Vitamin Sea Overload at Portmarnock Beach
While there are many beaches in Dublin that might catch your eye, one that truly made me love going to the beach is Portmarnock Beach. There’s nothing like a really long beach that’s full of white sand to make a dip in the ocean that much more enjoyable.
Located in the small town of Portmarnock, it’s one of Dublin’s most expensive beaches and is a beloved beach among locals and tourists. While it might be outside the city centre, many still flock to it for the amazing views and the serene surroundings.
If you’re looking to have a beach day when visiting Dublin, then we’d highly recommend that you give Portmarnock Beach a try! We’ll even share all the good places to eat and stay when heading to one of Dublin’s most popular beaches.
What is Portmarnock Beach Known for?
Portmarnock Beach, also known as Velvet Strand, is an 8 km wide stretch of white sand beach located in the northern section of County Dublin. It offers a clear view of the extensive Dublin Mountains.
Best Time to Go to Portmarnock Beach
The best time to visit Portmarnock Beach is in the early morning. If you want a solitary dip in the ocean, we’d advise heading there on a weekday to stave off the crowds. If you’re planning to visit on a weekend, we suggest securing a great spot as early as possible.
Things to Know About Portmarnock Beach
Address: Portmarnock Beach is located at Strand Rd, Carrickhill, Portmarnock, Co. Dublin, Ireland. It’s close to other well-known beaches, such as Malahide Beach, Corballis Beach, Burrow Beach, and Dollymount Strand.
Operating Hours: Portmarnock Beach is open 24 hours a day. However, visiting hours at night can be challenging due to the darkness.
Parking: There is parking available at Portmarnock Beach. You can either park at the North Car Park, which is located near the town of Portmarnock, or you can park at the South Car Park, which is near Golf Links Road.
Contact Information: Fingal County Council is responsible for the management of Portmarnock Beach. To contact them, you can use their mobile number at (01) 890 5000 or their email address at [email protected].
Pets: While pets are typically allowed at Portmarnock Beach, there are instances, especially during peak bathing season, when they aren’t allowed between 11:00 AM and 7:00 PM. Assistance dogs are exempt from this rule.
Accessibility at Portmarnock Beach
Beach Wheelchairs: Yes, wheelchairs specifically designed for beach use are available at the Lifeguard Hut. These must be booked in advance through their mobile contact at 0868222646.
How to Get to Portmarnock Beach
Car: If heading to the north car park, you’ll have to head to the end of Strand Road until you find the north car park. When heading to the south car park, near the beginning of Strand Road, you’ll have to turn right onto Golf Links Road, which will lead you there.
Dublin Bus: There are several Dublin Bus routes that travel to Portmarnock Beach. Here are the select few that do, and the specific bus stops associated with them.
| Dublin Bus Route | Bus Stop | Operating Hours |
| Route 32X | Portmarnock Hotel Stop | Monday to Friday: 7:15 AM – 4:45 PM |
| Route 42D | Portmarnock Hotel Stop | Monday to Friday: 7:30 AM – 5:10 PM |
| Route 142 | Wendell Avenue Stop | Monday to Friday: 7:10 AM – 5:35 PM |
| Route H2 | Wendell Avenue Stop | Monday to Friday: 5:15 AM – 11:15 PM Saturday: 6:30 AM – 12:15 AM Sunday: 7:15 AM – 12:15 AM |
Shuttle Bus: Additionally, shuttle buses depart for Portmarnock Beach. Here are the specific routes that do, and the bus stop near Portmarnock Beach, where you should head off on.
| Shuttle Bus Route | Bus Stop | Operating Hours |
| Route 102 | Portmarnock Hotel Stop | Monday to Friday: 5:50 AM – 11:40 PM Saturday: 5:45 AM – 11:45 PM Sunday: 8:40 AM – 11:40 PM |
DART Train System: The closest DART station to Portmarnock Beach is Portmarnock Station. We’d suggest riding the Route 102 Shuttle Bus from the station to Portmarnock Beach, as the station is still a ways away from the beach.
Taxi: When heading from Dublin City Centre, if you don’t want to worry about public transport, you can easily get a taxi to Portmarnock Beach. However, we’d advise against it as it will be quite expensive, especially due to the distance.
Important Things to Note about Portmarnock Beach
Fenced-Off Sand Dunes: Although most of the beach is accessible to the public, certain sections are fenced off for various reasons. Chief among these reasons is to preserve the sensitive sand dunes that are under protection.
Lifeguards: Lifeguards aren’t always available at Portmarnock Beach. They are typically only on the beach during Bathing Season, which is typically from 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM on weekends in June and every day from July to August.
Water Quality: Although Portmarnock Beach is subject to the Bathing Water Quality Regulations 2008, it is regularly tested for its water quality. To ensure that the water meets your standards for your visit, please check here for regular updates.
Things to Do Near Portmarnock Beach
There are several cultural sites, as well as various fun activities, near Portmarnock Beach. While staying at the beach all day might sound like a fun experience, there are all sorts of other activities available that might pique your interest.
Guard the coast at Carrickhill Martello Tower
Media Credit: National Built Heritage Service Instagram
Website: https://www.buildingsofireland.ie
Address: Carrickhill, Portmarnock, Co. Dublin, Ireland
Contact Details: +353 (0)1 888 20 00
Price Range: Free
Operating Hours: Open 24 Hours
If you’ve ever heard of the famous Martello Towers of Dublin, then you’re in luck, as there’s one located near Portmarnock Beach. The inside of the tower is private property, but you can still visit the outside and take some great photos during your visit.
It’s a popular destination for those who visit Velvet Strand, as it’s a short walk from the beach to the Martello Tower. It also offers a wonderful view of the ocean and the surrounding ocean crags that flank the cliff where the Martello Tower is situated.
Score an ace at Portmarnock Golf Club
Media Credit: Portmarnock Golf Club Instagram
Website: https://www.portmarnockgolfclub.ie
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/portmarnockgolfclub
Address: Golf Links Rd, Portmarnock, Co. Dublin, D13 KD96, Ireland
Contact Details: +353 1 846 2968
Price Range: €475
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday: 8:00 AM to 6:30 PM
Portmarnock has some of the largest golf courses in Dublin, and it’s perfectly situated just behind the expanse of Portmarnock Beach. When heading here, we’d suggest coming from the southern car park as it’s much closer to the golf club.
While it might sound expensive, you’ll be surprised to find that a golfing experience at Portmarnock Golf Club will also include a hearty lunch before or after your game!
Feast like kings at Malahide Castle and Gardens
Media Credit: Malahide Castle and Gardens Instagram
Website: https://malahidecastleandgardens.ie
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MalahideCastleAndGardens
Address: Back Rd, Malahide Demesne, Malahide, Co. Dublin, Ireland
Contact Details: +353 1 866 6780
Price Range: €9 – €17
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday: 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM
Portmarnock is quite close to Malahide Castle and Gardens. This wonderful castle was once home to the Talbot family and still houses many of the furnishings they used.
There is also an expansive garden that holds many secrets. In there, you’ll find a Fairy Trail full of secrets and magic that is perfect for your little ones. Aside from that, there’s also a lovely Butterfly House, brimming with a wide variety of butterflies.
Connect with God at St. Anne’s Catholic Church
Media Credit: Marian Pilgrimages Instagram
Website: https://www.portmarnockparish.ie
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stannesportmarnock
Address: Strand Rd, Burrow, Portmarnock, Co. Dublin, Ireland
Contact Details: +353 1 846 1561
Price Range: Free
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday: 10:00 AM to 6:30 PM
Another historic site near Portmarnock Beach is St. Anne’s Church. While the church isn’t anything special, it is a lovely parish that is frequented by the local Catholics. Aside from the typical mass, they also religiously practice the sacraments on a daily basis.
If you’re a catholic, this is a perfect spot to head to before or after a day at the beach. This will also allow you to connect with locals on a more spiritual level than simply meeting them at the beach.
