Overview
Brittas Bay (Irish: Cuan na mBriotais) lies on the Irish Sea coast of County Wicklow, about 40 km (25 mi) south of Dublin and 12 km (7.5 mi) south of Wicklow town. The beach stretches roughly 4 km (2½ mi) of soft, cream‑white sand backed by an extensive dune system that covers around 100 ha. It has earned a European Union Blue Flag for several consecutive years, signalling high standards of water quality, safety and environmental management. The bay is a favourite day‑trip destination for Dubliners, families and water‑sport enthusiasts.
The beach is divided into a North and a South section – there is no physical barrier between them and you can walk the whole length without interruption. Both sections are lifeguarded from early June to late September, typically between 11:00 am and 7:00 pm, and have their own car parks and facilities.
History & Background
Brittas Bay sits in the civil parish of Dunganstown, within the historic barony of Arklow. Early Christian activity is recorded at nearby Three‑Mile‑Water, where a settlement presided over by the Roman prelate Palladius existed before St Patrick’s arrival in 431 AD. Later, the monk St Baoithin and his pupil St Kevin (founder of Glendalough) were linked to the region.
In the 17th century the secluded cove known as Jack’s Hole became the base of the smuggler‑pirate Captain Jack White, who intercepted British merchant ships and funneled French goods into Ireland, much to the Crown’s annoyance.
The modern landscape is dotted with landmarks that echo this past: the ruins of Dunganstown Castle to the north‑east, several caravan parks (Staunton’s, O’Drischoll’s, Brittas Bay Park) and the European Club golf course near the hamlet of Ardanary. The beach has also featured in film – scenes from John Boorman’s Zardoz (1974), the 2002 adaptation of The Count of Monte Cristo and the History Channel series Vikings were shot here.
Nature & Conservation
The dunes form a designated Special Area of Conservation (SAC). The 100‑ha dune system supports rare coastal plants such as the Pyramidal Orchid and Dune Pansy, and butterflies including the Dark Green Fritillary, Little Blue and Small Heath. Mammals such as wood mice, badgers, rabbits and red foxes are regular sightings, while the adjoining waters host species like the endangered Common Skate.
What to See & Do
Walking, Sunrises & Wildlife
The uninterrupted 4 km walk from the north to the south end of the bay takes about an hour at a leisurely pace and offers sunrise views over the Irish Sea. The dunes provide a mosaic of habitats – sand‑fens, grassland and coastal ferns – ideal for botanists and bird‑watchers.
Water Sports
The Irish Sea provides consistent surf for beginners and intermediate riders. Brittas Bay Surf School – the first dedicated surf school on Ireland’s east coast – offers group lessons, private coaching, SUP (stand‑up paddleboard) sessions and kids’ camps. Gear hire is available on‑site, and daily surf reports are posted on the school’s Facebook page.
Horseback Riding & Golf
A unique way to experience the dunes is on horseback; local operators run rides that let you feel the salt‑kissed wind while trotting along the shoreline. Golf enthusiasts can head a short drive south to the European Club near Ardanary, a scenic links‑style course with views over the bay.
Food & Family Amenities
After a day on the sand, the Elephant & Castle restaurant – perched on a cliff overlooking the bay – serves classic Irish fare and a pint of Guinness, with a playground that makes it a family‑friendly stop. For a quick caffeine fix, the Bay Café (5‑minute drive from the beach) opens Tuesday‑Sunday, 8:30‑15:30, offering coffee, pastries and light lunches.
Accommodation & Camping
The area is home to several caravan parks – Staunton’s, O’Drischoll’s and Brittas Bay Park – which provide shower facilities for guests. Private holiday homes and B&Bs are also available in the surrounding villages of Ardanary and Dunganstown.
Nearby Beaches
- Blainroe Beach – 4.2 km north‑west, popular with walkers.
- Silver Strand – 4.6 km south‑west, quieter and ideal for a relaxed stroll.
- Arklow South Beach – 7.1 km south, a larger sandy expanse.
- Ballymoney – 13.7 km south, a more secluded spot.
Accessibility & Facilities
- Wheelchair access – a designated accessible route operates from mid‑June to mid‑September; advance booking with Wicklow County Council is required.
- Public toilets – located near each car park.
- Bins and recycling – plentiful throughout the site; visitors are asked to take any litter with them.
- Showers – none on the beach; nearby caravan parks provide shower facilities for guests.
- Café & restaurant – Elephant & Castle and Bay Café (see above).
Getting There & Transport
The R750 regional road runs parallel to the beach, providing easy car access. Public transport is limited but Bus Éireann route 2 stops at Jack White’s Cross (service reinstated August 2013) with a few daily journeys between Dublin and Wexford. The nearest train station is Wicklow (Iarnród Éireann), about a 15‑minute drive away.
Parking & Fees
There are two main car parks – one for the north beach and one for the south beach. Both charge €4 per day during the high (summer) season; off‑season parking is free.
| Section | Google Maps Link |
|---|---|
| North Beach Car Park | View |
| South Beach Car Park | View |
Dog Policy
Dogs are permitted on a lead from October to May (low season) and must be under strict supervision. From May to September (peak season) dogs are not allowed on the sand or dunes.
Nearby Attractions
- Avondale Forest Park – 25‑minute drive; features a Treetop Walk and viewing tower.
- Wicklow Gaol – 20‑minute drive; historic prison with guided and VR tours.
- National Botanic Gardens, Kilmacurragh – 15‑minute drive; renowned rhododendron collection.
- Dunganstown Castle – visible from the northern dunes.
- Arklow Maritime Museum – 20‑minute drive; maritime heritage of the nearby port town.
- European Club Golf Course – links‑style course just south of the bay, near the hamlet of Ardanary.
- Jack White’s Pub – historic pub at Jack White’s Cross, named after the 17th‑century smuggler.
Brittas Bay offers a harmonious blend of natural beauty, historic intrigue and modern recreation, making it a compelling stop on any Wicklow itinerary.