Ireland’s Best Island Beaches for a Swim and How to Reach Them

Ireland might not scream “tropical getaway,” but it’s absolutely packed with stunning island beaches where you can dive right into crystal-clear waters (yes, even if they're a bit brisk!).

1. Keem Bay, Achill Island, Co. Mayo

Keem Bay is a perfect horseshoe bay containing a popular Blue Flag beach at the head of a valley between the cliffs of Benmore to the west and Croaghaun mountain on the east. It's a favorite among wild swimmers!

Besides swimming, visitors can enjoy hiking trails and local seafood eateries.

How to Get There: Achill Island is accessible via a bridge from the mainland. From Westport, it's approximately a 1.5-hour drive

Pricing: Access to the beach is free

2. Dog’s Bay, Connemara, Co. Galway

Dog's Bay has a spectacular horseshoe shape with more than a mile long stretch of white sandy beach, competing even with the Caribbean! It's perfect for swimming and sunbathing. The area offers opportunities for water sports, walks, and exploring local art galleries.

How to Get There Located near Roundstone village, it's about a 1.5-hour drive from Galway City.

Pricing Beach access is free.

3. Trá Mór, Inis Oírr, Aran Islands

Trá Mór is a beach with particularly gentle waves, perfect for a relaxing swim! After swimming, you can explore the island's historic sites, or enjoy a traditional music session in a local pub like Tigh Ned.

How to Get There: Ferries to Inis Oírr depart from Doolin and Rossavel.

Pricing: Beach access is free; ferry prices vary.

4. Portacloy Beach, Co. Mayo

Portacloy’s beach is short but it is wonderfully protected and is perfectly suited to bathing (and picnicking!). After swimming, you can take advantage of the walking trails to both east and west of Portacloy. 

How to Get There: Accessible by car, it's located near the village of Portacloy in County Mayo.

Pricing: Free access to the beach.

5. Silver Strand, Sherkin Island, Co. Cork

Silver Strand is a beautiful sandy beach with magnificent views of Cape Clear Island and the Atlantic.  The island features art studios, walking trails, and a welcoming community.

How to Get There: Ferries to Sherkin Island depart from Baltimore, County Cork.

Pricing: Beach access is free; ferry fares apply.

6. Trá Bán, Great Blasket Island, Co. Kerry

The lovely beach of An Trá Ban lies on the east coast of Great Blasket Island, looking back towards the Dingle Peninsula. Whilst it is the only beach on the island its remote nature means it never gets busy. You will often get a chance to enjoy the golden sand and views back to Dingle by yourself before heading off to explore the island.

How to Get There: Boat tours to Great Blasket Island depart from Dún Chaoin Pier.

Pricing: Access to the beach is free; boat tour prices vary.

7. Garinish Beach, Beara Peninsula, Co. Cork

Garnish Beach is located at the southern tip of the Beara Peninsula, West Cork. It is a sandy beach with extraordinary views of Garnish Bay and the surrounding area. Afterwards, enjoy nearby hiking trails or visit the Dursey Island cable car!

How to Get There: Located at the southern tip of the Beara Peninsula, it's accessible by car via local coastal roads.

Pricing: Free access to the beach.

Get your swimsuit (or warm wetsuit, really) ready and set sail for an island beach adventure!