Get your glam on at Friendly Nails
Media Credit: Friendly Nails Instagram
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NailsPortmarnock
Address: Unit 2, Portmarnock Shopping Arcade, Strand Rd, Portmarnock, Co. Dublin, D13 RH59, Ireland
Contact Details: +353 85 878 8888
Price Range: €15
Operating Hours:
- Monday: 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Tuesday to Wednesday, Saturday: 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM
- Thursday to Friday: 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM
- Sunday: 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM
Whether you just chipped a nail while swimming or if you’re looking to bling up your nails after a nice tanning session, Friendly Nails is a beloved nail salon business in the local village that offers some amazing choices when it comes to your nails.
They’re far cheaper than ones you can find in Dublin City Centre. And who doesn’t love hearing a bit of local gossip as you’re pampered by their talented nail technicians?
Where to Eat around Portmarnock Beach
I’m sure you’ll find yourself feeling a bit peckish after a day at the beach. You’re in luck, as there are quite a few great restaurants surrounding Portmarnock Beach that you might enjoy! Here are some that we’d highly recommend.
Brezzi’s Wood Fired Pizza
Media Credit: Brezzi’s Wood Fired Pizza Instagram
Website: https://www.brezziswoodfiredpizza.ie
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/brezziswoodfiredpizza
Address: Portmarnock Town Centre, Strand Rd, Burrow, Portmarnock, Co. Dublin, Ireland
Contact Details: +353 1 803 8100
Price Range: €10 – €20
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Friday: 4:00 PM – 10:30 PM
- Saturday to Sunday: 4:00 PM – 10:00 PM
There’s nothing finer after a day at the beach than a wood-fired pizza. Brezzi’s serves a variety of delectable pizzas, paired with garlic bread and a soft drink of your choice.
Their pizzas begin with dough made from 00-grade Caputo Italian flour, which they ferment for several days. That slow fermentation lets the flavours develop gradually, so each bite tastes richer.
Honey Honey Cafe
Media Credit: Honey Honey Cafe Instagram
Website: https://www.honeyhoneycafe.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/honeyhoneycafe
Address: Strand Rd, Burrow, Portmarnock, Co. Dublin, Ireland
Contact Details: [email protected]
Price Range: €10 – €20
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Friday: 7:30 AM – 4:00 PM
- Saturday to Sunday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Honey Honey Cafe might be the sweetest one on the block. They’re a small, yet brightly yellow-tinted cafe that specializes in unique drinks! Something that truly caught our eye here is their Lemon Iced Matcha Latte, which sounds weird but is so refreshing and tart!
DoChefOliveira
Media Credit: DoChefOliveira Instagram
Website: https://www.dochefoliveira.ie
Address: The Stables Office Park, 1 Strand Rd, Burrow, Portmarnock, Co. Dublin, D13 EH70, Ireland
Contact Details: +353 83 389 8552
Price Range: €10 – €20
Operating Hours: Tuesday to Sunday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
If you’re looking for reliability, then we’d suggest visiting DoChefOliveira. They have some lovely pastries, and our favourite has to be their fluffy and creamy sweet bread. The sweet bread pairs perfectly with a nice flat white, making it the ideal breakfast.
But what do we love? It’s the 20% off discount on your first order. Other than that, we love companies that are really about sustainability and supporting the community, and that’s DoChefOliveira.
Puck Burger
Media Credit: Puck Burger Instagram
Website: https://www.puckburger.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/puckburger1
Address: Portmarnock Sports and Leisure Centre, Blackwood Lane, Portmarnock, Co. Dublin, D13 X662, Ireland
Contact Details: +353 87 330 6199
Price Range: €10 – €20
Operating Hours:
- Wednesday to Thursday: 4:30 PM – 9:00 PM
- Friday: 4:30 PM – 9:30 PM
- Saturday: 10:00 AM – 9:30 PM
- Sunday: 10:00 AM – 8:30 PM
Puck Burger serves some of the juiciest burgers this side of Dublin, and we swear that they’re amazing. They offer gluten-free options, and what stood out to us the most was the Smokey Puck, as the smoked cheese and bacon pair perfectly with the brioche bun.
