One of the most undiscovered – even by local Dublin people – this spot is one of my favourite getaways in this small but vibrant city. I love the sea and northern type of beaches and appreciate the uniqueness of Shelley Banks beach, i.e. its isolation from the city centre and it having – wait for it! – some of the best water quality around. Isn’t it surprising, considering that the location is very central and is next to the Dublin Port?

I am a hobby hiker, but after a couple of walking trips to Poolbeg near South Bull Wall (which is the name of the area) even I have to admit that it would be handy to have a car to get there. After that it is highly enjoyable to spend a couple of hours at the beach with either low or high tide, or even walk to Poolbeg Lighthouse at the end of the pier. Please note that it can get very windy during a walk on the pier and it is better to bring warm clothes – ideally waterproof, in case it starts raining.

In case you are an adventurer and walk to Shelley Banks – this is absolutely doable. Myself and my friend started our journey from the Science Gallery and it took us around 1.5 hours of a relaxing walk. Do not be put off by the “scenery” of Dublin Port – at the end it is totally worth it!