The Forty Foot in Dublin

A rare 20+ day on a Bank Holiday Sunday in May, Can't go wrong with Sandycove Beach and Forty Foot, especially when not too overcrowded.

I went on a Saturday during incoming tide, having taken the DART train from Dublin city center to Sandycove. It was only 30minutes away by DART to this beautiful little swimming spot. I was worried there wouldn't be other swimmers, as a female solo traveler, visiting for the first time. It was a worry for naught as lots of swimmers of all ages were enjoying the beach. The water was calm, with rolling waves that crashed in. The water was cold and refreshing, although I would recommend visiting on a sunny day to warm up between dips. There are no change rooms, but there is a shower to rinse the sea water off. Overall one of my favorite things during my visit to Ireland in May 2026

Highly recommend year round - try to stay in past a minute and then you could stay in all day!

Fantastic spot for swimming. It's easy to strike up a conversation with locals here!

Great experience... super atmosphere, only suitable for good swimmers,,, everyone welcome

This is Forty Foot—a place with character, more open, lively, almost daring. The air there is different—marine, salty, slightly cool, with a wind that doesn't just brush against you, but plays with you. It moves your hair, opens up your lines, makes your look freer, less staged than in the gardens.

Christ this water is cold. Absolutely a must visit if in the area and worth the dip if you dare. We had such fun on the walk to the Forty Foot and having a dip. Plenty of places to get changed around here if you’re shy !

when I came to Ireland swimming at FortyFoot was an unforgettable experience for me. When you leave the busy city centre of Dublin and arrive in Sandycove, I recommend going to FortyFoot. I remember the sea temperature was around 9 degrees, and I especially recommend swimming on sunny days.It is also one of the symbolic places of warm-hearted and helpful Ireland. People are always connected to their values, and as someone who had the chance to meet them, I send my best regards☘️

Good place to jump into the sea

A wonderful discovery during a walk in Dalkey. The spot is popular with intrepid swimmers. The view is incredible.