7 Of The Best Places To Go Sea Swimming In Ireland

The Irish sea isn’t exactly famous for being the warmest, but that chilly water is said to bring a lot of benefits. Swimming in the sea apparently boosts your immune system as cold water boosts the white blood cell count in the body. Plus, swimming in the sea can even make us happier: the cold water brings us close to the pain barrier, and endorphins are released to help us cope. So all the cold isn’t for nothing!

Sea swimming in Ireland is on the rise, with locals and visitors alike diving right in. Whether you’re an early bird who likes to catch a sunrise dip or you’re more of a toe dipper, here are some of the best places to go sea swimming in Ireland….

Best Places To Go Sea Swimming In Ireland

1. Carrick-a-Rede, County Antrim

The swim between Larrybane Bay and Carrick-a-Rede Island is one of the most dramatic swims in Ireland (about 1km). You’ll swim under the famous rope bridge to the island but be aware this is for more advanced swimmers as the tidal currents are quite strong.

Photo via ireland_before_you_die

2. Solomon’s Hole, The Hook, Co Wexford

Solomon’s Hole at Hook Head is a natural salt-water pool, surrounded by rock, it’s a paradise for sea swimmers as the waters around the Hook can be unpredictable!

Photo via karenwaren

3. Salthill, Galway

The ultimate swimming spot in Galway, if you’re looking for a quiet swim then this might not be the place for you! Built in 1954 this diving spot has been bringing is a big crowd since.

Photo via allaroundireland

4. Red Rock, Howth, Co. Dublin

One of the trickier places to get to on this list, and not for faint-hearted, but definitely worth the trek for the breathtaking views! Be sure to wear good shoes as the cliffs are quite steep.

Photo Cred jamie_jj_

5. Portocloy, Co Mayo

This picture-perfect beach at Portocloy looks like somewhere in the Mediterranean, but don’t let that fool you, the water is still cold! Have some warm clothes to change into after your dip.

Photo via adonmcfarlane

6. The Velvet Strand, Portmarnock, Co. Dublin

Named the ‘Velvet Strand’, it’s the perfect spot for a quick dip, and it’s easily accessible by the bus or DART.

It’s a busy spot on the weekend but its 5km in length so you’re sure to find a quiet spot along the stretch.

7. Rougey Rocks, Co. Donegal

Close to Bundoran is a cliff walk known as Rougey Rocks. The sea stacks lean out over a deep narrow inlet, making it perfect for diving. It’s also home to one of the last remaining springboards in Ireland, as most were pulled up by councils!