Velvet Strand, Portmarnock
About Velvet Strand, Portmarnock
The Velvet Strand at Portmarnock is a magnificent Blue Flag beach on the north Dublin coast, a five-kilometre sweep of fine golden sand with views to Ireland's Eye and Lambay Island. Lifeguarded in summer with free parking, it is a long-standing favourite for swimming, walking and watersports. It also holds a remarkable place in aviation history: in June 1930 the Australian aviator Charles Kingsford Smith took off from this strand in the 'Southern Cross' on the first successful east-to-west transatlantic flight, reaching Newfoundland, and in August 1932 Jim Mollison left the same sands in 'The Heart's Content' to make the first solo east-to-west Atlantic crossing. A commemorative monument marks the spot.
Nearby beaches
The flat coastal path links Portmarnock with Malahide and its rock-swimming spots.
Get directions to the car park
This opens the verified car-park pin — never the beach itself or a mid-route point.
📍 Get directions to the car park
Pin confirmed at 53.4305, -6.1085. Always verify the car park on arrival — access can change.
Map
Verified car-park pin.
Activity suitability
- Surfing — Beginner
- Walking — Long walk (3km+)
- Lifeguard (summer) — Yes
- Not yet confirmed: Swimming
Facilities
- Toilets — Yes
- Car park — Free
- Lifeguard — Yes
- Not yet confirmed: Disabled access, Shower, Café nearby
Facilities confirmed from the relevant local authority and Fáilte Ireland Source.
Water quality
EPA classification: Excellent (latest annual bathing-water assessment). Always check beaches.ie for the current rating.
Where to stay nearby
Search accommodation near Velvet Strand, Portmarnock
Verified local listings for Dublin are coming as we build out our accommodation guide.
Nearby golf
From the GolfIreland.ie network. Distances are straight-line (as the crow flies), not driving distance.