Overview
Portmarnock Beach, affectionately called the Velvet Strand for its silky sand, lies on the north‑eastern fringe of Dublin City. The 8 km stretch of golden shoreline runs from the village of Portmarnock down to Baldoyle and links seamlessly with Malahide Beach. In 2022 the beach earned a Blue Flag award, confirming high standards of water quality, safety and environmental management. Backed by rolling dunes that host a surprising variety of flora, the beach offers uninterrupted views of the Dublin Mountains, Howth Harbour, Ireland’s Eye and Lambay Island.
History
While the dunes and surf are the main draw today, Portmarnock holds a proud place in aviation lore. On 23 June 1930 pioneering Australian aviator Charles Kingsford Smith used the soft sand as a makeshift runway for the Southern Cross, launching the second westbound trans‑Atlantic flight. A striking Eccentric Orbit sculpture at the northern end commemorates this historic flight, blending bronze, limestone and stainless steel. The town’s aviation heritage is also celebrated by a limestone‑bronze monument near the beach, reminding visitors of the daring early flights that took off from this quiet strand.
The adjacent Portmarnock Golf Club, founded in the 19th century, has hosted the Irish Open twenty‑nine times and is regularly cited as one of the world’s finest links courses. Its proximity adds a touch of elite sport to the otherwise relaxed beach atmosphere.
What to See & Do
Stroll or run the sand
The beach’s flat, well‑maintained promenade makes it ideal for long walks, jogs, roller‑blading or cycling. The coastal walk to Malahide is a favourite: a 9 km, two‑hour trek that follows the shoreline, passes the historic Martello Tower, and offers panoramic snapshots of the Howth Peninsula and the islands beyond.
Water sports
Kitesurfers and windsurfers take advantage of the steady Atlantic breezes, while swimmers can enjoy a dip in the Irish Sea during the summer months when lifeguards are on duty. The north side of the beach, close to the public toilets, is the designated swimming zone; lifeguard notices are posted on a noticeboard during the season.
Sculpture and heritage
Don’t miss the Eccentric Orbit sculpture and the aviation monument near the dunes. Both provide excellent photo opportunities and a tangible link to the beach’s historic past.
Coffee, ice‑cream and local eateries
A quick caffeine fix is available from the Fireman Sands coffee truck perched at the top of the beach, and the Beach Brew kiosk a short walk down the Coast Road. After a walk, head to nearby Malahide for a wider selection of restaurants – from Thai to classic Irish pub fare – or enjoy seaside pizza at Lali’s Italian and a relaxed lunch at McHugh’s Wine & Dine back in Portmarnock.
Family‑friendly activities
The wide, flat sand is perfect for building sandcastles, flying kites, or simply picnicking with a view of the sea. Dogs are welcome on a lead, and the gentle gradient of the promenade makes it suitable for prams and pushchairs.
Practical Information
Portmarnock Beach is free to visit and open every day. Lifeguards are present from late May to early September; outside this period swimmers should check the latest water‑safety notices on the beaches.ie site.
| Service | Details |
|---|---|
| Opening hours | Open daily – beach is accessible at all times |
| Admission | Free of charge |
| Public toilets | Located at the bottom of the steps on the north side of the beach |
| Parking | • Strand Road car park (pay‑and‑display) – closest to the sand • Free car park near Portmarnock Golf Club (5‑minute walk) • Dart station car park (€3.50‑€4.50 per day) |
| Public transport | • DART – Portmarnock station (≈25 min from Dublin Connolly) • Bus 42 – runs from Talbot Street, Dublin to Sand’s Hotel, Portmarnock |
| Accessibility | The promenade is flat and suitable for wheelchairs and prams, though some dune areas are uneven. |
| Blue Flag | Awarded 2022 – indicates high water quality and safety standards |
Getting there
The simplest route by car is the R107 from Dublin, which leads straight to Strand Road. For those preferring public transport, the DART provides a quick, scenic ride north; alight at Portmarnock and the beach is a short walk away. Bus 42 offers a direct link from the city centre, stopping near the main car park.
Parking details
If you choose the Strand Road car park, expect a small fee during peak summer weekends. The free car park beside the golf club is a convenient alternative, though it fills quickly on sunny days. For longer stays, the Dart station car park offers secure, monitored spaces at a modest daily rate.
Safety notes
Lifeguard coverage is seasonal; always look for the posted lifeguard notice before entering the water. The beach can experience strong Atlantic currents, so swim only in the designated area and heed any red‑flag warnings.
Nearby attractions
- Portmarnock Golf Club – world‑class links course with stunning sea views.
- Malahide Castle – 12th‑century fortress with beautiful demesne gardens.
- Howth Peninsula – reachable by a short DART ride, offering cliff walks and fresh seafood.
- Ireland’s Eye & Lambay Island – visible from the beach, perfect for photography.
Portmarnock Beach blends natural beauty, historic intrigue and a host of activities, making it a must‑see destination for anyone exploring the Dublin coastline.