TAKE a look at Ireland’s best beaches for sea swimming as temperatures continue to rocket this summer.
The Irish bathing season runs right up until September 15 – when waters are at their warmest.
2GB5KWG Two people walking on Dog’s Bay Beach, near Roundstone, Connemara, County Galway, Ireland[/caption]
Sea swimming has become hugely popular in recent years, especially amongst younger generations.
With temperatures reaching near record-breaking levels over the weekend, Ireland is “highly likely” to have a warmer-than-average summer, according to Met Éireann.
And there is more sunshine expected this summer with above average temperatures and potentially drier conditions in the second half of July.
Here are five of the most breathtaking beaches with jaw-dropping views to check out over the next few weeks.
PORTSALON BEACH
Portsalon beach is one of the country’s most breathtaking spots[/caption]
Portsalon beach, which is located on the western side of Lough Swilly between Rathmullan and Fanad Head in Co Donegal, boasts over a mile of perfect golden sand.
Also known as Ballymastocker Beach, the beautiful spot was once voted as the second most beautiful in the world – beaten to the top spot by a beach in the Seychelles.
The glittering sand has even attracted Taylor Swift – who paid a visit to the beach in the summer of 2021.
The Blue Flag beach has clear water to swim in, plenty of waves for the surfers and sheltered coves for escaping the wind.
It’s a 20-minute spin from both Ramelton and Rathmullan, a 25-minute drive from Downings and a 30-minute drive from Letterkenny.
There’s parking near the southern end of the beach, however, the car park can get crowded during the warmer summer months so you may have to arrive early to secure a spot.
There are also toilets on-site and a couple of picnic benches.
Life guards are on duty from June until September from 12.00pm – 18.30pm.
STRANDHILL BEACH
Strandhill beach is one of the best spots in Europe for surfing[/caption]
It is located a kilometre from Sligo town; the Strandhill beach lies along the Wild Atlantic Way.
And it has also been named one of the best locations in Europe for surfing.
Spanning around 11km long, the golden sand is perfect for long walks or days spent by the sea.
The route hosts stunning views of Knocknarea Mountain, Benbulben, Sligo Bay, and Coney Island.
The quaint holiday spot of Strandhill village runs along the beachfront.
It offers restaurants, shops, pubs, a golf course, and a large camping site.
From locals to those visiting, there are plenty of cafes to grab a coffee from and enjoy a stroll along the sand.
There are no life guards on site.
DOG’S BAY
Dog’s Bay in Co Galway is hugely popular for its pet friendly environment[/caption]
Dog’s Bay in Galway is the perfect place to soak up the sun this summer.
Located just 3 kilometres from the village Roundstone in Galway, this spectacular horseshoe shape bay is known as one of the most beautiful beaches in Ireland.
The beach stretches across the Wild Atlantic Way, and offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Known for its stunning soft white sand that is made entirely from sea shell fragments, the beach has been likened to Thailand and other tropical destinations.
This beach is located an hour and a half from Galway City and offers a ton of opportunities for outdoor activities
Visitors can go for a dip in the Atlantic Ocean, and take in all the breathtaking views.
However, there are no life guards present.
This fabulous beach is also hugely popular for its pet friendly environment.
CURRACLOE BEACH
Curracloe beach in Wexford is a great spot for family fun[/caption]
It is located in County Wexford, stretches for 11km from Raven Point to Ballyconigar near Blackwater – and it is a particularly safe area for bathing.
And the beach has shaded areas near the Raven Nature Reserve if you need a break from the heat – as temperatures are set to soar to 28C this weekend.
The golden strand is accompanied by hilly sand dunes where various plants bloom in spring and summer.
There are around 500 parking spaces, the majority of which are at White Gap.
There are four disabled parking spaces at White Gap and two at Ballineskar.
You can also get a Beach Wheelchair for free at White Gap, though pre-booking is recommended through the warden.
There are male, female and disabled toilets available at White Gap, and just male and female amenities at Ballinesker.
BURROW BEACH
Burrow beach has beautiful soft sand[/caption]
Burrow Beach in Sutton is a green flag Irish beach with spectacular island views is just half an hour from Dublin city.
The Dublin beach, stretching across 1.2 kilometers, is a well-known detour if you’re passing Howth.
The popular beach boasts soft golden sand, sand dunes and a stunning view of Ireland’s Eye.
Visitors might spot some kite surfers or wind surfers on windy days.
There are lifeguards on duty from 11am to 7pm on Saturdays and Sundays in June and every day from July to August.
It’s the perfect spot for little ones to build sand castles with its soft golden sand.
