Forty Foot

One of the best experiences I’ve had here! On the 1st of January (and anytime of the year I guess), the bravest come for a cold 9 degree dip. It’s easy to get changed since there are outdoor changing rooms. Very nice vibe — I highly recommend it, so much fun!

Total blast! It's cold, but, you'll acclimate quickly. No changing room. Any dry clothes will have to be swapped in under a towel! The whole experience is invigorating. Swim shirt and swim shoes recommended.

Fabulous evening at the 40 foot Sandycove. Great watching all the swimmers and taking in the sunset. Cute little beach when the tide is out. Area is very well maintained and there is some parking on the streets to be found when it isn’t too busy.

Are you an open water swimmer as we say in California? It’s “sea swimming” or “wild swimming” - best term- as it’s called here. This is an excellent swim hole. Water temp was around 60f , 15c, when I swam here in August. Very familiar temp , a bit warmer than the sf bay for August. Highly recommend this place for wild swimmers or those who just want a dip or a jump. East 25 min DART ride from Tara St station.

This is my go to place every time it is warm in Ireland. Full of people on weekends but you can find your place on the jumping part. There is steps and a ladder to clim back up. Places to seat and even showers. Definitely a good trip on a sunny day.

The best place to go for a swim. You can go either by bus or dart. Love the blue turquoise waters here.

I visited the Forty Foot purely because of its legendary status—and I’m glad I did. It’s a true deep-sea swimming spot, with dramatic rocks and cold, invigorating water that really lives up to the hype. What stood out to me most was the crowd. There are always a lot of people around, which made it feel a bit overcrowded at times, but also gave me a strange sense of safety and shared experience. Locals and tourists alike come here to swim year-round, and there’s a real sense of tradition and community. I went mainly to try it for myself, to see what the buzz was all about—and I can now say I understand the appeal. Definitely worth a visit if you’re in Dublin and want to step into something legendary.

Iconic swimming spot accessible by the DART from Dublin City centre. Steps and railings make it easy to enter the water for those who don't fancy diving. Sandycove beach is just around the headland when the water is too choppy for swimming.