Ireland’s top seaside vacation locations - villages and beaches not to miss - PHOTOS

Top spots around Ireland’s coast for the perfect family vacation filled with ‘craic agus ceol’

PHOTOS - Ireland's top seaside spots

Ireland is essentially a small island off mainland Europe and the Irish a bunch of islanders, and very proud of the fact. As such we have a strange affinity with the sea and are extremely proud of our beaches and breath-taking coastline.

Many who have grown up in Ireland would have spent their summer vacation as a child in a cottage down the beach in Clonakilty, County Cork or in a caravan in Bundoran, County Donegal.  I guarantee that these were magic holidays and they continue to be wonderful spots for a family getaway.

The wonderful thing about a seaside resort, Irish sea side resorts at least, is that you have the comfort and entertainment of easy access to lively towns while your family have the freedom to indulge in water sports, golf or just long walks along some of the most stunning beaches in the world.

Although you’ll most likely not be spending the days sunbathing by the beach (thank you Ireland’s weather!) in the villages you are sure that you’ll find the ‘craic agus ceol’ (fun and music) that Ireland is famous for in the form of lively bars with live traditional music. You’ll also have the chance to sample some of the local cuisine in some of Ireland’s most idyllic spots.

Enniscrone, County Sligo

This small seaside town is renowned for its long sandy beautiful beach. Located on the Atlantic Ocean it is quickly becoming one of the best spots for learning to surf in Ireland. The village is located just 7km from Ballina, County Mayo but there is plenty to do it Enniscrone itself whether it’s a walk on the beach, a round of golf of soaking in the seaweed baths.

Bundoran, County Donegal

Budoran is probably the best known holiday spot in the northwest now a haven for serious surfers and the mere fledglings among us this is a seriously fun and lively town during the summer season. Filled with great bars, restaurants, nightclubs and even fun fairs and a water park this is an excellent spot to entertain the family.

Lahinch, County Clare

Lahinch town sits above a one-mile stretch of spectacular golden beach that makes the town such a popular resort. The town has wonderful scenery, entertainment, sports and a good choice in accommodation.

Clonakilty, County Cork

Known by the locals as simply ‘Clon’, this town is bustling with life and is just 3km from the beach. The town is situated in the postcard perfect west Cork, is lively and welcoming and steeped in history. The hometown of Michael Colins and a town which suffered greatly during the Great Famine you are sure and interesting stay. Also west Cork is Ireland’s food capital and you are sure to eat very well.

PHOTOS - Ireland's top seaside spots

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