Dublin Bay: A Coastal Gem
Discover Dublin Bay: A stunning coastal haven with sandy beaches, charming villages, and a vibrant maritime heritage waiting to be explored.
Dublin Bay, a scenic C-shaped inlet of the Irish Sea, is a defining feature of Dublin's landscape, offering sandy beaches, charming villages, and a rich maritime history. From tranquil strolls to thrilling watersports, the bay provides a diverse range of activities and breathtaking views.
A brief summary to Dublin Bay
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Local tips
- Check the tide times before visiting the beaches, as the water levels can vary significantly.
- Take the DART (Dublin Area Rapid Transit) for scenic coastal views and easy access to many of the bay's attractions.
- Enjoy fresh seafood at one of the many restaurants in Howth or Dun Laoghaire.
- Visit North Bull Island to experience the unique ecosystem of a UNESCO biosphere reserve.
- Pack layers, as the weather can change quickly, especially near the coast.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Dublin city center, the DART (Dublin Area Rapid Transit) is a convenient way to reach many points along Dublin Bay. For destinations like Sandymount, Dun Laoghaire, or Howth, take the DART to the corresponding station. A single journey within the Dublin area typically costs around €2-€4, depending on the distance. Dublin Bus also operates several routes that serve the Dublin Bay area. Check the Dublin Bus website or app for specific routes and timetables. A single bus fare is approximately €3.
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Taxi/Ride-sharing
Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are readily available in Dublin. A taxi from the city center to a location on Dublin Bay, such as Dun Laoghaire, will cost approximately €20-€30, depending on traffic and the specific destination. Note that prices may be higher during peak hours or on weekends.
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Driving
If driving from Dublin city center, follow the R131 or R138 for the north side of Dublin Bay, or the N31 for the south side. Parking is available at various locations along the bay, including beaches and town centers. However, parking can be limited, especially during peak season and on weekends. Some areas may have pay-and-display parking, with hourly rates around €1-€4 and daily caps around €5-€20. Fingal County Council is proposing a €1-an-hour fee as part of changes to their parking regulations.
Discover more about Dublin Bay
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Great South Wall
3.1 km
Explore the Great South Wall in Dublin for stunning coastal views, rich maritime history, and a tranquil escape amidst nature's beauty.
Tom Clarke Bridge
6.3 km
Experience the beauty and history of Dublin at the Tom Clarke Bridge, a stunning architectural marvel connecting the vibrant city over the River Liffey.
St. Mary's Church
6.8 km
Experience the serene beauty and rich history of St. Mary's Church in Howth, Dublin, a stunning example of Gothic architecture and a peaceful retreat.
Dalkey Castle & Heritage Centre
6.8 km
Discover the historic charm of Dalkey Castle & Heritage Centre, where Ireland's rich past meets stunning views of Dublin Bay in a captivating experience.
N Wall Quay
7.0 km
Experience the lively waterfront of N Wall Quay in Dublin, where modern architecture meets rich maritime history and vibrant local culture.
Sir John Rogerson's Quay
7.0 km
Explore the vibrant riverside of Sir John Rogerson's Quay in Dublin, where history meets modernity, offering scenic views and delightful dining options.
Diving Bell
7.0 km
Explore the historic Diving Bell at Grand Canal Dock, a captivating symbol of Dublin's maritime heritage with stunning views and vibrant surroundings.
The Old Courthouse
7.1 km
Explore the historic Old Courthouse in Howth, a charming landmark showcasing Dublin's rich heritage and stunning coastal beauty.
Casino of Marino
7.3 km
Explore the Casino of Marino, an architectural masterpiece in Dublin that offers a glimpse into Ireland's rich history and stunning design.
Irish Architectural Archive
7.5 km
Explore Ireland's architectural legacy at the Irish Architectural Archive, a cultural center dedicated to preserving and showcasing the nation's rich architectural history.
The Jeanie Johnston: An Irish Famine Story
7.6 km
Explore the heart-wrenching stories of the Irish Famine at The Jeanie Johnston, a unique museum experience in Dublin's vibrant waterfront.
Patrick Kavanagh Statue (1991) by John Coll
7.6 km
Explore the serene beauty of the Patrick Kavanagh Statue in Dublin's Grand Canal Dock, a tribute to Ireland's literary legacy and poetic inspiration.
4 Merrion Square S
7.6 km
Discover the beauty of Merrion Square, Dublin's historic Georgian park filled with art, culture, and lush greenery.
Bernardo O'Higgins
7.7 km
Experience the beauty and history of the Bernardo O'Higgins sculpture in Dublin's serene Merrion Square, a must-visit for art lovers and tourists alike.
Merrion Square Park
7.7 km
Explore Merrion Square Park, Dublin's historic green oasis filled with beauty, culture, and the legacy of Oscar Wilde.
Unmissable attractions to see
Poolbeg Lighthouse
1.3 km
Explore the historic Poolbeg Lighthouse in Dublin, a stunning landmark with breathtaking views and rich maritime heritage, perfect for your travel memories.
