Exploring Dublin's Coast
We're lucky to live in a city that's situated right by the sea.
Dublin's unique character and history stretches all along our coastline and into our picturesque seaside towns.
From outdoor adventures and breathtaking views to amazing food and historical landmarks, there's so much on offer.
To help you discover Dublin's vibrant coast, we've teamed up with VisitDublin.com to show you some of its best bits.
Dublin Bay Cruise
A unique way to see the best of Dublin's coast is on a Dublin Bay Cruise.
Whether you head North or South, or decide to do the full coast, you'll see parts of the city you wouldn't usually on other forms of transport.
Take in spectacular views of Howth, Dun Laoghaire, Dalkey Island and Ireland's Eye on your voyage, and be sure to keep an eye out for seals and dolphins!
Malahide Castle & Gardens
We may not get to any gigs at Malahide Castle this year, but the grounds are definitely still worth a visit.
The castle was once home to the Talbot family and on the tour you can learn all about their history.
Then explore the 260 acres of lush parkland surrounding the property which includes botanic gardens, a butterfly house, and a magical fairy trail.
The People's Park Market
The People's Park in Dun Laoghaire is always buzzing on a Sunday.
With vendors set up from 10am to 5:30pm you can browse their diverse food, art, and crafts offerings.
From baked goods to ethnic food, plus artisan and seasonal produce, it's the perfect place to grab a bite to eat on a lazy Sunday.
If you fancy something for dessert head to Teddy's Ice Cream just around the corner for one of their famous 99's.
Howth Cliff Walk
This two hour loop starts right at Howth Dart station and takes you from the village all around the Nose of Howth.
Your ascent will bring you on to the stunning clifftops, where you can take in views of Lambay Island, Ireland's Eye and most of Dublin Bay.
On your return to the village reward yourself with Beshoff Bros fish and chips or a pizza in The Dog House's dog friendly tea rooms!
Kayak around Dalkey Island
Pick up a Kayak from Kayaking.ie in Dalkey and take in the views of Dublin's South coast from the sea.
On your trip around Dalkey Island you'll be able to see the Dublin Mountains and maybe even some seals along the way.
We recommend taking their sunset tour to catch the amazing light across the city.
Ye Olde Hurdy-Gurdy Museum of Vintage Radio
Ye Olde Hurdy-Gurdy Museum in Howth is a gadget lovers paradise.
Based in a Martello Tower, the building itself is steeped with radio history and now houses a vast collect of all things radio and communications.
You can check out early Morse equipment, gramophones, music boxes, telegrams, early TVs, and a number of other vintage gadgets.
Plus, the views from the tower are pretty impressive!
360 view from @HurdyGurdyRadio over #howth #irelandseye and the #irishsea . #howthcliffwalk #dublin #Ireland #martellotower #howthcliffs #hiddenhowth @howthismagic @VisitDublin @LoveFingalDub pic.twitter.com/Wn68T8tqJC
— Hidden Howth Experiences (@Hidden_Howth) April 30, 2020
St. Anne's Park & Urban Farm
St. Anne's Park is a seaside city park that has plenty to do for all the family.
Home to dense woodlands, water features, rose gardens and an urban farm, you can pass hours here.
Pay a visit to the pigs, chickens, donkeys and other animals in the farm.
Then enjoy lunch at Olive's Room at The Red Stables, which specialises in local whole foods and fresh baked treats.
Howth Market
Another spot that's great to go browsing over the weekend.
Howth Market had a major revamp in 2013 and has been hugely popular spot along the seafront since then.
Vendors offer a vast array of international food, organic produce, baked goods, jewellery, antiques, and much more.
The National Maritime Museum
Housed in Dun Laoghaire's Mariners Church, the building of The National Maritime Museum is an artefact in itself.
Over 180-years-old, it is one of the few remaining, custom built places of worship for seafarers worldwide.
Here you'll learn about martime history and hear stories of discovery, heroism, war and disasters at sea.
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Sea Swim
Sea swimming has become a hugely popular activity in Dublin over the last few months and we can see why!
With so many beautiful spots along our coast it's hard to resist jumping in for a refreshing dip.
Vico Baths and The Forty Foot are well known swimming points, but you can also check out Sandycove, Seapoint, Portmarnock Beach, Skerries Beach, and Bull Island.
There's so much to see, do, and explore along Dublin's beautiful coast.
For more ideas of how you can spend a fun day in the city check out VisitDublin.com.
We've also recommended great things to see and do in Dublin's Docklands and The Liberties, Smithfield, and Stoneybatter.
