
Forty Foot Sandycove Dublin
A historic Irish bathing spot with over 250 years of tradition, offering bracing sea swims and stunning views of Dublin Bay.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Embrace the bracing Irish Sea!

Forty Foot Sandycove Dublin
Best Time
Embrace the bracing Irish Sea!

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic Irish bathing spot with over 250 years of tradition, offering bracing sea swims and stunning views of Dublin Bay.
"Nice pub, fabulous outdoor area over looking the sea. Great prices for good food and beer."

🥶 Brace for Cold Water
The Irish Sea is famously chilly! Be prepared for a bracing swim, even in summer.
🏊♀️ All-Year-Round Swimming
Locals swim here 365 days a year, including Christmas Day!

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Historic Forty Foot Swim
Sandycove, County Dublin
Plunge into the icy Irish Sea at this iconic, centuries-old bathing spot. A true test of bravery and a local tradition!

Panoramic Sea Views
Promontory overlooking Dublin Bay
Soak in breathtaking vistas of the Irish Sea and Dublin Bay from this picturesque coastal location.

Christmas Day Swim Tradition
The Forty Foot
Witness or participate in the wild annual tradition of thousands plunging into the sea on Christmas Day.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Chill: A Dip in History
Beyond the Swim: Views and Vibes
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🥶 Brace for Cold Water
The Irish Sea is famously chilly! Be prepared for a bracing swim, even in summer.
🏊♀️ All-Year-Round Swimming
Locals swim here 365 days a year, including Christmas Day!
🌅 Sunset Swims are Magical
Experience a truly special swim with stunning sunset views over the water.
🍻 Post-Swim Refreshments
Enjoy great food and cheap pints with a fabulous sea view nearby.
Tips
from all over the internet
🥶 Brace for Cold Water
The Irish Sea is famously chilly! Be prepared for a bracing swim, even in summer.
🏊♀️ All-Year-Round Swimming
Locals swim here 365 days a year, including Christmas Day!
🌅 Sunset Swims are Magical
Experience a truly special swim with stunning sunset views over the water.
🍻 Post-Swim Refreshments
Enjoy great food and cheap pints with a fabulous sea view nearby.
📱 Scan to Order
Many nearby spots use QR codes for ordering; ensure your phone has service or ask for help.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Forty Foot for its stunning sea views and the invigorating, historic swimming experience. The nearby pubs are highlighted for their great atmosphere, reasonable prices, and lovely outdoor seating overlooking the water. Some minor drawbacks include potentially overcooked pasta and the QR code ordering system in some establishments.
"Nice pub, fabulous outdoor area over looking the sea. Great prices for good food and beer. Highly recommended. Lovely helpful staff. Don't miss it if you are nearby. Great table service also."
garry doyle
"Food just ok, price adequate to quality. Cocktails taste like syrup with soda but aperol really really nice and cheap. We got pasta Alfredo and pasta was overcooked but 3 platers for €18.50 so good and tasty. Overall it's nice spot with lovely view. I'll definitely come back."
M G
"I try to pop in here once a week. The staff are really sound. Good food and the Beamish is spot on. Does be a que at the bar but staff keeps it moving. A good crowd always there. Old and young. A beautiful spot."
Richard
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach the Forty Foot by taking the DART (Dublin Area Rapid Transit) train south from Dublin city center towards Greystones. Alight at Sandycove station, and it's a short walk to the bathing spot. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also available.
Parking can be limited in Sandycove, especially during peak times. It's often easier to use public transport like the DART.
While many enjoy swimming, the water can be deep and currents can be present. It's advisable to swim with others and be aware of your limits.
Early mornings on weekdays tend to be less crowded than weekends or holidays. The Christmas Day swim is exceptionally busy.
Access to the water's edge can be challenging due to steps and uneven terrain. It's best to check current conditions or visit during quieter times to assess accessibility.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, swimming at the Forty Foot is free and open to the public. It's a natural bathing spot.
The Forty Foot is accessible year-round, 24 hours a day, as it's an open natural bathing area.
Historically, the Forty Foot was a men-only bathing place with limited facilities. While there are no formal changing rooms, many swimmers change discreetly or use nearby facilities if available.
There is no entrance fee for the Forty Foot or the surrounding coastal path. Enjoy the views and the experience for free.
While there aren't official guided tours for swimming, local guides or historical walking tours might include information about the Forty Foot's history.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Bring your swimsuit, a towel, and perhaps a warm robe or change of clothes for after your swim. Many swimmers wear wetsuits in colder months.
Always swim with a buddy, be aware of the tides and currents, and don't swim alone if you're not a confident swimmer.
The Forty Foot has been a popular bathing spot for over 250 years, with a history of being a men-only area until protests led to inclusivity.
Yes, photography and videography are welcome. Many creators share stunning shots of the location and swimmers.
The water temperature varies significantly throughout the year, being coldest in winter and warmest in late summer. Expect it to be bracing!
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are several pubs and eateries in Sandycove with excellent sea views and outdoor seating.
You can find a range of options from pub grub like pasta and curry to lighter snacks and drinks.
Many establishments offer vegetarian options, and some may have vegan choices. It's best to check menus or ask staff.
Prices are generally considered adequate to good for the quality and location. You can find cheap pints and reasonably priced meals.
Some places offer table service, while others utilize QR code ordering systems.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunrise and sunset offer dramatic lighting for stunning photos. Midday can also be good for capturing the vibrant blue of the sea.
Photos of swimmers braving the cold, panoramic sea views, and the rugged coastline are very popular.
Drone usage may be subject to local regulations. It's advisable to check with local authorities before flying a drone in the area.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive sea views. A waterproof camera or phone case is useful if you plan to get close to the water.
Focus on the swimmers and the timeless nature of the bathing spot to convey its historical significance.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
❤️ Couples
🚶 Day-Trippers from Dublin
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Enduring Tradition of Sea Swimming
Social media content often highlights the sheer bravery and exhilaration of these swims, from everyday dips to the iconic Christmas Day plunge. The visual of people emerging from the icy water, often with smiles and a sense of accomplishment, is a powerful one. It speaks to resilience, a connection with nature, and a unique way of experiencing the Irish coastline. The Forty Foot embodies this spirit, offering a raw and invigorating connection to the sea that draws people back time and again.
Historical Significance and Evolution
Beyond its gender history, the Forty Foot represents a continuous link to past generations who also sought solace and invigoration in the sea. The promontory itself, jutting out into Dublin Bay, has been a natural playground and a place of recreation for centuries. The fact that it remains a popular and accessible spot today, without formal facilities or fees, speaks to its timeless appeal and the community's dedication to preserving this natural heritage.
Beyond the Swim: Culinary Delights with a View
The food offerings range from hearty pub fare, such as pasta dishes and curries, to more casual snacks and a good selection of drinks, including affordable pints. While some reviews mention ordering via QR codes, which might pose a challenge for those with limited phone service or Wi-Fi, the overall consensus is that the prices are adequate for the quality and the stunning location. The combination of delicious food, refreshing drinks, and the magnificent backdrop of Dublin Bay makes for a memorable experience.


Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit