Wild Swimming in Ireland. 5 of my Favorite Spots

Hi everyone. I hope I find you all well and that the sun is shining where you are. Wild swimming-meaning swimming in open natural bodies of water, has become increasingly popular in Ireland in recent times. I have long been a fan. Yes, the coastal waters of Ireland are certainly bracing but for me that’s part of the attraction. The rush of adrenaline and the feeling of well-being post swim are second to none.

Today I’m sharing 5 of my personal favorite spots for wild swimming in Ireland. But before I do, safety first! Below is a list of rules from Water Safety Ireland. Staying safe safe in the open water is paramount.

• Never swim alone
• Don’t swim just after eating
• Don’t swim when you’re hot or tired
• Don’t swim in strange places
• Don’t swim out after anything drifting
• Don’t stay in the water too long
• Don’t swim out to sea
• Swim parallel and close to the shore
• Do what the lifeguard tells you
• Never use air mattresses
• Pay attention to signs on the beach
• Don’t be a bully
• Learn to use equipment before trying it out
• Learn basic life support

Wild Swimming in Ireland – My Top 5 Places

1. Silver Strand Malin Beg, Donegal

We begin in gorgeous County Donegal and for my money, one of the most beautiful beaches in Ireland. Wooden steps lead you down to a perfect horseshoe strand of golden sands and the irresistibly clear and invigorating Atlantic Ocean. The sea cliffs provide the perfect back drop. I love this place in all weathers but when the sun shines, it’s just heaven!

2. Streedagh Beach, Sligo

Next up we’re off to my beloved County Sligo and probably my most visited wild swimming spot. Regular readers will know that I spend a a lot of time up here and I look upon this part of the world as my spiritual home. Streedagh beach really has it all. After walking the 3km long strand you arrive at a beautifully secluded spot for swimming. The stunning Benbulben mountain provides the perfect backdrop.

3. Dogs Bay Beach, County Galway

©Tourism Ireland

Heading down to County Galway now for another show-stopper! A stone’s throw from Roundstone on the way to Clifden you will find the stunning Dog’s Bay Beach. Another horseshoe-shaped strand with crystal clear Atlantic waters. The sand is particularly white as it’s composed of fragmented seashells. The shelter from the headlands make it perfect for swimming.

4. Beara Peninusla, West Cork

So now we head further south on Ireland’s Atlantic coast to the Beara Peninsula in West Cork. I visit friends down here as often as I can and have spent many happy days and nights in this stunningly beautiful part of the world. This is a great secluded spot we discovered for our swim one day near the picturesque village of Eyeries.

5. Seapoint , Dublin.

So it’s back to my home town of Dublin and one of the capitals most popular sea swimming spots. Situated about 10km south of Dublin city it offers wonderful views of Dublin Bay, It is very popular with swimmers all year round and is particularly busy on 25th December for the annual Christmas Day Swim which is only for the truly hardy!

Thanks so much for dropping by and remember if you are going for a swim in open waters, check the guidelines thoroughly and stay safe. And if wild swimming isn’t your thing, these places are well worth a visit for a gentle paddle or an awesome beach walk!

Take care of yourselves and each other,

Slán go fóill!

Lulu