Howth Marina Howth
A picturesque fishing village offering stunning cliff walks, a vibrant marina, and delicious seafood, just a short train ride from Dublin.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best views on the cliff walk
Howth Marina Howth
Best Time
Best views on the cliff walk
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A picturesque fishing village offering stunning cliff walks, a vibrant marina, and delicious seafood, just a short train ride from Dublin.
"Howth was the perfect little adventure for us girls, offering stunning views and great food."
🎯 Easy DART Access
Take the DART train from Dublin city center for a quick, scenic, and affordable ride to Howth.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The cliff walk can be uneven; sturdy footwear is a must for enjoying the trails.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Howth Cliff Walk
Howth Peninsula
Breathtaking coastal vistas, dramatic cliffs, and stunning sea views await on this iconic walk.
Howth Marina
Howth Harbour
A picturesque harbor filled with colorful boats, offering a lively atmosphere and great photo opportunities.
Seal Spotting
Howth Harbour
Watch playful seals, like the famous Sammy, often gather near the piers hoping for a fishy treat.
Fresh Seafood
Various restaurants and stalls
Indulge in delicious fish and chips or other fresh catches from the sea.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Coastal Charm
Getting There is Easy
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Easy DART Access
Take the DART train from Dublin city center for a quick, scenic, and affordable ride to Howth.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The cliff walk can be uneven; sturdy footwear is a must for enjoying the trails.
🎣 Watch for Seagulls!
Guard your fish and chips closely; the local seagulls are notorious for swooping in!
🦭 Visit Sammy the Seal
Head to the marina to spot Sammy and other seals often found lounging by the water.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Easy DART Access
Take the DART train from Dublin city center for a quick, scenic, and affordable ride to Howth.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The cliff walk can be uneven; sturdy footwear is a must for enjoying the trails.
🎣 Watch for Seagulls!
Guard your fish and chips closely; the local seagulls are notorious for swooping in!
🦭 Visit Sammy the Seal
Head to the marina to spot Sammy and other seals often found lounging by the water.
📸 Capture the Views
On a clear day, the panoramic views from the cliff walk are spectacular.
💨 Be Prepared for Wind
It can get breezy by the coast, so bring a light jacket or windbreaker.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Howth for its stunning coastal scenery, particularly the cliff walk, and its charming marina atmosphere. The abundance of fresh seafood, especially fish and chips, is a major highlight. While generally positive, some reviews mention occasional long waits for food and a less-than-ideal experience with a specific bartender regarding toilet access.
"Amazing quality food though we had wait for a little longer than expected but that's alright. The views from where we were sitting were nice, really recommend people going there.
However I wish the bartender to be a bit relaxed and polite; we needed to use the toilets before and after having a lovely dinner with one of the club members and who's also a work colleague, yet he (bartender) was tensed and said it's only for members, so we didn't understand the logic, does that mean we can order food without being allowed to wash our hands before eating the food? Eventually we were allowed in, but we thought it's a bit strange! Also, we were a group of 8 and he said this a couple of times to whoever went to the toilets room, we all spoke about it while there, I would say that's the only negative part of our experience."
Jamal Omar
"Lovely seaside town and nice friendly crew.
Thanks from all the crew at Stretch Tents Ireland for having us up for this year's regatta"
Jack Smiles
"Nice restaurant, perfect location ☘️"
Zarina Ismagulova
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The easiest way is to take the DART (Dublin Area Rapid Transit) train from Connolly, Tara Street, or Pearse Station. The journey takes about 30-45 minutes and offers scenic coastal views. +2
The DART is generally affordable. A return ticket from Dublin city center to Howth is a budget-friendly option for a day trip.
Yes, you can drive to Howth, but parking can be limited and challenging, especially during peak times. The DART is often a more convenient option.
The train journey from Dublin city center to Howth typically takes around 30 to 45 minutes. +1
Absolutely! Howth is a highly recommended day trip from Dublin, offering beautiful scenery, fresh seafood, and a charming seaside atmosphere. 
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Howth Cliff Walk is free to access. You can explore the trails at your own pace without any admission fees.
Howth Marina itself is a public area and does not have an entrance fee. You can stroll around and enjoy the views of the boats freely.
