views across Dublin Bay. Popular with walkers, swimmers and watersports enthusiasts, it’s an ideal location for those looking to enjoy the coast at a slower pace.

Beyond its natural beauty, Portmarnock has a rich and somewhat unexpected history. The area played a role in early aviation, serving as the departure point for pioneering transatlantic flights in the early 20th century. Its earlier past is equally notable, with evidence of medieval industry such as tide mills operated along the estuary, highlighting the area’s long-standing relationship with the sea. Today, Portmarnock offers a balance of heritage and open coastal space, perfect for those looking to unwind just outside the city.

8. Sandycove

Sandycove is a small, yet culturally significant coastal town located just south of Dún Laoghaire. Known for its scenic views and sheltered bathing spots, it is perhaps best recognised for the Forty Foot, a historic swimming location that continues to attract locals year-round. The village has a distinctive charm, where sea swimming, coastal walks and literary history intersect.

One of Sandycove’s defining landmarks is the Martello Tower, which now houses a museum dedicated to James Joyce. Built to defend Ireland against an invasion by Napoleon Bonaparte in 1804, it was only the start of its rich history here. The tower famously features in the opening scene of Ulysses, and the area continues to celebrate its literary connection each year during Bloomsday. With its coastal setting and sense of history, Sandycove offers a more intimate seaside experience close to the city.

9. Skerries

Located to the north of Dublin, Skerries is a traditional seaside town that has evolved from a historic fishing port into a popular destination for day trips and coastal escapes. Its harbour, lined with colourful buildings, reflects its maritime past, while nearby islands and long sandy beaches add to its appeal.

Skerries offers a variety of activities, from coastal walks and watersports to exploring local heritage sites such as windmills and Martello towers. The town also forms part of the wider Dublin Coastal Trail, connecting it to other seaside communities along the bay. Despite its growth as a commuter town, Skerries has retained a strong sense of identity, making it an appealing destination for those seeking both activity and atmosphere by the sea.

10. Bray

Bray, located just south of Dublin in County Wicklow, is one of the most well-known seaside towns near Dublin and has long been associated with traditional coastal tourism. Its expansive promenade, pebble beach and proximity to Bray Head (and the lovely Bray Head Cliff Walk) make it a popular choice for both day trips and longer stays.

The town offers a mix of classic attractions alongside access to some of the most scenic walking routes on the east coast. Combined with a wide selection of cafés, restaurants and family-friendly activities, Bray delivers a well-rounded seaside experience that blends accessibility with natural beauty, making it a fitting final stop on any exploration of Dublin’s coastal towns.

If travelling outside of Dublin tickles your fancy, check out our Day Trips from Dublin article for inspiration.

Dublin’s Coastal Surprises

Exploring the Dublin coastal towns offers a refreshing way to experience the capital beyond its busy streets, with each destination bringing its own character, history and coastal charm. From scenic cliff walks and quiet beaches to bustling harbours and historic villages, there is no shortage of ways to spend time along the shoreline.

Whether you’re planning a short day-trip or looking to explore a little further afield, these seaside towns near Dublin provide the perfect balance of activity and relaxation. With many easily accessible by DART, bus, or a short drive from the city, it’s never been easier to discover a different side of Dublin and enjoy everything the coast has to offer.