Forty Foot Dublin
Iconic Dublin bathing spot for year-round sea swims in the bracing Irish Sea. A true local tradition.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Always a swim happening!
Forty Foot Dublin
Best Time
Always a swim happening!

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic Dublin bathing spot for year-round sea swims in the bracing Irish Sea. A true local tradition.
"A dip in the Forty Foot is a bracing, unforgettable Dublin experience!"
🥶 Cold Water Confidence
Don't be scared of the cold! A quick dip is invigorating. Hot chocolate afterwards is highly recommended.
🧳 Leave Valuables Behind
No lockers here! Just outdoor benches. Trust the community vibe; theft is rare.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Iconic Forty Foot Swim
Sandycove
Take a refreshing plunge into the Irish Sea from this historic, rocky bathing spot. A true Dublin tradition!

Year-Round Community
Sandycove
Experience the lively atmosphere as locals brave the cold for a daily swim, regardless of the season.
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Chill: Cold Water Dip
Pack Smart for Your Swim
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🥶 Cold Water Confidence
Don't be scared of the cold! A quick dip is invigorating. Hot chocolate afterwards is highly recommended.
🧳 Leave Valuables Behind
No lockers here! Just outdoor benches. Trust the community vibe; theft is rare.
🌊 Check Webcam Before You Go
See the wave conditions before your 40-minute drive. Useful for planning your dip!
🏊♀️ Swim with the Locals
There's almost always someone swimming, even in winter. Join the year-round community!
Tips
from all over the internet
🥶 Cold Water Confidence
Don't be scared of the cold! A quick dip is invigorating. Hot chocolate afterwards is highly recommended.
🧳 Leave Valuables Behind
No lockers here! Just outdoor benches. Trust the community vibe; theft is rare.
🌊 Check Webcam Before You Go
See the wave conditions before your 40-minute drive. Useful for planning your dip!
🏊♀️ Swim with the Locals
There's almost always someone swimming, even in winter. Join the year-round community!
🧣 Bring Warm Gear
Essential for warming up after your swim. Layers are key for unpredictable Irish weather.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the invigorating, authentic experience of swimming at the Forty Foot, highlighting its year-round community and stunning coastal setting. While the cold water and basic facilities are part of its charm, some find it challenging. It's a beloved local tradition that offers a unique taste of Dublin life.
"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."
Kevin Pallotti
"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."
Pierre Louis Borthomieu
"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."
J S
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Forty Foot is located in Sandycove, south of Dublin. You can take the DART (Dublin Area Rapid Transit) train from the city centre to Sandycove station, which is a short walk from the bathing spot. Alternatively, several bus routes serve the area.
Parking can be challenging, especially during peak times. It's often easier to use public transport like the DART to avoid the hassle.
Many visitors opt for the DART train to Sandycove station, as it's a scenic and convenient route. Walking from the station takes about 10-15 minutes.
Yes, cycling is a great option. There are usually places to lock up bikes near the bathing area, but it's always wise to bring your own lock.
Absolutely! The DART train is the most popular and reliable public transport option, with Sandycove station being the closest stop.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, swimming at the Forty Foot is completely free! It's a public bathing spot enjoyed by locals and visitors alike.
The Forty Foot is accessible 24/7, as it's an open-air bathing area. However, it's best to visit during daylight hours for safety and visibility.
There is no entrance fee. The Forty Foot is a beloved public amenity, and access is free for everyone.
Yes, people swim at the Forty Foot year-round. While the water is coldest in winter, dedicated swimmers brave the elements even in January.
The main consideration is the cold water temperature. It's advisable to swim for short durations, especially if you're not accustomed to cold water. Always be aware of the sea conditions.
🎫 🏊♀️ Onsite Experience
There are no traditional changing rooms. You'll find outdoor benches against walls that offer some shelter for changing. It's more of an open-air changing area.
There are no lockers. It's best to leave valuables at home or with someone who isn't swimming. Most people leave their belongings on the benches, and theft is very rare.
The Forty Foot is generally safe, but always be mindful of the sea conditions, especially if you're not an experienced swimmer. There are usually other swimmers around for company and safety.
The water temperature varies significantly. In January, it can be as low as 8.6°C (47.5°F), while in October, it's still considered warm enough for swimming by many.
Typically, there are no lifeguards on duty at the Forty Foot. It's a natural bathing spot, and swimmers rely on each other for safety.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunrise and sunset offer beautiful light for dramatic shots of the coastline and swimmers. Midday can be bright but still offers great opportunities to capture the vibrant atmosphere.
You can capture stunning coastal landscapes, brave swimmers in action, and the unique community spirit. It's a very photogenic spot with dramatic cliffs and sea views.
The rocky ledges themselves offer great vantage points. The path leading down to the water also provides excellent perspectives of the entire bathing area.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive sea views. If you plan to photograph swimmers, a telephoto lens can be useful. A waterproof camera or phone case is advisable if you're close to the water.
Drone regulations can vary, and it's always best to check local bylaws before flying. However, many visitors capture stunning aerial shots of the coastline.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
❤️ Couples
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Culture of the Forty Foot
The Forty Foot is renowned for its year-round swimming community. Even on the coldest winter days, you'll find dedicated swimmers taking a dip. This resilience and commitment to the sea are a testament to the unique culture surrounding the spot. It's a place where people connect with nature and each other, regardless of the weather. The lack of formal facilities, like lockers or changing rooms, only adds to its rugged charm and the sense of shared experience.
Visiting the Forty Foot offers a glimpse into authentic Dublin life. It's a place where you can witness a cherished local tradition firsthand. Whether you're a seasoned cold-water swimmer or just curious, the experience is unforgettable. Remember to respect the environment and the local swimmers, and embrace the invigorating chill of the Irish Sea.
Preparing for Your Forty Foot Swim
When it comes to what to bring, pack light. There are no lockers or dedicated changing rooms. Instead, you'll find outdoor benches against walls that offer some shelter for changing. Therefore, it's best to leave valuables at home or with a friend who isn't swimming, as theft is extremely rare but still a possibility. Essential items include a towel, warm clothing to change into, and perhaps a waterproof bag for any essentials you must bring.
Finally, consider checking the local webcam before you make the journey, especially if you're driving a significant distance. Websites like afloat.ie offer live webcam feeds of the Dun Laoghaire/Sandycove area, allowing you to gauge the sea conditions and wave activity. This can help you decide if it's a good day for a swim and what to expect. Remember, the Forty Foot is a natural bathing spot, and while generally safe, awareness of the sea is always important.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit