Plazing in Ireland: the finest beaches of the country of the green clover

April 11, 2025

Ireland, known primarily for its verdant landscapes, historic castles and the hospitality of its people, hides another treasure - beautiful beaches. Although it may surprise many tourists, the Irish coast offers unforgettable views, crystal clear water and sandy beaches that are not inferior to those of warmer regions of Europe. In our guide, we'll take you on a journey to the Emerald Isle's finest beaches, where there's something for everyone - from tranquil coves perfect for a family vacation to wild beaches that attract surfers from around the world. Discover with us the charm of the Irish coast and find out that the country of the green clover has much more to offer than you might think!

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Pearls of the west coast

The west coast of Ireland is a true paradise for lovers of wildlife and spectacular views. Let's start our journey from Lahinch Beach, located in County Clare. This wide, sandy beach is a true mecca for surfers, offering some of the best conditions for the sport in all of Ireland. With a rating of 4.7 out of 5, Lahinch Beach attracts not only water sports enthusiasts, but also families looking for the perfect place to relax. Ample parking and accessible restrooms make it a comfortable place even for a longer stay. Of note is the cafe with 'really strong coffee for Bikers,' as one reviewer mentions.

Moving north, we come across scenic Streedagh Beach in County Sligo. This beach, rated 4.8, impresses with its long, sandy shoreline and crystal clear waters. It is an ideal place for those seeking tranquility and contact with nature. However, it's worth remembering to control the tides, as the beach can get considerably smaller when the water level is high. Additional attractions are the views of BenBulben Mountain and the possibility of finding fossils in the surrounding rocks.

Nearby, in County Donegal, a real gem awaits - Silver Strand. This beach, with a rating of 4.9, is considered one of the most beautiful in Ireland. The distinctive staircase leading up to the beach can be a challenge, but the view that unfolds from it makes up for any effort. The clear, warm water and soft sand make it an ideal place to relax. However, it is worth bearing in mind the limited number of parking spaces and the lack of toilets, which can be inconvenient for longer stays.

For those who prefer more developed tourist facilities, Tramore Beach in Waterford County would be an ideal choice. With a rating of 4.6, this beach offers not only beautiful views and a long, sandy shoreline, but also a number of attractions nearby. The amusement park, restaurants and pubs will provide entertainment after a day at the beach. However, it is worth noting that the beach is rocky in places, so it is advisable to bring appropriate footwear.

Each of these beaches has its own unique character and offers slightly different attractions. Lahinch and Streedagh are ideal for water sports enthusiasts, while Silver Strand and Tramore Beach are perfect for a family vacation. Whatever your choice, each of these locations guarantees an unforgettable experience and allows you to discover the true beauty of the Irish coast.

Hidden treasures of the Irish coast

Continuing our tour of Ireland's most beautiful beaches, we can't leave out Banna Beach in County Kerry. This beach, rated at an impressive 4.8, is considered one of the longest and prettiest in the entire country. The long, wide and sandy beach offers ideal conditions for walking and sunbathing. However, it is worth remembering that the parking lot can be crowded on sunny days, and restrooms are located some distance from the beach. Nonetheless, the cleanliness of the water and the expansive space ensure that Banna Beach remains one of the favorite vacation spots for locals and tourists alike.

Moving east, we come across Curracloe Beach in Wexford County. This beach, also with a 4.8 rating, became famous thanks to Steven Spielberg's 'Saving Private Ryan' movie. The long, sandy beach with soft sand is ideal for families with children. Although the bunker built for the film has been demolished, the beach itself still attracts movie and nature lovers. It is worth noting that Curracloe Beach is one of the cleanest beaches in Ireland, which is especially appreciated by parents of young children.

For those looking for truly unique views, we recommend Dog's Bay in County Galway. This beach, with a rating of 4.8, impresses with its horseshoe shape and crystal clear waters. The white sand and turquoise water feel like you've been transported to a tropical island. Dog's Bay is ideal for sunrises and sunsets, offering unforgettable views and atmosphere. However, it is worth remembering that the tourist infrastructure here is limited, which may be an advantage for some and a challenge for others.

Another hidden gem is Glassilaun Beach, also in County Galway. This beach, with a rating of 4.9, is a true paradise for wildlife lovers. Surrounded by high mountains, with crystal clear water and white sand, Glassilaun Beach offers almost fairytale-like views. It is an ideal place for those who appreciate tranquility and intimacy. However, it's worth noting that access to the beach can be difficult and infrastructure is minimal - the price for almost pristine nature.

Comparing these beaches, each has its own unique characteristics. Banna Beach and Curracloe are more accessible and offer better infrastructure, making them ideal for families with children. Dog's Bay and Glassilaun Beach, on the other hand, are true gems for those seeking tranquility and extraordinary views. Banna Beach stands out for its length and width, while Curracloe boasts movie fame. Dog's Bay charms with its shape and color of sand, while Glassilaun Beach offers the wildest and most inaccessible scenery. Choosing the perfect beach depends on individual preference, but each guarantees an unforgettable experience and contact with the beauty of Irish nature.

Ireland's most picturesque beaches

At the end of our tour of Ireland's finest beaches, we can't leave out a few special places that impress with their beauty and unique character.

Let's start with Fanore Beach in County Clare. This beach, with a rating of 4.7, is a true paradise for lovers of surreal landscapes. The distinctive orange sand contrasts with the blue of the ocean and the green of the surrounding hills, creating unforgettable views. Fanore Beach is popular with surfers for its excellent conditions for the sport. Of note are the active sand dunes and the nearby rocky landscape of the Burren lands, which add to the area's charm. Although parking is small and infrastructure is limited, the scenic qualities fully compensate for these inconveniences.

Moving north, we arrive at Portsalon Beach in County Donegal. This beach, rated at an impressive 4.9, is a true gem among Irish beaches. The long, sandy shoreline surrounded by picturesque cliffs offers spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean. Portsalon Beach boasts a Blue Flag, attesting to the cleanliness of the water and the high standard of infrastructure. There are restrooms and parking on site, making it convenient for families. However, it is worth remembering the restrictions on dogs during the summer season.

Heading back south, it's worth stopping at Tramore Beach in Waterford County. This beach, with a rating of 4.6, is one of the most popular in Ireland, offering a long, sandy beach ideal for walking and relaxing. Tramore Beach is notable for its developed tourist infrastructure - there are restaurants, pubs and an amusement park nearby, making it ideal for families looking for a variety of entertainment. However, it is worth remembering that the beach can be rocky, so appropriate footwear is recommended.

Comparing the three beaches, each offers something unique. Fanore Beach impresses with its surreal landscape and is ideal for those seeking unusual views and surfers. Portsalon Beach is the quintessential Irish coastline - a long, sandy beach with crystal clear waters, ideal for families and lovers of quiet relaxation. Tramore Beach, on the other hand, offers the most activities in the area, making it an excellent choice for those looking not only for beachcombing, but also for entertainment.

When choosing the perfect beach, there are several factors to consider. Fanore Beach is the least crowded and offers the most natural environment, but has limited infrastructure. Portsalon Beach combines natural beauty with convenience, offering clean water and basic amenities. Tramore Beach is the most developed for tourism, which can be an advantage for families with children, but also means larger crowds in high season.

Regardless of your choice, each of these beaches offers an unforgettable experience and allows you to discover the diversity of the Irish coast. From the wild, surreal landscapes of Fanore to the classic beauty of Portsalon to the bustling Tramore, Ireland's beaches have much to offer and certainly deserve the title of the green clover country's greatest beaches.

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