The Best Sea Swimming Spots In Dublin

Last updated on August 6th, 2022 at 06:17 am

An invigorating dip in the ocean is one of the best things you can do for both your mental and physical health. Not only is the seawater excellent for your skin, but immersion in cold water can also help boost the circulation and calm the mind.

There are numerous beautiful sea swimming spots along the Dublin coast, including many designated sea bathing areas. 

In this post we share the best sea swimming spots in Dublin.

Map of Sea Swimming Spots

The following map shows the location of every sea swimming spot highlighted in this post: 

Forty Foot

Bathers have been swimming at the Forty Foot in South Dublin for hundreds of years. Originally a male only bathing area, the Forty Foot has been open to all since the 1970’s. Swimmers flock to the Forty Foot throughout the year, with Christmas and New Years Day particularly popular. 

There are handrails guiding the passage to the water, with a small diving platform for those looking to add a touch of adrenaline to their swim.

Portmarnock Beach

The 5 mile stretch of clean, sandy beach along Portmarnock is affectionately named the ‘Velvet Strand’ by Dubliners. The beach is watch by lifeguards during the summer and there are toilet facilities available. For avid sea swimmers, High Rock is situated to the north of Portmarnock Beach and is a popular swimming spot year round. 

The beach offers stunning views of Howth harbour and the distant Dublin Mountains. The nearby seaside towns of Portmarnock and Malahide are excellent locations for some restorative food and drink following a dip in the ocean.

The Vico Baths

Hidden away to the south of Dalkey village in South Dublin are The Vico Baths, one of the most secluded sea swimming spots in the city. A small concrete pier with handrails gives safe access to the sea, with an adjacent seawater pool offering a calmer bathing option.

The bathing area is quite popular with locals, and it should be noted that swimwear is optional. There is however a changing area for those opting for swimwear. 

Killiney Beach

Killiney Beach is a pebble beach that offers beautiful scenery as well as a popular sea swimming loop parallel to the shore. The loop is well-marked with three buoys. 

From the beach there is a great view of Bray Head. In addition, you may be lucky enough to spot the porpoises and seals that can often be seen in the area.

Seapoint Beach

The final entry on our list is Seapoint Beach, close to Dun Laoghaire in South Dublin. The beach is a popular sea swimming spot throughout the year, with locals often swimming until 9pm or 10pm during the summer months. In summer, the usually harsh water of the Irish Sea is generally warm enough to swim in for a few hours.

There is a loop of 1.6km marked by buoys which is in place all year round.