We also love the chicken puck here. It has oozing jerk chicken thigh, cheddar, lettuce, and more. Plus, what’s great is that you can get one for as low as: €9.50
Where to Stay around Portmarnock Beach
Whether you’re looking to stay at Dublin City Centre or at Portmarnock village, we’ve found accommodation that will suit your needs. Here are some of the best hotels and hostels when you’re planning on heading to Portmarnock Beach.
Portmarnock Resort
Media Credit: Portmarnock Resort Instagram
Website: https://www.portmarnock.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/portmarnock.resort
Address: Strand Rd, Burrow, Portmarnock, Co. Dublin, Ireland
Contact Details: +353 1 846 0611
Price Range: Starts at €110
Portmarnock Resort is situated near the entrance to Portmarnock Beach, offering a majestic view of the beach. The thing that sold us on staying here was the never-ending activities they provide for guests, such as sand castle making and surfing classes.
They have classic rooms, as well as fancier options like the junior suites. Plus, that’s only about €110 a night.
White Sands Hotel
Media Credit: White Sands Hotel Instagram
Website: https://www.whitesandshotel.ie
Address: Coast Rd, Carrickhill, Portmarnock, Co. Dublin, Ireland
Contact Details: +353 1 866 6000
Price Range: Starts at €239
White Sands Hotel offers a typical hotel experience located near the beach. It’s a family-run, 3-star hotel with 58 ensuite rooms. Some of these rooms have literal views of Portmarnock Beach.
You can also visit their The Oasis Bar & Grill. This is their chill Irish-style pub with a seriously relaxing atmosphere. They also have the Lambay Suite, a conference room that accommodates approximately 20 people.
The Spencer Hotel
Media Credit: The Spencer Hotel Instagram
Website: https://www.thespencerhotel.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheSpencerHotelDublin
Address: Excise Walk, International Financial Services Centre, Dublin 1, D01 X4C9, Ireland
Contact Details: +353 1 433 8800
Price Range: Starts at €189
The Spencer Hotel is situated near the banks of the River Liffey and is an excellent place to stay when exploring Dublin. They have an amazing view of Dublin City’s skyline, and they’re close to most of the available public transport in Dublin City.
The rooms are filled with Nespresso machines and 24-hour service. Parking? Yup, they’ve got self-parking nearby for about €25/day, but sometimes your room package includes it.
Arlington Hotel
Media Credit: Arlington Hotel Instagram
Website: https://www.arlington.ie
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheArlingtonHotelOConnellBridge
Address: 23-25 Bachelors Walk, O’Connell Bridge, North City, Dublin 1, Ireland
Contact Details: +353 1 804 9100
Price Range: Starts at €149
The Arlington Hotel is like right in the middle of Dublin, literally beside the River Liffey and just a few steps from O’Connell Street. That means you can walk to all the big tourist spots like Template Bar and Trinity College.
The most impressive aspect is that the hotel actually hosts its own shows. They’ve got the Celtic Nights. It’s like an Irish music and dance while you eat dinner.
Tips When Visiting Portmarnock Beach
Before you go rushing to Portmarnock Beach, we’ve got a few tips that might pique your interest. While we can’t guarantee that these will be game-changing, we can assure you that you’ll have a far more comfortable visit if you hear us out.
Converse with the Locals
Heading to the beach is the perfect way to make new friends if you’re new to Dublin City. Many from around Dublin and the neighbouring counties frequent the beach, especially during Bathing Season!
Wear Sunscreen
Yes, wearing sunscreen, even on a cloudy day at the beach, is highly recommended. We’d also suggest bringing a huge hat or an umbrella, especially if it’s quite sunny, as nobody likes to get sunburnt.
Visit During Bathing Season
While you might enjoy the solitude of visiting when it isn’t Bathing Season, we’d suggest heading there during it instead. This is because you’ll be far safer, as there are lifeguards and other people to make sure you don’t encounter anything nasty.
Use Public Transport
We cannot emphasise enough how integral public transport is to visiting this beach. Locals from within and outside Dublin utilise public transport, such as the buses and DART train system, to their full advantage. Do what the locals do and ride a train!