On days when I need to clear my head, I chase the best views in Dublin with nature, sea & skyline vibes. Sometimes it’s standing on Killiney Hill at sunrise, other times it’s watching the waves crash along the Great South Wall, or wandering forest trails that feel like a hidden escape.
These places remind me how easy it is to find peace and adventure right on the city’s edge. So I feel like sharing my personal favorite spots with you. These are the places you can head to for a quick refresh without any worries.
So, keep reading to know more about the views that never fail to lift my mood and make Dublin feel extra special!
The Obelisk
I recently took this trip to Killiney Hill to see the Obelisk, and I have to say, it felt like a brilliant choice for a morning out. I went with a friend, and we decided to start early enough to catch the sunrise. That timing made all the difference. The car park had plenty of space, and from there it was only a ten to fifteen minute uphill walk. You do need a bit of energy, but it’s short enough that it feels manageable.
By the time we reached the top, the view left us speechless. Killiney Bay sparkled in the morning light, Dalkey Island sat quietly in the distance, and Dun Laoghaire stretched further down the coast. Turning around, the Wicklow Mountains framed the skyline, and the Dublin skyline views brought the city into the picture. It felt surreal, like the sea, mountains, and city had all lined up for one incredible scene.
I really loved how relaxed it felt up there. Locals were walking their dogs, joggers passed by, and even a few cyclists tackled the steep climb. My friend and I just sat for a while, letting the scenery sink in. It’s the kind of spot where you can share stories, laugh a little, or simply sit in silence together. If you’re after romantic viewpoints in Dublin or just need a break from the noise of the city, this place does the job beautifully.
On the way down, we treated ourselves to coffee and something sweet at the small café near the entrance. After the walk, it felt like the perfect reward! There’s no food or drink at the top, so that little stop is a must. If you can, try going in the morning or evening because the softer light makes the coastal views of Dublin even more magical.
For anyone craving a short hike with best views that genuinely stay with you, Killiney Hill is worth every step!
Poolbeg Lighthouse and Baily Lighthouse
My cousin and I have lost count of how many times we’ve been to Poolbeg and Baily Lighthouse. But one day we decided to switch things up. We gave ourselves a challenge: watch the sunrise at Poolbeg and end the day with the sunset at Baily. It sounded ambitious, but Dublin’s coastline makes even that kind of adventure possible.
We set off before most of the city was even awake and headed straight for Poolbeg Lighthouse. To reach it, you follow the Great South Wall, a long strip of concrete stretching into Dublin Bay. The start isn’t exactly scenic, with factories and a wastewater plant lining the way, but once you step out onto the wall, everything changes.
The city slips away, waves crash against the rocks, seabirds swoop around, and the sea air hits sharp and fresh. By the time we reached the big red lighthouse, it was glowing against the water. Watching the sun rise over the bay felt like a reward in itself, the kind of moment that stays with you long after.
Later in the afternoon, we made our way to Howth for Baily Lighthouse. This side of Dublin feels like a different world. Instead of industrial views, you’re surrounded by cliffs, grassy slopes, and the kind of coastal walks in Dublin that locals never get tired of.
The lighthouse itself is private, but that doesn’t take away from the experience. The trails around it offer plenty of places to stop, look out over the bay, and enjoy scenery that even the best camera can’t fully capture. We found a grassy patch, set up a small picnic, and stayed put as the sun dipped low. Watching the sky turn golden and the cliffs glow while the sea shimmered felt like one of the best places to watch sunset in Dublin.
The day wasn’t about ticking off landmarks. It was about time well spent outdoors, soaking up sea air, laughing at our own tired legs, and finding joy in simple things. For me, that’s what makes Poolbeg and Baily such hidden gems Dublin views is, you don’t need shops, cafés, or any tourist extras. Just good company, the sea, and a sense of adventure are enough to make it unforgettable.
Ticknock
Ticknock has turned into one of my regular weekend escapes, and most of the time I head there on my bike. The ride itself is always a bit of a workout, but I secretly love that part. By the time I roll into the main car park, I feel like I’ve already earned the day. The car park is fairly big with plenty of marked spaces, including disabled spots, but if it’s a sunny weekend, it fills up quickly, going early saves the stress. Right by the entrance, there’s a small coffee shop and even a bike rental place, so nobody has an excuse to skip the trails.
What keeps pulling me back are the trails themselves. They’re well-kept, with options for every mood. Some are steady and relaxed, while others make your legs and lungs work harder. The Skyline Trail is the one I always look forward to. On a bike, it’s fast, full of twists, and has those moments where you feel like a kid again, racing with the wind in your face. Sure, the heavy biking does wear down the soil, and sometimes the forest shows the strain, but the thrill makes it hard to stay away.
On days I leave the bike at home and just hike, Ticknock feels like a completely different place. The Fairy Castle Loop is my go-to trail. The steady climb eventually leads up to Two Rock Mountain, and the views from there never get old. Standing at the top, you can see Dublin spread out beneath you, the sea shining in the distance, and on a clear day, even Wales across the water. It’s one of those best views and scenic walking trails in Dublin that always feels rewarding no matter how many times you’ve done it.
Of course, Ticknock isn’t flawless. The telecom masts at the summit stick out awkwardly, and it’s not the richest spot for wildlife. Still, when you’re surrounded by Dublin mountain views and that endless stretch of sea, the small annoyances fade quickly. For me, Ticknock is where I go to reset. Sometimes for the adrenaline of a bike ride, other times for the calm of a long walk along peaceful walking routes in Dublin. Either way, it always feels like time well spent.
Ballycorus Lead Mines
When my friend visited Dublin last month, he asked me to bring him somewhere with a proper sunset view. I didn’t even need to think I suggested Ballycorus Lead Mines. It is not far from the city, but once you are there it feels like you have stepped into a different place. The drive through the winding Dublin Mountains already feels exciting, and when we pulled into the small car park the air felt cooler and fresher.
The walk up is simple, just a steady climb through the trees. Families were walking dogs, kids were running up the path, and we chatted as we made our way along. I always remind people to wear decent shoes because the mud can be tricky if it has rained.
As we turned a corner, the old stone chimney finally appeared. My friend stopped and just stared. It is not every day you see a tower from the 1800s rising out of the hillside like something from a film. We climbed up to it, and the view was worth every step. Dublin Bay opened up in front of us, the city spread out below, and Bray and Shankill stretched further along the coast. On a clear evening, you can even catch a glimpse of Wales, which still amazes me every time.
We timed it perfectly. The sun dipped down and turned the whole bay golden. For a few minutes, we just stood there without saying much, taking it all in. On the way back a local told us about a small tunnel, so we went for a quick look. Nearby, we even found a tree swing and couldn’t resist having a go. Two grown adults laughing like kids while the light faded, it turned a simple walk into a core memory. That is why Ballycorus is one of my favorite places to escape. The tower, the views, and the little surprises along the way make it a spot I never get tired of sharing.
Montpelier Hill and Forest Loop Trail
Last weekend a friend came to stay with my family in Dublin, and on a sunny afternoon he asked if I knew a spot with city views and a bit of adventure. I didn’t hesitate, I suggested Montpelier Hill and the old Hellfire Club at the top. At 383 meters, it is not the tallest climb around, but it gives you sweeping views that feel like you are on top of the city.
We parked at the base car park early, which was a good call since weekends get busy. In summer, a little coffee van waits there, perfect for grabbing a drink or even ice cream before heading off. The Montpelier Hill Forest Loop Trail starts just beyond. The path is well marked and easy to follow, making it one of the better family friendly walks in Dublin. There is also a steep shortcut for anyone eager to reach the top quicker. We chose the longer route, enjoying the fresh air, the sound of leaves underfoot, and even spotting a deer darting through the trees.
After about half an hour, the ruins of the Hellfire Club came into view. Built back in 1725, the old hunting lodge carries centuries of stories. People still talk about wild parties, secret meetings, and even dark legends tied to the place. We wandered inside, joking about the stories of running backwards twelve times to summon the Devil, while carefully stepping through the stone rooms.
Then came the reward, the views from the summit were breathtaking. Dublin Bay sparkled in the distance, and the Dublin skyline views stretched far across the horizon. We stood there for a while, letting the wind hit our faces, feeling like the city was far behind us.
For me, Montpelier Hill offers more than history. The mix of forest trails, wide panoramas, and spooky legends makes it one of the most fun scenic walking trails in Dublin. It is a place where you can hike, explore, and still feel like you’ve discovered something new each time.
Great South Wall
Walking the Great South Wall is one of those experiences that feels uniquely Dublin. The seawall stretches over four kilometers straight into the bay and ends at the bright red Poolbeg Lighthouse. It is a long walk, but the mix of sea air, open space, and the city skyline makes it worth every step. For me, it is one of the classic coastal walks in Dublin that never gets old.
Getting there is easy. You can park close to the entrance, grab an Uber, or start from Sandymount Strand if you want to stretch the day even more. I like stopping at Mr. Hobbs’ coffee van near the start because it makes the first part of the walk feel easier with something warm in hand. Once you step onto the wall, the noise of the city fades. The sea stretches wide on both sides, ships glide in and out of the harbor, and seabirds swoop close to the waves.
The walk itself keeps you alert. The surface is uneven, so it is not great for bikes or wheelchairs, and on windy days the cold hits hard with no shelter to escape it. Still, there is always something happening. Fishermen line the edges, families stroll together, couples sit on the rocks, and dogs chase each other along the path.
Reaching the lighthouse feels like a reward in itself. The views open up to reveal Dublin Bay viewpoints that stretch as far as Howth on one side and Dún Laoghaire on the other. Calm days make the water look smooth and still, but the stormy days bring waves crashing against the rocks. Both give the walk a different mood, and both remind me why it is one of the most memorable walking routes with best sea views Dublin has to offer.
Final Thoughts for Dublin’s Best Views
Writing about the best views in Dublin reminds me why I keep exploring this city. For me, these spots are proof that you do not need to go far for adventure. Some of the most rewarding views are right on the edge of the city, waiting for anyone who takes the time to walk, climb, or simply pause and look around.
So if you find yourself in Dublin, choose a trail, bring someone along, and enjoy the views that make this city feel alive!