When friends ask me for a truly beautiful, accessible coastal escape from Dublin, I am always recommending Portmarnock Co. Dublin. The name in Irish, Port Mearnóg, translates as “Little Port of Marnock,” named after a 6th-century hermit saint-and that mix of ancient history and quiet coastal life is still palpable today.
Portmarnock combines world-class prestige with laid-back beach vibes. It’s a straightforward 20-minute DART journey from the city, and once you’re here, you understand the draw-you have the breathtaking Velvet Strand Beach, rated 4.7/5 by locals and visitors, along with the legendary Portmarnock Golf Club, which has hosted an unbelievable 19 Irish Opens!
Here’s my personalized guide to experiencing this incredible coastal gem:
- First, hit the pure gold beach of Velvet Strand and its historic secret hiding at low tide.
- Next, we’ll talk prestige with the world-class golf links and other local sports.
- Lastly, my favorite places to eat and sleep, the perfect way around, and a getaway.
The Icon: Portmarnock Beach (The Velvet Strand)
This beach is, in fact, the heart of the village. It’s more than just the sand; it’s an experience, really. The locals and travelers alike consistently rate it highly for a reason-it’s pure magic.
The Velvet Strand Experience: Walking, Swimming, and Seascapes
The name of Velvet Strand is fully deserved: it proudly boasts 5km of gold, extremely soft sand, with great views of Howth Head and the Dublin Mountains in the distance. It consistently maintains its EU Blue Flag status, ensuring the beach is immaculately clean.
If you’re feeling brave, the water temperature averages around 14∘°C in summer, but the dips are well worth it, especially with lifeguards on duty every day from June to August. History buffs, keep eyes open at low tide: the retreating waves sometimes show remains of wrecks from the 17th century!
This beach also has a special spot in aviation lore; watch for the Southern Cross Monument, commemorating the 1932 transatlantic flight launched right here by James Fitzmaurice and Charles Ulm.
The people of social media refer to it as the “softest beach near Dublin,” and there are ample areas to picnic with your family, to go horse riding, or to kitesurf-even take lessons through the Rush Kitesurf Centre not far away!
Coastal Walks and Interconnected Trails
You could easily spend a whole day just walking the shore, but if you want more, the coastal trails here are phenomenal. My favourite is the flat, easy Portmarnock-Malahide Path. It’s an 8km route (about 2 hours of walking) that delivers stunning views of Lambay Island.
In fact, you may just spot seals or wallabies! – and iconic Howth Head lighthouse, with nearby Swords Co. Dublin also offering easy access to scenic coastal and nature walks. But if you are for any reason looking for an alternative, take the 5km link to the Baldoyle Nature Reserve. It’s one of the most popular spots for birdwatching and is rated 4.7/5 on AllTrails.
World-Class Play At The Portmarnock Golf Links
Even if you are not a golfer, you have to appreciate the history and prestige this course brings to the area. The Portmarnock Golf Links is not just a place of play; rather, it is a landmark within the region that has molded its identity and drawn golfing enthusiasts and pros alike from every corner of the globe for more than one hundred years. Its reputation as a world-class destination is well-earned.
A Golfer’s Pilgrimage: The History and Prestige of the Links
The original Portmarnock Golf Club, way back in 1894, is considered one of the real pillars of world links golf. Major tournaments hosted include an unprecedented 19 Irish Opens, while it consistently ranks among the top courses in the world. It is a challenging, classic links layout of par-71 and over 7,185 yards.
Through the years, the club has hosted legendary players and major tournaments, thus securing a spot in the pages of golfing history. The course’s natural dunes and coastal winds provide a unique challenge synonymous with true links golf.
Next door to the original course is the lovely Jameson Links at the Portmarnock Resort, featuring a spectacular redesign by the great Bernhard Langer himself. Whereas peak tee times at the main club go for upwards of €, 250-and you need to book six months in advance!-you can sometimes get better value with packages tied into staying at the resort.
