Ireland's Best Beaches

Nothing speaks to childhood like holidays at the beach, complete with dripping popsicles, sandcastle contests, and jars of sea glass. Ireland's beaches have long since been praised for their unparalleled beauty and serenity. At any Irish beach, there lingers a unique sense of solitude and history, making a day of seaside family fun worthy of scrapbook memories.

And for those who do not own a seaside holiday cottage, your scrapbook will not be any less thick. Holiday Homes Direct is featuring several self catering holiday homes along Ireland’s picturesque coastline. Here is a list of some of our favorite beaches, and be sure to click on the links to see our holiday homes nearby!

North and South Beach, Brittas Bay, Co Wicklow- Brittas’ North and South beaches make up 5km of pristine virgin sand that feels so light underneath your feet; it feels as if you are the first to walk upon it. The series of dunes that appear more like troughs of a meringue cake than sand are surrounded by sweet shops and sport centres perfect for any family outing. And if you are looking for a less tourist-ed beach, venture to the hidden coves of the nearby Silver Strand, said to be the most picturesque beach on Ireland’s east coast.

Tramore, Co Waterford- Tramore is ideal for beachgoers who are not quite sure whether they want a lively or calm atmosphere. At the far end, Tramore is bustling with the promenade, shops, cafes, and day trippers; while at the other end, there lies only the echo of crashing waves against the shore. If your idea of beach fun involves more privacy, trek to the secluded spots of Saleens, Garris, and Kilfarassy beaches.

Garretstown, Co Cork- Garretstown is Cork’s most ideal beach for family fun. Sprinkled with hidden coves, this beach is perfect for large or small groups. When the tide is low, the moist sand is the requisite surface for beach games. The variety of waves will amuse everyone from aspiring surfers to adventuresome toddlers. With Garretstown's proximity to Kinsale, one of Ireland's premier sailing centres, beachgoers can get off land and go for a family outing on sea.

Inchydoney, Co Cork- Make like the political elite and travel to Inchydoney to wriggle your toes into the fine Irish sand. When the tide travels out, the sand becomes a majestic world reaching as far as the eye can see. A causeway links Inchydoney Island with Clonakilty, the center of west Cork culinary activity, making it a perfect stop for grabbing picnic supplies on the way to the beach. 

North and South Beach, Ballybunion, Co Kerry- While a family day in the sun often implies hours devoted to the children, Ballybunion flips this presumption upside down. While one parent can take the kids to either of the two superb beaches,  the other can fit in a round of golf at one of Ballybunion's world-class courses or soak in a seaweed bath at the Ladies Beach. Follow Ballybunion's cliff walk north to reach Nuns Beach, a majestic cove of sand, with several caves and sea arches to explore.

Keem, Achill Island, Co Mayo- After a steep and somewhat intimidating climb, you will descend on a cove of hidden beauty that needs no frills or amusements, to make it utterly enjoyable. Nestled at the bottom of a valley, Keem’s views and natural beauty make it ideal for a sheltered family picnic and swim that should not be missed. Achill's other tremendous Blue Flag beaches includes south-facing Trawmore, Dooega, and the north-facing Dugort.


Rossnowlagh, Co Donegal- It is tradition in Rossnowlagh for families to motor onto the packed sand, with the car bulging with gear. Midday you will be immersed in a sea of cars flanked by umbrellas, chairs, and blankets. Rossnowlagh is ideal for beachgoers looking to have fun in the sun and meet new people. For those who are not fans of cars on beaches, head south to breathtaking Tullan, or north to Murvagh. Nearby on the west-facing slice of Donegal Bay is the very popular Fin McCool Surf School.

All of these beaches have been awarded a Blue Flag for 2009 and are guaranteed to keep you entertained while staying at our holiday homes! Also, take a peak at our special offers for some great last minute holiday deals!