Travel Ireland begins beautifully along Dublin Bay, where fishing harbours, sea cliffs, sandy beaches and historic estates unfold within easy reach of the capital. The Dublin Coastal Trail links 16 destinations from Balbriggan in north County Dublin to Killiney in the south, making it one of the most rewarding car-free experiences for Ireland travel.
Accessible by DART, Irish Rail and selected cycling routes, the trail is ideal for a day trip, an Ireland weekend getaway or a longer Ireland travel itinerary. You can combine coastal walks with seafood, castles, wildlife, museums and outdoor activities, moving between towns at your own pace.
Travel Ireland along Dublin’s coastal towns
Balbriggan and Skerries
Begin in Balbriggan, reached by Irish Rail from Dublin city centre. Its textile heritage remains visible at the Celtic Tweed Shop, while nearby Ardgillan Castle and Gardens offers formal gardens, parkland and coastal views. Balbriggan Beach, Hampton Cove and the town’s Martello Tower are easy additions to a relaxed morning walk.
Continue south to Skerries, a lively seaside town known for its harbour, beaches and watersports. A paddleboarding session, the 5km St Patrick’s Way and Art Trail, and a visit to Skerries Mills all make excellent additions to an Ireland holiday itinerary. Leave time for harbour dining, local produce and an ice cream by the pier.
Donabate and Malahide
Donabate and Portrane are especially appealing for visitors searching for Ireland hidden gems and scenic coastal walks. The Donabate-Portrane Cliff Walk offers views of Portrane Beach, Martello Towers and Lambay Island. Newbridge House and Farm adds Georgian architecture, woodland walks, a working farm and family-friendly attractions.
In Malahide, explore the medieval Malahide Castle and its gardens, including the Butterfly House. The marina is a good base for restaurants, while the estuary offers opportunities for stand-up paddleboarding. Families may also enjoy the Casino Model Railway Museum, and visitors seeking unusual Ireland nature spots can arrange a boat trip towards Lambay Island, where seals and other wildlife may be seen.
Howth
Howth is one of the most popular stops on the Dublin Coastal Trail and a highlight of Dublin travel. The 7.8km Howth Cliff Path Loop begins near the pier and passes dramatic sea cliffs, Ireland’s Eye and views towards Baily Lighthouse. Wear sturdy footwear, check the forecast and allow extra time for photographs.
Howth also combines Ireland adventure travel with memorable food. Guided hikes, foraging experiences, boat tours and seafood restaurants create a full day of things to do in Ireland without leaving the city region. King Sitric, Wrights Findlater and Beshoffs are among the established names visitors may consider, while a local food tour offers a deeper introduction to the peninsula.
Raheny, North Bull Island and Clontarf
North Bull Island is a superb choice for wildlife lovers and photographers. Its dunes, shoreline and sea pool sit within Dublin Bay’s UNESCO Biosphere area, recognised for its bird and marine habitats. Nearby St Anne’s Park provides gardens and walking paths, while the Red Stables Food Market and casual cafés make it easy to plan a leisurely stop.
Clontarf brings together history, green space and waterfront views. Follow the approximately 4.5km Dublin Port Tolka Estuary Greenway through an important bird and marine habitat, then continue along the promenade. For evening plans, the Viking Theatre, traditional pubs and restaurants provide a taste of Dublin nightlife and local culture.
Dublin Port and Grand Canal Dock
Dublin Port offers a different perspective on Ireland tourism, showing how the capital’s working waterfront has evolved. Restored buildings, exhibitions and creative spaces explore the port’s industrial past and cultural role. From here, the greenway leads towards Clontarf and makes a practical link between urban sightseeing and coastal walking.
Grand Canal Dock is another strong stop for Dublin city breaks. Once a commercial canal terminus, it is now a lively quarter of modern architecture, restaurants, cafés, cultural venues and waterfront walks. It works well as a starting or finishing point for visitors combining Dublin sightseeing with an Ireland staycation.
Further south, the route continues through coastal neighbourhoods and harbour towns towards Dún Laoghaire, Sandymount, Blackrock, Dalkey and Killiney. Highlights include the pier at Dún Laoghaire, sea swimming, village cafés, Dalkey’s historic character and the panoramic views from Killiney Hill. These southern stops are particularly well suited to Ireland couple activities, solo travel Ireland and relaxed family outings.
Practical Ireland travel tips for the coastal trail
- Use public transport: Most of the route is served by DART, while Balbriggan is reached by Irish Rail. Check current timetables before setting out.
- Plan around the weather: Coastal conditions can change quickly. Bring waterproof layers, comfortable shoes and sun protection.
- Allow more time than expected: Walks, cafés, markets and viewpoints make it tempting to linger at every stop.
- Travel responsibly: Stay on marked paths, respect wildlife and leave beaches, dunes and nature reserves undisturbed.
- Consider cycling: Bike hire and shared bikes are available in parts of the route, but check availability, route conditions and return locations.
Read more: Plan more Ireland weekend getaway ideas and travel inspiration, including practical suggestions for exploring the capital and surrounding coastline.
Frequently asked questions
How long is the Dublin Coastal Trail?
The trail connects 16 coastal destinations rather than following one single walking distance. You can experience one town in a few hours or build a multi-stop day using public transport.
Can you explore the Dublin Coastal Trail without a car?
Yes. DART and Irish Rail make many stops accessible from Dublin city centre. Walking distances between attractions vary, so check transport times and local maps before travelling.
What are the best stops for coastal walks?
Howth, Donabate and Portrane, North Bull Island, Clontarf and Killiney are excellent choices for sea views, wildlife and varied walking routes.
Explore more: Find Ireland travel tips, scenic drives and local day-trip ideas, then browse luxury Ireland stays and memorable coastal escapes for a more indulgent trip.
The Dublin Coastal Trail is a reminder that some of the best travel Ireland experiences are close to the city. Go soon for quieter paths outside peak weekends, book popular activities ahead and use the rail network to create your own flexible route through Dublin Bay.
