Dollymount Strand Dunes

Dollymount Strand runs the length of North Bull Island, a sand spit in Dublin Bay off Clontarf. The main beach is used by swimmers, kite-surfers and dog walkers. The cruising happens in the marram-grass dunes further out towards the quieter northern end. It's a summer scene that's busiest on sunny afternoons, and you'll find almost nobody there on grey days. Walk across the old wooden bridge from Clontarf Road or drive over the causeway further north. Bull Island is a UNESCO biosphere reserve and bird sanctuary, so keep to sandy paths, stay out of fenced nesting areas and take your litter home. Public sex is an offence if someone witnesses it, so be discreet and move on if families are nearby.