Clontarf Road

Clontarf Road offers families a beautiful sandy beach along Dublin Bay with calm, supervised swimming areas perfect for young paddlers. The scenic coastal promenade is ideal for bike rides and strolls, with multiple playgrounds dotted along the route and stunning views across to Howth Head.

• ✓Safe, shallow swimming areas perfect for young children learning to swim
• ✓Long sandy beach ideal for sandcastle building and beach games
• ✓Scenic 5km coastal promenade perfect for family walks and bike rides
• ✓Multiple playgrounds along the route including Vernon Avenue playground
• ✓Bull Island wooden walkway with opportunities to spot seals and seabirds

1. 1.Arrive early on sunny weekends to secure parking along the seafront, as spaces fill up quickly during summer months.
2. 2.Bring buckets and spades for sandcastle building, plus a windbreak as the coastal breeze can be strong even on warm days.
3. 3.The wooden Bull Wall walkway extends into Dublin Bay and is perfect for adventurous families, offering amazing views and a chance to spot seals.
4. 4.Public toilets and cafes are available at St. Anne's Park (5 minute walk inland), which also features excellent playgrounds if kids tire of the beach.
5. 5.Check tide times before visiting, as the beach area expands significantly at low tide, giving kids more space to explore rock pools.

Visit during weekday mornings in summer (June to August) for the warmest weather and smaller crowds. Low tide is ideal for beach exploration and rock pooling. Spring and autumn offer pleasant walking conditions with fewer visitors.

The beach and promenade are free to access with on-street parking available (metered during peak times). Limited food options directly on the beach, so pack snacks or plan to visit nearby cafes in Clontarf village, a 10 minute walk away.

Best enjoyed May through September when weather is warmest for swimming and beach activities. Winter months can be windy but the promenade walk remains popular year-round for fresh air and exercise. Swimming is possible year-round but water is cold outside summer months.

Head to Clontarf village (10 minute walk) for family-friendly options like The Sheds restaurant with kids menus, or grab fish and chips from Beshoff Bros. The Dollymount House pub offers casual dining with children's portions and outdoor seating.