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Beach Holidays in Ireland

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Ireland – one hell of a place for adventure
If you find that the ideal way to switch off is to turn on your adventure and activity mojo, Ireland offers the perfect natural playground. Get a fresh view of our mountains, lakes and coastline with easy-going options like hiking, biking, sea kayaking and angling. Or unleash that inner adrenalin junky with pursuits ranging from white-water paddling to wake boarding and sky diving to surfing. Why not visit one of Ireland's many outdoor adventure centres...

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Cycling & Biking learn more »

Cycling & Biking

Plan your cycling break in Ireland - choose from cycling routes, including mountain bike trails, long-distance options and family friendly jaunts.

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On the Water learn more »

On the Water

Whether you’re a born water baby or simply want to dip your toe into the water sports world, check out a host of great activities. Will you learn to surf or sail, wakeboard or windsurf? Whatever you pick, we reckon it’s time to dive in!

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Equestrian Adventures learn more »

Equestrian Adventures

There is maybe no better way to connect with the Irish landscape than by travelling on horseback. Whether you're an experienced rider or a novice, you’ll be matched up with the perfect mount to show you the way.

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Walking & Hiking learn more »

Walking & Hiking

There’s nothing quite like taking a walk in a new area to really get a feel for the place. From the Sunday stroller to the hard-core hiker, we’ve got the perfect walk for you. So be sure to pack those walking shoes!

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More Activities & Adventure

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Time for a few holes?

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Lets go surfing!

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Find out more about fishing

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Find a unique Adventure

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Precious Gems
Old and new, Ireland’s landscape of arts, culture and heritage offers a kaleidoscope of delights. Get in touch with the energy of the past when you visit treasures like the Skelligs and the Carrowkeel Tombs. And feel that same creative vibrancy within the modern scene where artists as diverse as Philip Treacy, Graham Knuttel and Roddy Doyle thrive.

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Uniquely Irish learn more »

Uniquely Irish

Want to hear the bodhrán? Or have a go at sean nós dancing? Go to a GAA match, to your local for a trad session or chat as Gaeilge on a Gaeltacht island. You don’t have to go far, the sporting and cultural events unique to Ireland are all around you.

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Ireland through the Ages learn more »

 Ireland through the Ages

The story of Ireland and her people through the ages is a rich and diverse one, with many influences, having shaped our Landscape, our People and our Society. Nowhere is this more visible than in our historic castles, towns, sites and attractions.

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Natural Ireland learn more »

Natural Ireland

When the New Seven Wonders of Nature are announced on 7th November 2011, will the Cliffs of Moher be among them? The Clare landmark is Ireland’s entry to the global competition, joining other famous attractions like the Grand Canyon and Kilimanjaro.

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Explore the Arts learn more »

Explore the Arts

Look to Ireland's unique culture and heritage for an unforgettable holiday experience. Awaken your senses at one of the many cultural events happening around the country, whether by day or by night.

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More Arts, Culture & Heritage

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Find out about literary festivals

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Take a walk on the wild side

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Get a taste for genuine Irish food.
Discover Ireland’s restaurants, enjoy regional dishes or sample local fare from passionate artisan producers. From food festivals to farmers markets, restaurants and cookery schools, read on and find out more about Irish food.

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Food Festivals learn more »

Food Festivals

Fresh local produce and celebrations of great Irish food, here’s our pick of upcoming Irish foodie festivals.

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Food Trails learn more »

Food Trails

Choose from a selection of Ireland’s tasty food trails in Dublin, Cork, and Kilkenny to name a few.

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Cookery Schools learn more »

Cookery Schools

Search through our selection of Cookery schools and cooking courses in Ireland.

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Food & Farmers Markets learn more »

Food & Farmers Markets

Natural ingredients and fresh produce at your fingertips… great places to see, taste, and talk to producers about local food.

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More Food

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Go on, you’re worth it...

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Treat yourself to a nice meal out.

Beaches and Coastline

There has never been a better time to enjoy Ireland's beautiful beaches. This year 82 Irish beaches and 2 marinas have received the International Blue Flag award - eight more Blue Flags than 2010, and an all time record high for Ireland.

And 58 beaches have received the National Green Coast Award, for their clean environment, excellent water quality and natural beauty. These beaches are exceptional places to visit and enjoy our rich coastal heritage.

Brochure Downloads from An Taisce

View the full Blue Flag list and find out more about the award  (pdf, 1.27 MB)

Full listing of Green Coast beaches and more details (pdf, 1 MB)

Family Beaches

Family-friendly Blue Flag beaches to visit include Bundoran Beach in Donegal, Ballybunion and Banna Beaches in Kerry, Courtown in Wexford, Tramore in Waterford and Youghal Beach in Cork.

All of these areas also have family-friendly facilities, restaurants and accommodation.

Find out more about these great  locations in our Family section 

Dramatic Coast

To appreciate the shape of our coastline, you can go on dramatic cliff-top walks, like the one around Howth Head, or drive scenic routes like the South East Coastal Drive.

Some parts of the coast are best seen from the sea: try guided kayak tours and small boat trips.

And a visit to one of our many off-shore islands will give you another perspective again. Our coastline is also great for the adventurous.

Whether you’re a sailor or a surfer, a diver or a snorkeller, Ireland has some of the best locations for learning and for testing your skills. See the Activities and Adventure section of this website for more ideas.