The coastline of County Fingal is described as stretching 88 kilometres between Sutton and Balbriggan. It includes three protected estuaries, salt marshes and 13 larger beaches. Each place has its own distinct character, with different types of beaches, cliff walks and historic discoveries.
Beaches between Portmarnock and Skerries
At five kilometres, Velvet Strand in Portmarnock is the longest of the three sandy beaches described here. Balcarrick Beach in Donabate measures 3.4 kilometres and combines sand with dunes and rock pools. Skerries South Strand is two kilometres long and has a promenade and a coastal path. This means you can compare more than just the beach lengths: Balcarrick adds dunes and rock pools to its sand, while in Skerries the promenade and coastal path are also part of the beach experience.
Cliff walks, cycle route and sailing courses
In Howth, the cliff walks take centre stage. The Howth Cliff Path comprises four loop walks ranging from 6 to 10 kilometres. The Howth Cliff Path Loop starts at Howth DART station, follows the cliffs to “The Summit” and returns along a path that runs parallel to the outward route. The cliff walks offer views of Ireland’s Eye and Lambay Island. The cliffs along the marked paths of Howth Head are important bird habitats; grey seals can also be spotted there.
A different coastal perspective is offered by the completed section of cycle path between Portmarnock and Baldoyle. It is two kilometres long, passes through the racecourse and runs along a varied coastline. As infrastructure conditions can change, it is advisable to check the latest situation before setting out. Sailing clubs in Howth, Malahide and Skerries offer courses for beginners and experienced sailors. Check with the relevant club for current offerings.
Mills and a long history
Skerries Mills is a restored complex with two windmills, a watermill and a 19th-century bakery. On guided tours, you can grind flour in the traditional way using a millstone and watch the waterwheel at work. Check the current tour options before visiting. The Watermill Cafe at Skerries Mills bakes daily and offers a wide selection of hot and cold food.
The history here spans from the 19th-century bakery to Swords Castle, whose history stretches back more than 800 years. Malahide is also home to the Casino Model Railway Museum, located in the restored Casino Cottage. It is Ireland’s first model railway museum and is next to Malahide station. A 2023 exhibition description outlines an interactive display featuring working modern models that offers insight into Ireland’s railway and tram system. If you plan to travel by train, check current timetables.
Castle gardens and butterflies in Malahide
Malahide Castle and Gardens include a castle, walled gardens and extensive green spaces. The Butterfly House is located in the grounds of Malahide Castle. It is an educational and conservation space where you can explore the diversity and beauty of butterfly species. The gardens and butterflies thus add two more discoveries in Malahide to the railway exhibition.
Discover more destinations
Discover more destinations: Swords, Sutton, Santry, Portmarnock, Donabate, Cloghran, Castleknock, Blanchardstown, Tyrrelstown, Howth, Balbriggan, Lusk, Na Sceirí, Gormanston, Roganstown, Malahide, Rush, Ward, Ballyboughal, Kilsallaghan, Garristown.
Go to the main travel overview: Leinster.