Poolbeg
3.6 km
Experience the charm of Poolbeg Peninsula in Dublin, where breathtaking views, rich history, and serene nature await every traveler.
Bull Wall
3.6 km
Explore Bull Wall in Dublin, a scenic bridge offering breathtaking views of the River Tolka and a serene escape into nature.
North Bull Island
3.7 km
Explore North Bull Island, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, and immerse yourself in the stunning natural beauty and rich biodiversity just outside Dublin.
Dún Laoghaire West Pier
3.7 km
Explore the scenic Dún Laoghaire West Pier, a picturesque fishing pier with stunning views and a vibrant atmosphere in Dublin Bay.
Dun Laoghaire Harbour West
3.8 km
Discover the picturesque Dun Laoghaire Harbour West, where stunning views meet vibrant maritime culture in County Dublin.
East Pier Lighthouse
3.9 km
Explore the East Pier Lighthouse in Glasthule, Dublin, a historic landmark offering breathtaking views and a tranquil escape along the scenic coastline.
West Harbour Dún Laoghaire
4.0 km
Explore the picturesque West Harbour Dún Laoghaire, where stunning coastal views and rich maritime culture await every visitor.
Dún Laoghaire East Pier
4.1 km
Experience the stunning views and rich maritime history at Dún Laoghaire East Pier, a must-visit destination along Dublin's scenic coastline.
Boyd Monument
4.2 km
Explore the majestic Boyd Monument in Dún Laoghaire, a historic tribute to maritime heritage with stunning coastal views.
Dun Laoghaire Harbour
4.3 km
Explore the charm of Dun Laoghaire Harbour with its scenic views, rich history, and vibrant maritime culture, a perfect getaway near Dublin.
Dun Laoghaire Port
4.3 km
Explore the stunning Dun Laoghaire Port, a picturesque seaport with vibrant culture, scenic promenades, and delightful dining options along the Irish coast.
Dun Laoghaire Harbour East
4.4 km
Explore Dun Laoghaire Harbour East, a historic coastal gem offering stunning views, maritime activities, and delightful local dining experiences.
Martello Tower Sutton
4.4 km
Explore the historic Martello Tower Sutton, a unique guest house and wedding venue with stunning coastal views and rich Irish heritage.
Pigeon House Harbour
4.4 km
Experience the tranquil beauty of Pigeon House Harbour, a hidden gem on the Irish coast perfect for relaxation, birdwatching, and scenic strolls.
Essential places to dine
Seasons Restaurant
6.2 km
Experience the finest in modern Irish cuisine at Seasons Restaurant in Dublin, where seasonal ingredients meet exceptional culinary artistry.
The Old Spot
6.6 km
Experience the best of Irish gastronomy at The Old Spot - where tradition meets modern culinary excellence in Dublin.
MV Cill Airne
7.0 km
Discover the essence of modern European cuisine at MV Cill Airne – where exceptional flavors meet breathtaking riverside views in Dublin.
Mulberry Garden
7.0 km
Experience exquisite Irish cuisine at Mulberry Garden, where tradition meets innovation in a charming Dublin setting.
Bloom Brasserie
7.4 km
Savor the essence of French cuisine at Bloom Brasserie – Dublin's hidden culinary gem with exquisite flavors and warm hospitality.
Note Dublin
7.6 km
Experience innovative Spanish cuisine at Note Dublin – where every dish tells a story in the heart of Ireland's vibrant capital.
La Peniche
7.7 km
Experience modern Irish cuisine aboard La Peniche on Dublin's scenic Grand Canal - where taste meets tranquility.
Speranza Restaurant @ The Mont
7.8 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors in the heart of Dublin at Speranza Restaurant – where every dish tells a story.
The Little Kitchen
7.9 km
Discover the flavors of Ireland at The Little Kitchen - where traditional meets modern in a cozy Dublin setting.
The Cellar Bar
7.9 km
Discover Dublin's charm at The Cellar Bar, where elegance meets exquisite cuisine in the heart of Ireland's capital.
Restaurant Patrick Guilbaud
7.9 km
Experience culinary artistry at Restaurant Patrick Guilbaud – Dublin's premier destination for exquisite fine dining with seasonal Irish flavors.
Suesey Street
7.9 km
Experience the finest modern European cuisine at Suesey Street in Dublin, where fresh ingredients meet innovative cooking in a stylish setting.
Pearl Brasserie
7.9 km
Discover Pearl Brasserie: A fine dining experience blending French elegance with Asian flavors in Dublin's vibrant culinary scene.
The Garden Room
7.9 km
Discover the culinary charm of The Garden Room in Dublin with its Modern European dishes crafted from fresh local ingredients.
Foley's Bar
8.0 km
Discover Foley's Bar: A vibrant gastropub and live music venue in Dublin offering delicious food and authentic Irish entertainment.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Ribbon Rouge Boutique
5.7 km
Discover the latest trends in women's fashion at Ribbon Rouge Boutique in Dublin's Merrion Shopping Centre, a must-visit for fashion enthusiasts.
