Summer is fast-approaching, and recent spells of good weather have given the holidaymakers of Ireland a taste of what’s to come.
While May is set to get off to a wet start, the following summer months will hopefully bring some European heat to Irish shores.
Beaches across the country are set to see floods of people set up shop in the sand, though some hidden beauties showcase the best of the nation’s scenery.
Extra.ie has taken a look at 10 of the most breathtaking Irish beaches to visit this summer.
KEEM BAY – MAYO
Recently named among the top 50 beaches in the world, Keem Bay on Achill Island stands out as one of the most stunning features of the Irish landscape.
With its horseshoe bay and gleaming sand, the beach offers shelter from the weather and magical views.
On a good day, the glistening water creates a similar swimming appeal to a tropical island.
DERRYNANE BEACH – KERRY
Derrynane Beach is a gorgeous strand on the Ring of Kerry, known for its turquoise waters and breathtaking scenery.
Swimming, surfing and kayaking are all regularly seen off its shore, with the water praised for being safe and sheltered.
Protected sand dunes surround the beach and are close to the historic sixth-century Abbey Island.
DOG’S BAY – GALWAY
Dog’s Bay is renowned for its beautiful sands and calm waters for swimming and windsurfing.
The beach boasts the best of Ireland’s stunning West Coast, with a lack of foot traffic making it a perfect, peaceful getaway.
The crescent-shaped strand in Connemara is a mile-long and located just 90 minutes outside of Galway city centre.
CURRACLOE BEACH – WEXFORD
Nestled on Wexford’s coastline, this seven-mile white sandy beach is famous for its scenery.
Curracloe is known as the setting for the opening scenes of Saving Private Ryan, with its extensive sand dunes providing a touch of natural beauty.
The shore offers safe swimming with modern facilities, as well as a five-kilometre nature trail.
INCHYDONEY – CORK
Inchydoney is a small island off West Cork, connected to the mainland by two causeways.
The clear blue water offers ideal swimming conditions, with a nearby Lodge and Spa available to turn a day trip into a holiday.
The luxurious scenery is perfect to take in on a long walk, with Cork city centre about 90 minutes away.
PORTMARNOCK STRAND – DUBLIN
Portmarnock is home to one of Dublin’s longest strands, with clean sand stretching for miles.
Renowned for swimming and walking, the beach showcases gorgeous views of Howth and Lambay Island.
Portmarnock connects to more scenic spots in Malahide by a popular coastal path, which is often used for walking, cycling and jogging.
STRANDHILL BEACH – SLIGO
Sligo plays host to one of Ireland’s most popular surfing destinations in Strandhill Beach.
The shore is known for dramatic Atlantic waves, popular walking routes and nearby attractions like the Voya Seaweed Baths.
While not suitable for swimming, the waters are perfect for experienced surfers and beginners taking lessons.
PORTSALON BEACH – DONEGAL
Portsalon Beach, also known as Magherawarden, is around a kilometre-and-a-half long and rests between Rathmullan and Fanad Head.
The extensive sandy strand opens up to beautiful Atlantic waters and is a stunning spot to go for a swim.
As a sheltered stretch of land, the lack of foot traffic makes it perfect for a quiet day out.
BANNA STRAND – KERRY
Situated north of Tralee Bay, this 10-kilometre sandy beach is hugely popular for swimming, surfing and scenic walks.
Known for its golden sands and stunning water, Banna Strand is also famous for the 1916 landing of arms by Roger Casement.
Alongside 12-metre high sand dunes, the beach offers extensive views of the Atlantic Ocean, Kerry Head, and the Dingle Peninsula.
FANORE BEACH – CLARE
Finally, Fanore Beach showcases the best of what Co Clare has to offer with its vast sand dunes, clear waters and scenic views.
Fancy living the Mamma Mia dream? Well maybe you can with this island offer
