23 Beaches In Donegal + Facilities And Activities in 2023

Looking for the best beaches in Donegal?

With over 100 beaches to choose from, from secluded coves to dramatic cliffs, there’s always something for everyone.

 It’s no surprise why people love visiting Donegal every year!

Beaches in Donegal are not your typical tropical beach, but they will still spoil you with stretches of beautiful sandy coastline with stunning aqua-colored waves.

Since these beaches are located mostly in North Ireland, be sure to bring Irish-weather friendly beach gear ! (Don’t worry, I’ve covered these in this article too, so that you’ll be well prepared!)

Here is a list of our 23 favorite beaches in Donegal, perfect for families and solo travelers.

The Best Popular Beach in Donegal: Bundoran Beach

The Best Hidden Beach in Donegal: Muckros Bay Beach

23 Best Fun & Popular Beaches In Donegal

1. Narin Beach

2. Portsalon Beach

3. Lisfannon Beach

4. Maghera Beach

5. Murvagh Beach

6. Rossnowlagh Beach

7. Bundoran Beach

8. Fintra Beach

9. Culdaff Beach

10. Marble Hill Beach

11. Silver Strand Beach

Best Peaceful & Quiet Beaches In Donegal

12. Stroove Beach

13. Kinnagoe Bay

14. Dooey Beach

15. Tramore Beach

16. Tullagh Strand Beach

17. St John’s Point Beach

18. Muckros Bay Beach

19. Killahoey Beach

20. Downings Beach

21.  Maghery Beach

22.  Stroove Beach

23. Carrickfinn Beach

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23 Best Beaches in Donegal 

Here is the map of Donegal beaches where we marked all of the 23 best beaches in Donegal that are both family-friendly and suitable for solo travelers.

From the fun, popular sandy beach to the peaceful sea breeze from a quiet beach cove.

• Light blue: Popular Beaches
• Dark blue: Secluded Beaches

Without a doubt, Donegal is rich in stunning beaches for everyone, plus it also has the most blue flag beaches in Ireland.  Blue Flag is a world-accreditation award for the best maintained beaches in the world based on its comprehensive credentials.

So, it’s safe to say that Donegal is home to world-class beaches!

Best Fun & Popular Beaches In Donegal 

If you are an extrovert and plan to have a fun day in the sun with your family and friends, then these beaches will certainly keep you sunny and happy as there are plenty of amenities nearby and friendly locals to welcome you. 

Do note that some beaches have seasonal guards on duty from July to August due to heavy crowds during peak season. 

So, without wasting any time, let’s visit any one of the beaches in Donegal.

1. Narin Beach 

This Narin beach in Donegal is also known as Portnoo Beach, a mile long of golden sands near the quaint town of Ardara, is in Ireland’s beautiful Natural Heritage Area (NHA).

This is one of the most popular beaches in Donegal as it has plenty of facilities as well as lifeguards, which are readily available throughout the summer months.

 In fact, Narin/Portnoo Beach is one of the blue flag beaches in Donegal.

You may safely travel to Inishkeel Island at low tide, but be sure to check the tide timings first.

Here’s what you need to know:

Location:	An Fhearthainn (40km northwest of Donegal Town)
Carpark:	Yes
Safety:	Yes, they have seasonal lifeguards.
Dog-friendly:	No seasonal ban, but all dogs must be on a leash
Facilities:	Has toilets
Other features:	Popular amongst family Ideal for swimming
Blue-Flag Status	Yes

2. Portsalon Beach

Next up is another great popular beach which is the Portsalon Donegal!

With its long stretch of gorgeous, extraordinarily stunning golden sand, this crescent-shaped bay is truly one of Donegal’s prized natural attractions.

This beach is famously known as Portsalon or Ballymastocker Beach, where it was recognized as a Blue Flag beach, and some say that this beach can be contested as the “second most beautiful beach in the world.” 

Fun fact, even the American pop star, Taylor Swift, was here for the summer back in 2021!

Here’s what you need to know:

Location:	Portsalon (79 km northeast of Donegal Town)
Carpark:	Yes
Safety:	Yes, they have seasonal lifeguards.
Dog-friendly:	No seasonal ban, but all dogs must be on a leash
Facilities:	Has toilet Has picnic benches
Other features:	Popular amongst family Ideal for swimming
Blue-Flag Status	Yes

3. Lisfannon Beach

Lisfannon Beach in Donegal, which is located right in the middle of Lough Swilly, provides visitors with breathtaking panoramas of the Northwest coast of Ireland.

Because of its natural location, this beach is well shielded from the more powerful sea currents and, as a result, brings gentler waves to its sandy shoreline.

With shallow swimming places (which is a perfect place for children to swim), it’s no surprise that this beach can easily be one of the best family-friendly beaches in Donegal.

Here’s what you need to know:

Location:	Fahan (77.6km northeast of Donegal Town)
Carpark:	Yes
Safety:	Yes, they have seasonal lifeguards.
Dog-friendly:	No seasonal ban, but all dogs must be on a leash
Facilities:	Has toilets
Other features:	Popular amongst family Ideal for swimming & surfing
Blue-Flag Status	No

4. Maghera Beach 

If you’re looking for the most exotic beach in Ireland, then you should consider visiting Maghera Beach Donegal. 

It is one of the best beaches in Donegal with a gorgeous coastal cave!

Tourists would come from all over the globe to see this popular treasure because of its perfect white sand, deep blue ocean, and one of its unique caves called Maghera Caves.

Note: always check the tide timetable or ask friendly locals before planning your visit to the Magheras Cave beach! 

If you have extra time, be sure to stop by one of the best waterfalls in Ireland; Assaranca Waterfall (which is only a 2-minutes drive away).

Here’s what you need to know:

Location:	Meentashask (36.8km west of Donegal Town)
Carpark:	Yes
Safety:	Not safe for swimming due to dangerous rip tides.
Dog-friendly:	No seasonal ban, but all dogs must be on a leash.
Facilities:	Paid toilets (€0.50)
Other features:	Nearby Assaranca Waterfall (2-minute drive)Home to Caves of Maghera
Blue-Flag Status	No

5. Murvagh Beach

Murvagh Beach Donegal is one of  Ireland’s best southwestern coasts. In fact, this is one of the top Blue Flag beaches in Donegal with beautiful landscapes as it is surrounded by beautiful sand dunes and Murvagh Forest.

As a result, this beach is often locals’ favorite spot for a picnic spot and is great for strolling and exploring on a day trip with the kids. 

This highly popular beach is only 13 kilometers away from Donegal town centre, which is one of the nearest beaches in Donegal town.

Here’s what you need to know:

Location:	Murvagh (13km south of Donegal Town)
Carpark:	Yes
Safety:	Yes, they have seasonal lifeguards.
Dog-friendly:	No seasonal ban, but all dogs must be on a leash
Facilities:	Has toilet
Other features:	Popular amongst family Ideal for swimming & surfing Nearby Donegal Golf Club
Blue-Flag Status	Yes

6. Rossnowlagh Beach

If you’re looking for the best beach near Donegal Town, Rossnowlagh Beach is the perfect beach for you and your loved ones as it is only 18km (11.1 miles) away from Donegal Town Centre.

A lot of people go swimming in Rossnowlagh because it’s a Blue Flag beach with exciting tidal waves.

 For experienced surfers, the beach’s funnel shape and gradual incline into the Atlantic Ocean and Donegal Bay is an absolute playground for surfers.

In fact, this is one of the most popular beaches in Donegal, especially during summer. Rest assured, as there are seasonal lifeguards nearby to be on the lookout.

Here’s what you need to know:

Location:	Coolmore (20 km south of Donegal Town)
Carpark:	Yes
Safety:	Yes, they have seasonal lifeguards.
Dog-friendly:	No seasonal ban, but all dogs must be on a leash
Facilities:	Accessible via public transport busHas toilet
Other features:	Popular amongst family Ideal for swimming & surfing Has nearby surf school
Blue-Flag Status	Yes

7. Bundoran Beach

Bundoran Beach, a popular tourist destination, is located on the southwestern tip of Donegal, with breathtaking views of Donegal Bay. In fact, it is one of Donegal’s blue flag beaches near Donegal town, which is only 30km (18.6 miles) away from Donegal Town Centre.

Here are some of the fun, popular things you can do when going to Bundoran Beach, such as;

• Horse Riding 
• Playing golf
• Learn surfing
• Have fun at the nearby adventure park

In fact, this beach is one of the nicest beach in Donegal to bring your family as it is also nearby several natural wonders in Ireland, such as the Fairy Bridges.

Bundoran beach is home to some of the most consistent waves where surfers from all over the globe flock to this stretch of shore to ride the massive Atlantic surge, making it one of the best beaches in Donegal for surfing!

Here’s what you need to know:

Location:	Bundoran (30 km south of Donegal Town)
Carpark:	Yes
Safety:	Yes, they have seasonal lifeguards.
Dog-friendly:	No seasonal ban, but all dogs must be on a leash.
Facilities:	It has outdoor sea poolsHas toilets and parking
Other features:	Popular amongst family Ideal for swimming & surfing Nearby Adventure parks and Waterworld park Nearby famous Fairy bridges
Blue-Flag Status	Yes

8. Fintra Beach

Located on the southwest coast of County Donegal, not far from the fishing town of Killybegs, lies the large, rural beach of Fintra Beach, which is also one of the most beautiful and popular beach near Donegal.

With its warm weather and pearly white sands, you can find children playing beach games such as sandcastles and splashing around in its coastal, gentle waves. 

We do advise that you come early with your family, as it can get quite crowded with full parking lots during the summer. If you’re feeling a bit adventurous, be sure to try and walk further ahead, and you may find a small perfect lagoon for your family to settle in.

This is truly one of the best family-friendly beaches in Donegal Ireland.

Here’s what you need to know:

Location:	Killybegs  (27 km west of Donegal Town)
Carpark:	Yes
Safety:	Yes, they have seasonal lifeguards.
Dog-friendly:	No seasonal ban, but all dogs must be on a leash
Facilities:	Has toilet
Other features:	Popular amongst family Clean beach Has stunning sand dune5-minutes away from Secret Waterfall
Blue-Flag Status	Yes

9. Culdaff Beach

The beautiful Culdaff Beach is at the northwestern corner of Ireland’s Inishowen peninsula.

This safe and popular beach is a favorite spot for swimmers, walkers, and enthusiasts of various water sports because of its nice flat sandy shoreline and unique rock formations.

In fact, it is one of the best beaches in Donegal for swimming, thanks to its gentle waves and clear water.

Here’s what you need to know:

Location:	Culdaff (115 km North of Donegal Town)
Carpark:	Yes
Safety:	Yes, they have seasonal lifeguards.
Dog-friendly:	No seasonal ban, but all dogs must be on a leash.
Facilities:	Has toilet
Other features:	Near Inishowen 100 road trip15-minutes away from Malin Head Across Doagh Famine Village
Blue-Flag Status	Yes

10. Marble Hill Beach

The County of Donegal’s northern coast is home to the expansive beach known as Marble Hill Beach, which is situated in a wonderfully sheltered area of Dunfanaghy.

This beach is located in a rural setting with a diverse wildlife population. You may spot wildflowers and watch birds on the sand dunes that surround the shore.

It is one of the few places in Ireland where tourists may hear the calling of the corncrake (a local Irish bird).

Here’s what you need to know:

Location:	Cloonmass (29 km south of Donegal Town)
Carpark:	Yes
Safety:	Yes, they have seasonal lifeguards.
Dog-friendly:	No seasonal ban, but all dogs must be on a leash.
Facilities:	Has toiletcarpark
Other features:	Best beach for swimming Ideal for a family day on the beach Plenty of coastal wildlife animals
Blue-Flag Status	Yes

11. Silver Strand Beach

Silver Strand Beach Donegal (aka Malin Beg) is one of the numerous beaches in Donegal that will spellbind you with its natural beauty.

The sand and water of Malin Beg Donegal Beach are probably off-limits to those with limited mobility (i.e., wheelchair users), as the only way to access this marvelous beach is by taking 174-step stairs down to the beach below. 

Alternatively, there is a nearby parking lot that provides a perfect view of the bay. In fact, Silver Strand Donegal beach is the best place to go for a coastal walk.

Here’s what you need to know:

Location:	Malin Beg (59 km west of Donegal Town)
Carpark:	limited parking
Safety:	No lifeguards.
Dog-friendly:	No seasonal ban, but all dogs must be on a leash
Facilities:	N/A
Other features:	Ideal for beach strolling
Blue-Flag Status	No

Best Peaceful & Hidden Beaches In Donegal

If you are an introvert and prefer to have a quiet moment in nature, then discover these top 10 beaches in Donegal that are peaceful and perfect for your introverted soul.

You best bay-lieve that there are plenty more great beaches that Donegal has to offer! 

12. Stroove Beach

If you’re nearby North Inishowen, be sure to check out  Stroove Beach, a horseshoe-shaped bay beach on the hilly Inishowen Peninsula, which is also one of the most popular beaches in Donegal for swimming and coastal walks. 

The stroove beach is also home to a lighthouse, which was constructed in 1837, with plenty of parking space and a path that leads directly to the beach. 

There are some nearby restaurants, bars, and hotels within walking distance of the beach, but the closest town is Greencastle Inishowen, located a little over a mile south along the coastal road.

Here’s what you need to know:

Location:	Stroove (109 km northeast of Donegal Town)
Carpark:	Yes
Safety:	Yes, they have seasonal lifeguards.
Dog-friendly:	No seasonal ban, but all dogs must be on a leash
Facilities:	Has picnic benches
Other features:	Popular amongst family Ideal for swimming & paddling Nearby Inishowen Head Lighthouse (2-minute drive)
Blue-Flag Status	Yes

13. Kinnagoe Bay

The Inishowen Peninsula is home to Kinnagoe Bay Donegal, a well-protected cove with stunning scenery and a sense of seclusion.

Kinnego Bay Donegal is truly a stunning and one-of-a-kind destination because of its golden beach and surrounding forested hills. The amazing views of the bay can be seen from the car as you drive down the winding road.

If you’re feeling a bit adventurous, be sure to visit here for a diving trip as you get to explore the wreckage of one of the 130 ships of the Spanish Armada; La Trinidad Valencera, which sank in September 16, 1588.

Here’s what you need to know:

Location:	Glenagivney (111 km northwest of Donegal Town)
Carpark:	Limited parking
Safety:	No lifeguards.
Dog-friendly:	Yes
Facilities:	Has steep stairs
Other features:	Camping allowed Home to the shipwreck of La Trinidad Valencera No mobility-friendly access to direct beach
Blue-Flag Status	No

14. Dooey Beach

This stunning long beach of Dooey Beach Donegal is perfect for those with small children because of its gradual coastal decline to the beach. It is surrounded by beautiful sandy dunes and crystal clear water.

Despite the fact that it is a quiet beach, it still has several basic amenities for fellow beachgoers, such as a car park and portable toilets.

It’s not a surprise that this beach can easily be one of the best-hidden beaches in Donegal, Ireland. 

Here’s what you need to know:

Location:	Dirlaught (47.6 km northwest of Donegal Town)
Carpark:	Yes
Safety:	No lifeguards
Dog-friendly:	No seasonal ban, but all dogs must be on a leash
Facilities:	Parking Portable toilets
Other features:	Popular for its sand dunes Ideal for swimming & surfing
Blue-Flag Status	No

15. Tramore Beach

Take a drive to Tramore Beach, where you will be blessed with some of Ireland’s most beautiful sand dunes, rock formations, and a wide sandy beach. 

Regardless of the weather, this northwest beach still holds its place as one of the most beautiful beaches in Donegal. 

One of the best parts about this beach is that it is near the Tramore campervan site, which is a great option, especially for those who prefer to camp by the beach and enjoy the coastal view of Tramore Beach. 

Here’s what you need to know:

Location:	Castlebane (40 km northwest of Donegal Town)
Carpark:	Yes
Safety:	No life
Dog-friendly:	Yes
Facilities:	Carpark
Other features:	Popular amongst family Ideal for strolling Nearby Tramore caravan camping park
Blue-Flag Status	No

16. Tullagh Strand Beach

Just 3km (1.8 miles) to the northwest of Clonmany Village is the lovely horseshoe-shaped beach of Tullagh Strand Bay. It is truly one of Donegal’s best-kept natural jewels. 

In this curving bay, the ocean is calm and transparent, and there are miles of soft, white sand beaches. 

There’s even a parking area with enough space and a sandy walk that is easily accessible.

The beach in Tullagh Bay is a great place to go swimming or horseback riding. Bring along some snorkeling gear as you may see a few coastal fish such as flounder,  dab, and whiting near the coast of Tullagh Strand, Ireland.

This horseshoe-shaped bay is also not too far from one of Donegal’s iconic waterfalls, Glenevin Waterfall (one of the best natural attractions in Donegal!)

Here’s what you need to know:

Location:	Crossconnell (103 km northeast of Donegal Town)
Carpark:	Yes
Safety:	No lifeguards
Dog-friendly:	Yes
Facilities:	Parking
Other features:	Popular amongst family Ideal for strolling Nearby Glenevin Waterfall (5-minute drive) Nearby Binion Bay Caravan & Camping Facility
Blue-Flag Status	No

17. St John’s Point Beach

Just outside the town of Dunkineely, south Donegal, lies 11km (7 miles) of one of the longest peninsulas in Ireland; St. John’s Point, with almost-pink like sand, making it one of the most unique beaches near Donegal town.

The peninsula’s tip is a short walk from the shore, and it rewards visitors with breathtaking panoramas over Donegal Bay, McSwynes Bay, the fishing town of Killybegs, and the surrounding countryside. 

If you’re lucky, you might catch a glimpse of divers flocking near the area of St. John’s Point lighthouse because it has been called “some of the purest diving seas in Europe.”

Here’s what you need to know:

Location:	Ballyederland (27 km west of Donegal Town)
Carpark:	Yes, limited
Safety:	No lifeguards
Dog-friendly:	No seasonal ban, but all dogs must be on a leash
Facilities:	N/A
Other features:	Ideal for diving & fishing Nearby Cassan Sound (a fishing pier) & St John’s Point Lighthouse.
Blue-Flag Status	No

18. Muckros Bay Beach

Here’s another fantastic beach with a breathtaking view of two stunning sandy beaches, clifftop treks, and intriguing Neolithic ruins. 

Muckross Bay, located at the foot of Muckross Hill is renowned for its picturesque setting, its twin beaches, and its towering sea cliffs. The peculiar horizontal rock layers on the skinny peninsula make it a popular climbing destination.

There is a white stone formation in the shape of the word “EIRE” (Irish word for Ireland) at the edge of the cliff, which is one of the many signs placed during World War II to alert pilots to the fact that they were flying over neutral territory.

Here’s what you need to know:

Location:	Muckross (38 km west of Donegal Town)
Carpark:	Yes
Safety:	No lifeguards
Dog-friendly:	No seasonal ban, but all dogs must be on a leash
Facilities:	N/A
Other features:	Ideal for cliff strolling Nearby Eire (2-minute drive)
Blue-Flag Status	No

19. Killahoey Beach

County Donegal’s northern shore is home to Killahoey “Blue Flag” Beach (Tra na Cille), which is not far from the town of Dunfanaghy. 

Despite the fact that it is an open beach, which makes it susceptible to strong winds, this beach continues to attract many families and enthusiasts of water activities like swimming, surfing, kiteboarding, and more.

Hence, it’s no surprise that Killahoey Beach is recognized as one of the few “blue flag” beaches in Donegal.

Here’s what you need to know:

Location:	Dunfanaghy (83km north of Donegal Town)
Carpark:	Yes
Safety:	Yes, they have seasonal lifeguards.
Dog-friendly:	No seasonal ban, but all dogs must be on a leash
Facilities:	Has toilet Parking spot
Other features:	Popular amongst family Plenty of water-based activities  Nice place to go for bird watching
Blue-Flag Status	Yes

20. Downings Beach

Located on the Rosguill Peninsula in Donegal, Downings Beach is named after the nearby community of Downings. 

This blue flag beach faces Sheephaven Bay, so it’s protected from wind and waves, making it perfect for swimming and other water activities.

With all the facilities necessary for a fun day at the beach with the kids, it also has seasonal lifeguards during the warmer months to be on the lookout for young children who are swimming near the shores.

Here’s what you need to know:

Location:	Irska (80 km Northwest of Donegal Town)
Carpark:	Yes
Safety:	Yes, they have seasonal lifeguards.
Dog-friendly:	No seasonal ban, but all dogs must be on a leash.
Facilities:	Toilet
Other features:	Popular amongst family Ideal for swimming & surfing Nearby Sheskimore Nature Reserve for Hiking
Blue-Flag Status	Yes

21.  Maghery Beach 

Maghery beach is one of the most fantastic sandy beaches with delicate white sands and turquoise-colored water that will certainly leave a lasting memory for you and your loved ones when you visit.

It is one of the most relaxing and peaceful beaches in Donegal, where everyone can find a perfect spot to relax. There’s even a nearby cafe to enjoy!

Despite the fact that this is a less popular beach, there are still plenty of water activities you can do here, such as:

• Kayaking
• Rock climbing
• Surfing
• Paddle boarding

Here’s what you need to know:

Location:	Maghery (62.8km northwest of Donegal Town)
Carpark:	Yes
Safety:	Yes, they have seasonal lifeguards.
Dog-friendly:	No seasonal ban, but all dogs must be on a leash
Facilities:	Has toilet
Other features:	Popular amongst water-based activities Nearby Maghery Coastal adventures (adventure sports)
Blue-Flag Status	No

22. Moville Shore Beach

Here’s another, less popular, but one of Donegal’s blue flag beaches that sits near the Inishowen Peninsula.

This is one of the scenic beaches in Donegal that is perfect for a coastal walk. What we do like is that it is also near Inish adventures (the best spot for kayaking; one of the best things to do in Donegal!) 

Those who have visited this beach may get the chance to see natural wildlife such as dolphins and seals near the Movile Shore too!

Here’s what you need to know:

Location:	Moville (101 km northeast of Donegal Town)
Carpark:	Limited car park
Safety:	No
Dog-friendly:	No seasonal ban, but all dogs must be on a leash
Facilities:	Has toilet
Other features:	Popular amongst family Ideal for a coastal stroll Nearby Inish adventures
Blue-Flag Status	No

23. Carrickfinn Beach

Last but certainly not least, one of the last blue flag beaches in Donegal on this list; is Carrickfinn Beach, which is a long stretch of sand and dunes near Annagry, one of Donegal’s Gaeltacht towns.

Gaeltacht: a specific region in Ireland where locals speak the Irish language of Gaeilge. So far, there are only 7 out of 26 counties that are Gaeltacht.

This beach is located less than a mile (1.6km) away from Donegal Airport and is only 2 minute’s walk. So, it is easily one of the nearest beaches to stroll once you’ve arrived in Donegal by flight.

Here’s what you need to know:

Location:	Carrickfinn (70 km northwest of Donegal Town)
Carpark:	Yes
Safety:	Yes, they have seasonal lifeguards.
Dog-friendly:	No seasonal ban, but all dogs must be on a leash
Facilities:	Has portable toilet
Other features:	Popular amongst family Ideal for swimming & surfing Nearest beach to Donegal Airport
Blue-Flag Status	Yes

Sun’s out, pun’s out. There you have it, the 23 best beaches in Donegal! 

The Best Of The Best – 12 Blue Flag Beaches Of Donegal

Blue Flag Beach = One of the world’s most recognized voluntary awards for beaches, marinas, and sustainable boating tourism operators. 

If a beach has a Blue-Flag status, it means that the beach has qualified as a world-class beach. This is mainly due to its strict criteria (where a team of specialists will inspect the beach’s water quality, facilities management, and many more).

So, if you’re looking for the best Blue Flag beaches in Donegal, Ireland, then be sure to see these 12 beaches:

• Narin/Portnoon Beach
• Bundoran Beach
• Rossnowlagh Beach
• Murvagh Beach
• Fintra Beach
• Portsalon Beach
• Marble Hill Beach 
• Culdaff Bay
• Killahoey Beach
• Downings Beach
• Stroove Beach
• Carrcikfinn Beach

Fun Items To Bring For A Beach Trip That Are Irish-weather Friendly

You have to take the Irish weather into account when you plan for a day on the beach, as it can get pretty drizzly and chilly since Donegal is located in the north-west of Ireland!

With its temperature typically varying from 37°F (2.7°C) to 64°F (17.7°C), it is certainly not your typical sunny day on a beach but it can shore-ly be great weather to get that vitamin D tan.

If you want to enjoy Donegal beaches during their warm season, then visit these beaches from June until September!

Easy Beach Items Checklist

In short, these are some of the best items that you can bring when you visit any beach in Donegal:

• Waterproof windbreaker jacket
• Long sleeve with sun UV protection of SPF 50+ shirt
• Sunblock cream
• Bring a waterproof beach bag with a mesh bag to filter out sand.
• Fun, vibrant beach toys to build sand castles
• Talcum powder (best hacks to remove sand in between your toes or clothes)

Best Hotels To Stay Near Beach In Donegal

After spending a full fun day in the sun, there’s plenty of accommodation nearby beaches in Donegal. 

We’ve made a few best hotels near the beach in Donegal, which is near Rossnowlagh beach. 

Budget-friendly Hotel: The Bridges Guest Houses

This affordable guest house is the perfect choice for those who want to stay inside Donegal Town and its beach on a budget, as it is only a 3-minute walk away from Donegal Castle. 

Best-of-both-worlds Hotel: The Bee Pods

This unpretentious bed and breakfast is without a doubt among the ideal places to stay, particularly for families, since the innkeeper has numerous rooms available for their use. Be sure to try one of their special seaweed baths (which will tickle and surprise your skin!)

Luxury Hotel: The Sandhouse Hotel & Marine Spa

Overlooking Donegal Bay, this 4-star upscale hotel is only 11.3 km from Ballyshannon and 11.3 km from Donegal Golf Club. What we do love about this pet-friendly luxury hotel is that it has plenty of facilities, such as an in-house spa, a kid’s playroom, and many more.

FAQs on Beaches in Donegal 

What’s The Nicest Beach in Donegal?

The nicest beaches in Donegal can be found in these top 10 best beaches in County Donegal:

• Bundoran Beach
• Carrcikfinn Beach
• Culdaff Bay
• Downings Beach
• Fintra Beach
• Marble Hill Beach 
• Narin/Portnoon Beach
• Portsalon Beach
• Rossnowlagh Beach
• Stroove Beach

How Many Beaches Are There In Donegal?

There are over 100 beaches in beautiful Donegal that you can choose to swim or surf in. If you’re looking for some surfing-friendly beaches in Donegal, then be sure to surf near Donegal Bay, especially for beaches near Bundoran, Rossnowlagh, and even Mullaghmore. 

If you’re looking for a more secluded beach with stunning cliff views, then you’ll surely find such beaches in some of the northwest parts of Northern Ireland, near Dungloe and Dunfanaghy.

 Conclusively, Donegal has all sorts of beaches that are perfect for everyone.  

How Far Is Donegal Town From A Beach?

Donegal Town is only located around 5 kilometers from the coast and offers a wide variety of amenities that are convenient for beachgoers, such as car parks, toilets, and wheelchair-friendly amenities. 

They even have several cafes and restaurants to dine in, making it one of the best towns in Ireland that is beach-friendly. 

Plus, beaches near Donegal Bay are mostly family-friendly, especially during summer as they stretch over pearly sands and blue waves. 

With all these 23 beaches in Donegal, it is definitely one of the best things to do in Donegal when visiting (especially for those who love the beach).

You have the option to explore the bustling, popular beaches or perhaps wind down at some of the secluded beaches on this list. Ultimately, the choice is yours to make.

If you’re feeling a bit adventurous, check out my other article where you can explore the 11 best spots for diving in Donegal. (You’d be surprised; there are a lot of sunken ships to explore!)

Do share this list with your loved ones if they’re also planning to go up to Donegal or nearby parts of Northern Ireland. 

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