Stillorgan Village
6.9 km
Explore Stillorgan Village: A Dublin shopping haven offering unique boutiques, eateries, and a vibrant local atmosphere for every visitor.
Surround - Gifts - Woman’s Boutique Clothing
7.1 km
Discover unique gifts and stylish women's clothing at Surround, a charming boutique in the heart of Howth, Dublin.
Louise Kennedy
7.6 km
Explore the luxurious world of Louise Kennedy, Dublin's premier fashion designer, offering timeless women's clothing with a touch of elegance.
Traditional Craft Limited
7.7 km
Explore Traditional Craft Limited in Dublin for unique handmade crafts that showcase Ireland's rich artistic heritage and creativity.
EPIC Museum Gift Shop
7.7 km
Explore the EPIC Museum Gift Shop for unique Irish gifts and souvenirs that showcase the rich heritage of Ireland.
The Gallery Shop
7.9 km
Explore The Gallery Shop in Dublin for unique gifts and art-inspired treasures that reflect Ireland's rich cultural heritage.
A Gift Ireland
7.9 km
Discover authentic Irish souvenirs at A Gift Ireland, a charming shop in the heart of Dublin, perfect for unique keepsakes from your travels.
Under The Bridge
8.0 km
Explore Under The Bridge, Dublin’s charming antique store, where unique vintage treasures await every curious traveler.
Kilkenny Design
8.1 km
Explore Kilkenny Design, Dublin's premier destination for authentic Irish goods, delightful café experiences, and unique local craftsmanship.
Trinity Gift Shop
8.2 km
Discover unique Irish gifts and souvenirs at Trinity Gift Shop, nestled in the historic Trinity College Dublin, a must-visit for every traveler.
The Angel of Grafton Street
8.4 km
Explore the enchanting Angel of Grafton Street, a stunning statue that embodies Dublin's rich cultural heritage amidst the vibrant atmosphere of Grafton Street.
Marks and Spencer
8.4 km
Discover high-quality groceries and stylish clothing at Marks and Spencer in Dublin's bustling Grafton Street, a must-visit for every tourist.
Seasons of Ireland
8.4 km
Explore authentic Irish gifts and souvenirs at Seasons of Ireland, a charming gift shop in the heart of Dublin's Grafton Street.
& Other Stories
8.4 km
Discover & Other Stories, Dublin's fashion gem, offering chic women's clothing and accessories in a stylish setting on Grafton Street.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Green Room Bar
6.6 km
Experience the best of Dublin dining at The Green Room Bar, where exceptional grill flavors meet a lively pub atmosphere in North Wall.
Searsons
7.3 km
Discover the heart of Dublin's nightlife at Searsons, where traditional Irish pub culture meets modern gastropub fare.
Maher's Pub
7.6 km
Discover Maher's Pub in Dublin: A classic Irish bar offering a warm atmosphere, great drinks, and unforgettable experiences in the heart of the city.
The Sin Bin
7.8 km
Experience Dublin's vibrant sports culture at The Sin Bin, where delicious food, refreshing drinks, and live sports create an unforgettable atmosphere.
McGrattans Pub
7.8 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of McGrattans Pub, a must-visit bar and grill in Dublin for a taste of local culture and cuisine.
Toners
7.9 km
Discover the heart of Dublin's pub culture at Toners, where traditional Irish hospitality meets lively entertainment and delicious cuisine.
Doheny & Nesbitt
7.9 km
Discover the authentic Irish pub experience at Doheny & Nesbitt, Dublin's iconic bar known for its rich history and vibrant atmosphere.
Americana Cocktail Bar
7.9 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Americana Cocktail Bar in Ranelagh, Dublin, where exquisite cocktails meet live music and a lively atmosphere.
O'Neills Victorian Pub & Townhouse
7.9 km
Discover the vibrant spirit of Dublin at O'Neills Victorian Pub & Townhouse, where traditional Irish cuisine meets lively entertainment.
Pavilion Bar
7.9 km
Discover the vibrant Pavilion Bar in Dublin, where affordable drinks and a lively atmosphere await in the heart of the city.
Reilly's Bar
8.0 km
Reilly's Bar in Dublin: A cozy haven for tourists, offering a wide selection of drinks and live music in a warm, inviting atmosphere.
O'Donoghues Bar
8.0 km
Experience the warmth of Irish hospitality at O'Donoghues Bar, Dublin's iconic pub known for its traditional music and authentic atmosphere.
The Horseshoe Bar
8.1 km
Discover The Horseshoe Bar, a must-visit grill in Dublin, blending traditional Irish hospitality with contemporary dining experiences.
No. 27 Bar & Lounge
8.1 km
Experience the elegance of No. 27 Bar & Lounge in Dublin, where unique cocktails and delightful desserts await in a sophisticated setting.
Cellar 22
8.2 km
Discover Cellar 22, Dublin's top wine bar and restaurant, offering a perfect blend of exquisite wines and delicious culinary delights in a charming atmosphere.
