Imagine strolling along the promenade, eating delicious foods, and watching the boats pass by. No, we’re not talking about some exotic Mediterranean resort. Instead, you can experience all this and more in Ireland. Adventurers can indulge in a variety of water sports, such as surfing, kayaking, coasteering, and snorkeling. Also, there are family-friendly beaches that have all the amenities you need for a fun time outdoors. In addition, the Emerald Isle has ancient fortifications, bustling cities, and fishing hamlets. For a good night’s rest, there are plenty of accommodation options as well. Here’s our round-up of the best beach resorts in Ireland.
We handpicked these listings carefully, considering (wherever possible) recent guest reviews, location, accommodation type, prices, availability of dates, decor, and access to beach. The image galleries get refreshed with the latest updates regularly. They were last updated on April 11, 2024.
1. Trump International Golf Links & Hotel Doonbeg Ireland (from USD 347)
This hotel is renowned for its excellent customer service and is just 274 m (902 ft) from the beach. It boasts an award-winning golf course, a state-of-the-art spa, and two restaurants serving Irish and American fare. The interiors of the guest rooms and suites are decorated in the style of the Irish countryside and feature traditional wooden beams.
For a luxe experience, book the Classic Links Cottage which boasts farmland or golf fairways views and is fitted with a full kitchen and comfy beds.
2. Seafield Hotel & Spa Resort, Gorey (from USD 176)
For a true wellness escape, book this modern and stylish hotel nestled amidst woodlands, about 1000 m (3281 ft) from Ballymoney Beach. It has a full-service spa with a hydrotherapy pool, an outdoor pool, thermal suites, a sunken garden, and 14 treatment rooms. A few days of pampering here will relieve any stress and tension.
There are a number of special deals available, including gourmet dining specials and spa specials. The holiday resort in Ireland also offers spacious rooms and apartments with a balcony and free wireless internet access.
Other accommodations near the beach
3. Butler Arms Hotel, Waterville (from USD 221)
Excellent value for money, especially for the sea view rooms.
Spacious rooms, beautiful location, bar, billiards room, and parking available.
Centrally located with easy access to the beach, village, and scenic walking paths.
Delicious and varied breakfast options, exceptional dinner choices, and friendly, attentive staff.
Just a stone’s throw away from Waterville Beach, you can almost taste the salt air when you arrive at this hotel. This stylish yet historic hotel has been welcoming guests for over 100 years. The rooms are comfortable and elegant, with a choice between garden or Atlantic ocean views.
For fresh seafood and a pint of stout, head to the in-house Fishermen’s Bar & Store. There is also a full restaurant, which is open for breakfast and serves traditional Irish fare.
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4. An Cruiscin Lan, Spiddal (from USD 129)
Situated right on Galway Bay, this family-run hotel has 14 traditional guest rooms. Whether you are a solo traveler or a family, An Cruiscin Lan has a perfect room for you. Another highlight is the bright conservatory, which covers the length of the back of the building.
There is also an outdoor seating area, which is simply divine in the warmer summer months. If you wish to venture out and explore, Spiddal Pier Beach is just 300 m (984 ft) away, while several local boutiques and craft stores are within walking distance of the property.
An Cruiscin Lan
Address: Spiddal Village, Connemara
5. The Marine Boutique Hotel, Ballybunion (from USD 194)
You won’t be able to miss the blue exterior of this hotel, which is just 400 m (1312 ft) from Ballybunion Beach. Inside, the rooms are modern and equipped with a flat-screen TV and a tea/coffee maker. Unique, traditional Irish artwork and photographs hang on the walls, thus adding to its charm.
Feeling peckish? Head to the on-site restaurant and savor Irish or international fare while soaking in the views of the Wild Atlantic Sea. For a nightcap, Marine Bar is the perfect place. You can choose from their extensive selection of wines, beers, and spirits and enjoy it on the outdoor terrace overlooking the beach.
The Marine Boutique Hotel
Address: Ballybunion Sandhill Road
6. Marine Hotel, Sutton (from USD 156)
At Marine Hotel, you can choose between a standard room and a superior room. Standard rooms are comfortable and come with a satellite TV and a tea/coffee maker. Superior rooms boast impressive sea views and a walk-in shower, ideal for washing off the sand from the beach, which is just a five-minute walk away. Go for a swim in the indoor pool, where you won’t have to worry about sand, and then unwind in the sauna or steam room afterward.
7. Shoreline Hotel, Donabate (from USD 202)
Nestled right on the beach, it’s easy to see the inspiration for the name. The 2.4 mi (4 km) coastline is right on your doorstep, so whether you want to go for a dip, hunt shells, or simply stroll hand-in-hand with your loved ones, Shoreline Hotel is perfect for you.
There are sea-view and garden-view rooms to choose from. Although all rooms are stylish and have complimentary WiFi, there are unique features to each room type, so be sure to check online carefully.
Shoreline Hotel
Address: Donabate On The Beach
8. Arnolds Hotel & Riding Stables, Dunfanaghy (from USD 123)
With real open fires in the bar area, scenic coastal views, and access to an equestrian center, Arnolds Hotel & Riding Stables guarantees a memorable guest experience. There are also beauty and spa treatments available for those of you interested in a bit of pampering or grooming.
It is worth noting that this property is just 900 m (2963 ft) from Killahoey Beach, which is popular for swimming. After coming back from the beach, be sure to reserve a spot for the Irish afternoon tea. You won’t be disappointed.
9. Caisleain Oir Hotel, Annagry (from USD 134)
Caisleain Oir Hotel is a family-owned hotel that is just 1.5 mi (2.4 km) from Carrickfinn Beach. The property offers comfy rooms and suites with mod cons such as a TV, free wireless internet access, and a tea/coffee maker. The deluxe Neptune Suite has wicker hanging chairs, soft mood lighting, and a jet stream tub. Some units also offer amazing bay views.
After getting ready in the room, head down on a Saturday night to enjoy live Irish music in the bar. When it’s time to eat, enjoy fresh seafood in the in-house restaurant.
10. The Viking House Hotel, Kincasslagh (from USD 137)
Once owned by the famous singer Daniel O'Donnell, the Viking House Hotel offers 12 simple yet comfortable guest rooms. The property has a relaxed vibe and is family-friendly. All rooms come with an en-suite bathroom and a tea/coffee maker. Some of the rooms also offer rugged coastal views.
If you wish to soak up the sun and salt, the nearest beach is 1 mi (1.6 km) away. Free parking is available on the premises. Being on the coast, you can also expect a delectable array of local fresh fish on the menu.
Enjoy the Irish hospitality
The Emerald Isle is known for its warm hospitality, and the above-listed beach resorts excel in that department. These resorts offer a unique opportunity to explore the rugged coast of Ireland, plus they are equipped with modern comforts. There are also luxury villas and holiday cottages with sea views in Ireland that you can look into.
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