Killiney Beach Dublin
A stunning Dublin coastal gem offering expansive sands, invigorating sea swims, and breathtaking mountain vistas.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peaceful beach, good light
Killiney Beach Dublin
Best Time
Peaceful beach, good light

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning Dublin coastal gem offering expansive sands, invigorating sea swims, and breathtaking mountain vistas.
"A hidden gem only 20 minutes from Dublin, perfect for a refreshing escape."
🚗 Parking Pains
Parking is notoriously difficult, especially on sunny days. Arrive very early or consider public transport .
🚆 DART is Your Friend
The DART train is a convenient and scenic way to reach Killiney Beach, avoiding parking woes .
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Expansive Sandy Shores
Main beach area
Miles of golden sand perfect for sunbathing, building sandcastles, and long, refreshing walks.

Invigorating Sea Swims
Water's edge
Brave the chilly waters for a revitalizing dip with stunning coastal views. A true local pastime!

Panoramic Mountain Vistas
Along the coastline
Gaze out at the picturesque landscape, with distant mountains providing a dramatic backdrop.
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds: Timing is Everything
Navigating to Your Coastal Escape
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Pains
Parking is notoriously difficult, especially on sunny days. Arrive very early or consider public transport.
🚆 DART is Your Friend
The DART train is a convenient and scenic way to reach Killiney Beach, avoiding parking woes.
Killiney Beach a great spot for swimming.
Trying to get from Dun Laoghaire to Killiney Beach.
🌊 Embrace the Chill
The water is bracing! If you're planning a swim, be prepared for a refreshing experience.
🚶♀️ Scenic Strolls
Enjoy leisurely walks along the shore, taking in the beautiful coastal scenery.
A weekend in Ireland: what can I squeeze in (realistically)?
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Pains
Parking is notoriously difficult, especially on sunny days. Arrive very early or consider public transport.
🚆 DART is Your Friend
The DART train is a convenient and scenic way to reach Killiney Beach, avoiding parking woes.
🌊 Embrace the Chill
The water is bracing! If you're planning a swim, be prepared for a refreshing experience.
🚶♀️ Scenic Strolls
Enjoy leisurely walks along the shore, taking in the beautiful coastal scenery.
🚲 Cycle for Freedom
Cycling is a great option, offering flexibility and avoiding traffic jams.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Killiney Beach is a beautiful and expansive stretch of sand, highly praised for its scenic views and refreshing swimming opportunities. Visitors love the natural beauty and the escape it offers from the city. However, the significant challenge of parking and occasional issues with public transport can detract from the experience for some.
"Lovely area for a walk along the water’s edge, or a swim. Easy to reach from the city via Dart."
Ann Murray
"Beautiful strand, always full of life and people walking with dogs. Easy access to swim in the sea. Pre pay parking is a minute away which is very handy. One thing to note, the strand walk is lined with pebbles so might not be ideal for anyone with mobility issues. Scenic views and great atmosphere."
Sinéad
"Its always amazing whenever we go there. You just need favorable weather and the views would get even more beautiful. Its worth walking by the beach every day. The beautiful scenery, a fine selection of nearby eateries makes it a worth while trip. To mention the sunday farmers market is a plus.. they offer amazing foods from a round the world."
Abeer Mustafa
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The easiest way is to take the DART train south from Dublin city center towards Greystones and alight at Killiney station. From there, it's a short walk to the beach. Driving is an option, but parking is extremely limited and can be frustrating.
While the DART is generally reliable, there can be occasional service disruptions.
Buses can also be affected by traffic. For the most consistent experience, the DART is recommended, especially if you avoid peak times.The DART journey from Dublin city center (e.g., Connolly or Tara Street stations) to Killiney station typically takes around 30-40 minutes.
Yes, cycling is a viable option and can be a pleasant way to travel, especially if you're coming from nearby areas. It also offers more flexibility than relying on public transport or dealing with parking.
Parking is very limited and often a source of frustration for visitors and locals alike. Street parking can be difficult to find, and illegal parking is a common issue.
It's best to have a backup plan or avoid driving if possible.🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Killiney Beach is a public beach and there is no entrance fee to access it.
Killiney Beach is accessible at all times. However, facilities like public restrooms may have specific operating hours.