Howth is a village and a public area, so it's accessible at all times. However, individual shops, restaurants, and attractions will have their own operating hours.
Yes, there are various tours available, including boat trips to Ireland's Eye to see puffins (seasonal) and guided cliff walks.
Yes, Howth is perfect for a half-day trip or a quick visit, especially if you're short on time in Dublin.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can enjoy the Howth Cliff Walk, explore the marina, spot seals, indulge in fresh seafood, and browse local shops.
The cliff walk offers various routes, from easy strolls to more challenging paths. It's generally considered moderate, but some sections can be steep.
Yes, seals are frequently spotted in Howth Harbour, often near the piers, especially Sammy the seal.
The most stunning views are found along the Howth Cliff Walk, offering panoramic vistas of the coastline and Dublin Bay.
Howth is incredibly photogenic, with its colorful marina, dramatic cliffs, and charming village atmosphere.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Howth is famous for its fresh seafood, particularly fish and chips. Many restaurants and stalls offer delicious catches.
Popular spots include Octopussy's and other eateries along the pier. Be prepared for seagulls!
While seafood is prominent, many restaurants in Howth offer vegetarian dishes. It's always best to check menus or ask staff.
Prices can vary, but you can find affordable fish and chips from stalls, while sit-down restaurants may be moderately priced.
Yes, there are places in Howth that offer delicious gelato, perfect for a treat after a walk.
📸 📸 Photography
The Howth Cliff Walk, the marina with its boats, the lighthouse, and the colorful village streets are all prime photography locations.
Early morning or late afternoon/sunset often provide the best light for photography, with softer shadows and golden hues.
Yes, you can photograph the seals in Howth Harbour, but remember to keep a respectful distance and avoid disturbing them.
The Howth Lighthouse, the piers, and the dramatic cliff formations are iconic landmarks perfect for memorable photos.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive cliff views and marina scenes. A telephoto lens can be useful for spotting wildlife like puffins or seals from a distance.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Packing snacks and drinks is always a good idea, and be prepared for the seagulls if you opt for fish and chips – they are very bold! Many of the restaurants are accustomed to families, and the open spaces around the marina allow children to explore safely. Consider a boat trip to Ireland's Eye for a different kind of adventure.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers
There are plenty of opportunities to enjoy delicious seafood at your own pace, and the friendly atmosphere of the village makes it easy to feel comfortable. You can strike up conversations with locals or fellow travelers, or simply enjoy the solitude and the stunning coastal views.
💰 Budget Travelers
For food, opt for fish and chips from a takeaway stall rather than a sit-down restaurant. You can also pack your own picnic to enjoy with a view. Exploring the marina and enjoying the atmosphere are also free activities that make for a memorable visit.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Iconic Howth Cliff Walk
Many visitors recommend tackling the walk on a clear day to maximize the visual impact. Be prepared for changing weather conditions, as it can be windy and exposed. Comfortable walking shoes are essential, and a light jacket is advisable. The walk is a fantastic way to experience Ireland's natural beauty and get some fresh sea air.
For those interested in wildlife, keep an eye out for seabirds nesting on the cliffs. Boat tours also depart from the harbor, offering a different perspective of the coastline and the chance to see puffins during their nesting season (typically spring and summer).
Howth Marina: A Hub of Activity
+2One of the most charming aspects of the marina is the frequent presence of seals, particularly a resident named Sammy, who often comes close to the piers hoping for a handout. Spotting these playful creatures is a highlight for many visitors and a testament to the healthy marine ecosystem.
+1Adjacent to the marina, you'll find numerous restaurants and stalls serving up Howth's famous fresh seafood. It's the perfect spot to enjoy a classic fish and chips meal while watching the boats bobbing in the water. Just be mindful of the opportunistic seagulls!
Culinary Delights: Seafood and More
Beyond fish and chips, restaurants in Howth serve a variety of seafood dishes, including oysters, mussels, and locally caught fish prepared in diverse culinary styles. Many eateries boast stunning views over the marina, enhancing the dining experience.
While seafood is the star, Howth also offers other treats. You can find delightful gelato to cool down on a warmer day, and many cafes provide a cozy spot for coffee and pastries. The village has options to suit various tastes and budgets, making it a satisfying culinary stop.
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