A list of so-called “hidden” swimming spots around Dublin has highlighted some of the capital’s lesser-known coastal dips, ranging from sheltered coves in Killiney to island swims off Howth, as high temperatures continue to draw people to the coast.
The collection by Irish media The Side Door features five locations that offer quieter alternatives to Dublin’s more crowded beaches, though most require a bit of effort to reach and are heavily dependent on tide and weather conditions.
Panoramic coastal view of Dublin, Ireland from Killiney Hill
One of the closest options to the city is White Rock, a small stony cove tucked beneath Killiney Hill. Despite being only around 40–50 minutes from Dublin city centre by DART, followed by a steep walk downhill, it still feels relatively secluded due to its awkward access.
The nearest station is Killiney DART Station, from which swimmers typically walk down through residential roads and coastal paths. Parking is extremely limited in the surrounding area, and during sunny weekends it can become congested quickly.
The reward is calm, clear water and sweeping views across Dublin Bay, with the cliff backdrop making it one of the most scenic low-key swim spots on the south coast.
Dalkey Island seen from Sorrento Point, Dalkey, Dublin, Ireland
Further along the coast sits Dalkey Island, a small uninhabited island that feels more remote than its proximity suggests.
Reaching it requires either a kayak or a short boat trip from Coliemore Harbour in Dalkey, which itself is roughly 45 minutes from the city centre taking the DART to Dalkey Station, followed by a 10–15 minute walk downhill.
There is no direct road access to the island, and parking near Coliemore Harbour is very limited.
The island offers a sheltered beach ideal for swimming in calm conditions, often with seals visible in the surrounding waters. The far side of the island is more exposed and only suitable for experienced swimmers, with changing tides and currents making conditions unpredictable.
Stoney Beach in Howth with a view of the Balscadden Bay. Salvador Maniquiz, Shutterstock
A short distance away from Dublin, Balscadden Bay Beach sits tucked beneath Howth village, just below the harbour cliffs. It can be reached in around 30–40 minutes from Dublin city centre taking the DART to Howth Station, followed by a walk of roughly 10–15 minutes.
Parking in Howth is available but fills quickly, particularly at weekends and during good weather, so public transport is usually the most practical option. Keep in mind that on weekends, the DART only runs every 30 minutes to/from Howth. This can cause a build up of crowds waiting to come back to Dublin, queuing at Howth Station, which can be quite impractical. In this case, the bus is also an option.
The beach itself is small and sheltered, with clear water on calm days, though swimmers are advised to check tides carefully as conditions can change quickly in this exposed inlet.
Ireland's Eye island cliffs.Howth, Dublin, Ireland Martello Tower
One of the more adventurous options is Ireland’s Eye, an island just off the coast of Howth.
It is accessible only by small boat, kayak or paddleboard from Howth Harbour, meaning the total journey from Dublin city centre typically takes 45–60 minutes including DART travel. The parking access and the DART's low frequency on weekends is the same as mentionned right above for the 4th spot of the list, Balscadden Bay Beach.
There is parking available in Howth, but it is often fully occupied during peak periods. Once on the island, swimmers can access a sandy beach with striking views back towards Howth and across Dublin Bay, with cliffs, seabird colonies and walking trails adding to the sense of isolation. The island is uninhabited and there are no facilities, so visitors need to be fully self-sufficient.
Red Rock Sutton Creek, Dublin, Ireland
The final location, Red Rock Beach in Sutton, is another rugged coastal stretch facing open water across Dublin Bay.
It is best suited to confident swimmers due to its exposed nature and rocky entry points. It can be reached in approximately 35–45 minutes from Dublin city centre taking the DART to Sutton Station, followed by a walk of around 20 minutes along the coastline.
Limited roadside parking is available nearby, but access on foot is often easier. The reward is uninterrupted sea views and a quieter atmosphere than nearby Howth beaches, though conditions can become rough quickly and swimmers are advised to choose calm days only.
Together, these spots highlight the range of coastal swimming options available around Dublin, from easily accessible urban dips to more remote island adventures.
With temperatures reaching record highs this week, as Met Éireann issued a yellow heat warning, Dublin's most popular sea swim spots will be packed.
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Last month, when Ireland experienced its first heatwave of 2026, thousands rushed to the Forty Foot, Seapoint and Blackrock, making these spots overcrowded and harder to access, and enjoy.
Knowing about these hidden gems around Dublin can really help avid swimmers and Irish sea first timers alike to make the best out of the high temperatures.