No, tickets are not required as it's a public beach. You can visit anytime.
Generally, there are no specific restrictions, but always be mindful of local bylaws regarding littering and noise. During busy periods, access might be managed to ensure safety.
Facilities can vary, but typically include public restrooms and sometimes small kiosks. It's advisable to check local council websites for the most up-to-date information on available amenities.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire coastline offers stunning views. Look for shots capturing the sweep of the beach, the distant mountains, and the waves crashing. The DART line running along the coast also provides unique photographic opportunities.
Golden hour, both at sunrise and sunset, offers beautiful lighting for photography. Midday can be harsh, but still offers good opportunities for capturing the vibrant blues of the sea and sky.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's essential to check with local authorities or the Irish Aviation Authority (IAA) for current rules and restrictions before flying a drone in the area.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive beach and coastal scenery. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating details of the distant mountains or boats. Don't forget a polarizing filter to enhance the blues of the sky and sea.
The distinctive Martello Tower visible from the beach is a popular subject. The DART viaduct also offers a striking architectural element against the natural landscape.
🎫 🏊♀️ Swimming & Activities
Swimming at Killiney Beach is popular among locals, but the water can be cold and currents can be strong. Always swim with caution, be aware of your limits, and if possible, swim with others.
Besides swimming, Killiney Beach is ideal for long walks, sunbathing, fishing, and simply enjoying the coastal scenery. It's also a great spot for a picnic on a nice day.
Lifeguard services are typically seasonal and may not be present year-round. It's advisable to check with the local council for information on lifeguard availability during your visit.
Yes, fishing is a common activity at Killiney Beach. You'll often see locals casting lines from the shore.
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, water, snacks, and comfortable walking shoes. If you plan to swim, a wetsuit might be advisable for some.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Walkers
📸 Photographers & Scenery Lovers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Charm of the DART Line
Many travelers find the DART to be a far superior option to driving, especially given the notorious parking challenges at Killiney. The train provides a direct and often less stressful connection, allowing you to relax and enjoy the unfolding scenery. Stations like Killiney are conveniently located within walking distance of the beach, making it an accessible destination for those without a car. The DART also connects to other popular coastal spots like Howth and Dalkey, offering opportunities for multi-stop day trips.
When planning your trip, it's always a good idea to check the DART schedule and any potential service updates, as occasional disruptions can occur. However, for the most part, the DART offers a reliable and enjoyable way to experience the beauty of Dublin's coastline and reach hidden gems like Killiney Beach.
Navigating Parking Nightmares
Many visitors report spending considerable time circling for parking or having to park a significant distance away from the beach. This can detract from the overall experience, especially if you're carrying beach gear or have young children. The advice from those who live in the area is often to avoid driving altogether if possible, or to arrive extremely early in the morning to have any chance of securing a space.
Given these parking difficulties, the DART train emerges as the most recommended alternative. It not only bypasses the parking stress but also offers a more scenic and relaxed approach to reaching Killiney Beach. If driving is your only option, have a backup plan and be prepared for potential delays and a longer walk.
The Allure of a Cold Water Dip
While the allure of a swim is strong, it's crucial to approach sea swimming with respect and caution. The water temperature can be quite low, and currents can sometimes be strong. It's always advisable to swim within your limits, be aware of the conditions, and if possible, swim with a buddy or in areas where lifeguards are present during the season. Checking local tide times and weather forecasts before you go is also a wise precaution.
For those not quite ready for a full immersion, simply walking along the shoreline and feeling the cool water lap at your feet can be a delightful experience. The act of being by the sea, with its rhythmic waves and expansive views, offers a sense of calm and well-being, regardless of whether you take a dip.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit