10 Amazing Donegal Beaches

County Donegal, located in the northwest of Ireland, is renowned for its stunning coastline and beautiful beaches. The county boasts some of the most picturesque and unspoiled beaches in Ireland, with sandy stretches, rugged cliffs, and breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean. If you are a looking to explore some of the beaches Co. Dongeal have to offer, look no further; 

Kinnagoe Bay:
Kinnagoe Bay is a beautiful and secluded beach located on the Inishowen Peninsula. It boasts stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and is surrounded by dramatic cliffs.

Rossnowlagh Beach:
Located near the town of Ballyshannon, Rossnowlagh Beach is a long sandy beach popular for surfing, swimming, and long walks. It has a Blue Flag status, indicating its cleanliness and water quality.

Murder Hole Beach:
Murder Hole Beach, near Melmore Head on the Rosguill Peninsula, is a hidden gem accessible via a short hike. This secluded beach is known for its stunning natural beauty and dramatic cliffs.

Silver Strand Beach:
Silver Strand Beach, located near Glencolmcille in southwest Donegal, is a sheltered beach nestled between high cliffs. It's a picturesque spot for relaxation and beachcombing.

Narin Beach:
Narin Beach, near Portnoo, is a scenic Blue Flag beach with golden sands and views of Gweebarra Bay. It's a family-friendly beach ideal for swimming and picnicking.

Ballymastocker Bay:
Ballymastocker Bay, near Portsalon, is often cited as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. This horseshoe-shaped bay boasts pristine white sands and turquoise waters, perfect for sunbathing and water activities.

Carrickfinn Beach:
Carrickfinn Beach, located near Donegal Airport, offers stunning views of Arranmore Island and is known for its crystal-clear waters. It's a great spot for swimming and kite surfing.

Fintra Beach:
Fintra Beach, near Killybegs, is a scenic Blue Flag beach backed by sand dunes and cliffs. It's a popular spot for walking, surfing, and enjoying panoramic coastal views.

Portsalon Beach:
Portsalon Beach, situated on the Fanad Peninsula, is a wide sandy beach with dunes and views of Lough Swilly. It's perfect for beach activities and offers stunning sunset vistas.

Culdaff Beach:
Culdaff Beach, located in the Inishowen Peninsula, is a Blue Flag beach with golden sands and clear waters. It's a great spot for swimming, beach games, and exploring nearby coastal trails.

Hi Cathaoir, 

That's such a great list of beaches, and I wouldn't even know where to start... Actually, just kidding, I would want to visit them all! 

I have only visited Ireland's Atlantic coast a little bit further down south, in County Sligo. That's almost seven years ago now, but I still remember enjoying the endless walks along the beaches and actually also taking some surfing lessons there - and I absolutely loved it. 

What's your favourite activity on Donegal's beaches, and have you tried surfing there in the past? 

A wonderful list of Donegal Beaches!

Another one that I would add to the list would be Pollan Bay. 🏖️

From the village of Ballyliffin, take the road down to Pollan Strand and enjoy some wonderful golden sand beyond the stoney erosion protection stretch. 

Plenty of waves to enjoy some surfing or body boarding as you look out towards Malin Head and Glashedy Rock. The small car park is popular for campervans/motorhomes at night and there is a handy play park for the wee ones too!

GoVisit Inishowen have a list of some favourites as well.

Donegal was home for a short time and I had the opportunity to visit some beaches with breathtaking landscapes and quite isolated.  Among them I would like to mention lesser known ones such as:

Tra na Rossan: 
located near Downings, it is a beautiful sandy beach surrounded by rugged cliffs. It is a great place for a quiet walk or picnic with a view of the Atlantic Ocean.

Maghera Beach:
near Assaranca Waterfall, is known for its spectacular coastline and caves. After parking, walk about 200 meters into the dunes and you will find a beautiful sight. It is a bit off the beaten path, but definitely worth a visit for its unique landscape.

These lesser-known beaches in Donegal offer tranquillità and natural beauty, providing a peaceful escape from the crowds. Enjoy exploring the rugged coastline of this county!

Some great additions to the list, with some hidden gems pointed out. 

My personal favorite would have to be Kinnagoe Bay Beach, which is notable for the shipwreck of the Spanish Armada galleon, La Trinidad Valencera, which sank here in 1588. The wreck was discovered in 1971. The beach features fine, golden sand that stretches along the coastline in a gentle crescent shape surrounded by lush green dramatic cliffs. 

Here I am from the viewing point in my VW '71 Campervan several years ago.