What’s more? You can even take a Jameson Distillery tour! These packages put everything together for you: luxury accommodation, golf, and a taste of the culture for a memorable and hassle-free visit.
Other Sporting Activities
This area isn’t only for golfers. For travelers who will be in town a little longer, there is plenty to do: You can book a court at the Portmarnock LTC for tennis, or if you want a taste of authentic Irish sports, local GAA matches are usually free to watch, such as St. Sylvesters. They even run Clash Gaelic Games camps for kids during the summer!
There is such a variety of sports available that everyone, irrespective of age or interest, will find something enjoyable. Whether you’re looking to participate or simply soak in the local atmosphere, Portmarnock delivers, with a vibrant sporting scene available all year round—one of the many reasons it’s often mentioned among the best areas to live in Dublin.
Traveler Essentials: Stay, Dine, and Get Around
Be it for luxury or just to find that perfect little Irish experience, Portmarnock does offer fabulous options. With so much variety, you will definitely find something according to your taste and budget that best suits your visit to this great place. From a seaside resort to a small and cozy guesthouse, the choice is yours at Portmarnock, and of course, none disappoints.
Where to Stay: Hotels and Boutique Guesthouses
- Portmarnock Resort: This is the luxury pick, featuring the Jameson Golf Links and a spa right on the beachfront. Highly rated, it is ideal for a base if golf is your priority in the area. The resort also offers a range of amenities that include fine dining and wellness facilities, and allows for a comfortable and indulgent stay.
- Grand Hotel Malahide: This is another highly-recommended option, only a five-minute drive away, which will also make accessing Malahide Castle and the DART station relatively easy. Its elegant rooms and proximity to local attractions make it one of the favorite places for visitors to stay while exploring the area.
- Strand B&B: If you would like to stay in a more personal environment, then look for a local B&B. For example, Strand B&B is highly rated and only a two-minute walk from the Velvet Strand. In a B&B, you will be able to experience real Irish hospitality and a friendly and warm atmosphere.
Tip: If you are going to golf, book your accommodations and your tee times well in advance, especially during the peak summer months!
Top Restaurants and Local Pubs (Let’s Dine by the Sea)
Being by the sea means great food is always close at hand…uh, the salty delight! Restaurants and pubs in Portmarnock Co. Dublin also serve the best of local flavors, from fresh seafood to traditional Irish fare. Whatever you like, you’re sure to find something delicious to enjoy after a day spent discovering this coastline.
- Captain’s Table: This is an excellent beachfront location for some classic dishes, and I recommend their fish & chips at about €15–20, ideal after a day on the sand. The restaurant’s relaxed vibe and scenic views make it a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
- The Twenty Club: Situated at the clubhouse, this is just the right place for a nice Sunday brunch or a delightful seafood platter with the sea in sight. Its classic ambiance, along with its menu boasting gourmet courses, allows for a great dining experience.
- The Strawberry Tree: If you are staying at the resort, this restaurant offers wonderful local produce options for brunch. The menu showcases seasonal ingredients, so everything is fresh and full of flavor.
Getting There: The Tourist Transport Guide
Portmarnock is one of the most accessible seaside areas from Dublin. The location is well-served by public transport and roads to facilitate both types of travelers. Whether you go by train, taxi, or car, you have a simple and easy way of reaching Portmarnock.
- DART is King: From Connolly Station, take the DART, and in approximately 25 minutes, you will arrive at Portmarnock Station. It’s a pretty inexpensive fare of about €3.30.
Keep in mind that from the station, it’s a 25-minute walk to the beach, so jump into a quick taxi or ride-share for the remainder. The added plus is that this route has beautiful scenery en route.
- Airport Access: If you just landed, then the airport is only 15 km away, meaning a quick 20-minute taxi ride-including traffic, for about €30. Portmarnock will thus be an ideal destination for international visitors seeking a relaxing break close to the city.
- Parking: If driving, there is parking at the Velvet Strand available, but note it’s roughly €3 per hour in peak season. You might get lucky during the off-season when it’s free! Planning ahead with your visit can save you on parking fees and make for a stress-free one.
Local Secrets and Traveler Engagement
The Hidden Gems of Portmarnock Village
I always think the best part about traveling is finding those quiet spots the guidebooks miss. Don’t skip the ancient history: seek out the St. Marnock’s Church Ruins. This is the original site of the 6th-century hermit and makes for the most serene and photogenic walks—it feels like a real hidden history gem, much like the peaceful coastal feel you’ll also find around Rush Co. Dublin.
For the best coastal views, drive up to Carrickhill Martello Tower; these Napoleonic towers offer free-entry panoramas and are the ultimate sunset spot. It’s this quiet charm that keeps people coming back. As one of my friends once said, “It has a quiet vibe vs. the Howth crowds, perfect for a family beach day.”
Nearby Day Trips: Malahide and Howth
Portmarnock is a great center from which to tour North County Dublin. Take a 10-minute DART ride to Malahide Castle for a great day out with enjoyable gardens, historic castle tours, and even a picturesque marina. Alternatively, take a short bus journey to Howth Head, where you will find famous cliff walks and fresh seafood.
Howth is renowned for its rugged coastline, charming village atmosphere, and excellent seafood restaurants, making it a favorite for both locals and tourists. Both destinations offer a mix of history, nature, and authentic Irish experiences, perfect for a day trip from Portmarnock to relax or enjoy more adventures.
So, Here’s The Footnote of The Adventure
Portmarnock Co Dublin, is the perfect destination for any traveler looking for a unique blend of world-class golf, pristine coastline, and fascinating history all within arm’s reach of Dublin City. In itself, The Velvet Strand is worth the trip. So…planning your trip to Portmarnock? Drop a question about your itinerary, or let us know what you’re most excited to see! And do follow Dublinz Facebook and Dublinz Instagram for more exciting news!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How do I get to Portmarnock Beach/Velvet Strand from Dublin city centre?
Just hop on the DART train at Connolly Station-it’s a nice, swift 25-minute journey, and it will cost about €3.30. Once you arrive at Portmarnock Station, the beach is a nice walk away, or you can take a quick taxi for about €10. Coming from the airport, it’s a short 20-minute drive-about 15km.
Is there parking available at Portmarnock Beach, and how much does it cost?
Yes, there are approximately 500 car spaces designated in the Velvet Strand car park. Insider tip: If it’s any sunny day, you have to be there before 10 AM; it fills up in no time! There is a charge for parking: €3 per hour during the peak season- June to August-but it’s free off-season. Frankly, taking the DART saves you all this hassle!
What’s the best time to visit Portmarnock Beach for swimming or fewer crowds?
I recommend the summer weekday mornings, as those will be when the lifeguards are working, and the water is the warmest, at around 14°C. If you want to get in on a real treat, use a tide app. Low tide can uncover 17th-century shipwrecks buried beneath the waves. Keep in mind that this is an EU Blue Flag beach, so the quality of the water is superior.
Can visitors play at Portmarnock Golf Club or Jameson Golf Links?
Absolutely! The fabled Portmarnock Golf Club-it has hosted a record 19 Irish Opens-welcomes visitors, but you’ll need to book well in advance-like six months in advance-for those €250 peak green fees. The Jameson Links at the Portmarnock Resort is the far more accessible of the two and a great Bernhard Langer redesign, with fees in the region of €150-€200.
What are the top things to do in Portmarnock besides the beach and golf?
Plenty! Take a nice, tranquil stroll in the ruins of St. Marnock’s Church; it holds the site of the original 6th-century hermit! For the best photos, pop up to the Carrickhill Martello Tower for free, astounding coastal views. You can likewise walk the easy 8km coastal path to Malahide or do something very locally unique: the Clash Gaelic Games camps for kids!