Beach Hotels Ireland: 22 Stunning Hotels By The Sea For A Breezy Break

When it comes to beautiful beach hotels Ireland has plenty, with a mix of pocket-friendly stays and luxury getaways on offer.

Some, like the Cliff House in Waterford, offer glorious ocean views throughout their property while others, like Slieve Donard in Down, boast pools that overlook the sea.

In the guide below, you’ll find the best coastal hotels Ireland has to offer, with a little bit of something to suit most budgets.

What we think are the best beach hotels Ireland has to offer

The first section of our guide is packed with what we think are the best beach hotels by the sea in Ireland. These are places that one or more of our team have stayed in.

Note: if you book a stay through one of the links below we may make a tiny commission that helps us keep this site going. You won’t pay extra, but we really do appreciate it.

1. The Armada Hotel (Clare)

The Armada Hotel is a family-friendly hotel located in Spanish Point in West Clare. They’ve been welcoming guests for over 50 years and the hotel really is something else.

The Armada’s beachfront location is ideal for both adventure seekers and those looking to relax. You can head down to Spanish Point Beach for a surf or White Strand for kayaking.

The hotel offers stunning sea views from many of its rooms and also from it’s restaurant. On summer days, there’s also outdoor seating that overlooks the ocean.

2. Dunmore House Hotel (Cork)

You’ll find Dunmore House on the shores of Clonakilty Bay in County Cork, where they’ve been treating guests to breaks by the sea since 1948. 

The hotel boasts 30 bedrooms, each of which is decked-out with gorgeous handmade furnishings, organic products and Irish cashmere rugs. Many of the rooms here command breathtaking views of the sea (especially the glorious Superior Oceanview Room).

The hotel also boasts a 9-hole golf course, to enjoy a round or two. Or you can simply soak up the sea views in private, with many of the double rooms offering windows overlooking the water. This is one of our favourite beach hotels in Ireland for good reason!

3. Sandhouse Hotel (Donegal)

Another of the more popular hotels by the sea in Ireland is the brilliant Sandhouse Hotel. This is a 4-star hotel that’s finely plonked right on Donegal Bay.

The hotel overlooks the beautiful Blue Flag Rossnowlagh Beach, with stunning views to be had from the restaurant and the deluxe rooms (see photos above).

The hotel has plenty to offer apart from its beachfront access, with a fine food restaurant, classic cocktail bar, sports bar and luxury spa all onsite for the perfect retreat. 

4. Inchydoney Island Lodge (Cork)

Right on the edge of Inchydoney Beach, this upscale hotel is located just outside of Clonakilty in County Cork. The lodge and spa is a popular choice amongst couples looking for a relaxing getaway, with an award-winning restaurant and bar, spa facilities and sea views from some of the rooms.

Whether you’re relaxing in the seawater therapy pool or tasting some of the local seafood specials at the restaurant, there’s very little reason to leave the beautiful hotel grounds.

However, within just a short drive you can reach plenty of other beaches, the bustling town of Clonakilty and Dunmore Golf Club, if you want to explore the area. This is one of the most popular coastal hotels in Ireland amongst couples.

5. Butler Arms Hotel (Kerry)

Dating back to 1884, this traditional Victorian era hotel overlooks the Atlantic Ocean in Waterville. With the ocean stretched out in front and Lough Currane just back from the hotel, you’ve some of County Kerry’s best scenery at your doorstep.

The stylish rooms offer either garden or ocean views, with a seafood restaurant and cosy bar onsite for relaxing after a day spent driving the Ring of Skellig.

The town of Waterville is one of the most overlooked in Kerry and it’s a mighty base to explore the Kingdom from, especially if you’d like to opt for a non-touristy base.

Luxury hotels by the sea in Ireland

The second section of our guide is filled with luxury coastal hotels in Ireland, with a bit of something to tickle most fancies.

Below, you’ll find everywhere from the Shandon and the Cliff House to some of the swankiest beach hotels Ireland has to offer.

1. The Cliff House Hotel (Waterford)

This classy hotel is located on the coast at Ardmore in County Waterford and it’s one of the most luxurious hotels in Ireland. Visitors here can expect world class service, a stunning location and top-notch design.

The Cliff House looks right out over the ocean and features boutique style rooms, a Michelin Star restaurant and onsite spa facilities (the pool faces out to sea!). 

Each room has a private balcony or terrace so you can enjoy the coastal views in complete privacy. For a bit of classy relaxation, you can choose between the outdoor seaweed bath, hot tub or large pool overlooking the sea.

2. Shandon Hotel & Spa (Donegal)

Another of the swankier beach hotels in Ireland is the Shandon Hotel, which overlooks the beautiful Sheephaven Bay near Dunfanaghy in County Donegal.

It’s in an incredible location with some of the best beaches in Donegal within easy reach, including Marble Hill Strand, Killahoey Beach and Tramore.

The Shandon screams elegance, with spacious rooms offering sea views, an outdoor Canadian hot tub overlooking the bay, onsite luxury thermal spa and a brilliant restaurant and bar.

If you’re looking for coastal hotels in Ireland that offer seclusion and solitude and that treat you to glorious sea views, get yourself here.

3. Mulranny Park Hotel (Mayo)

Situated in a woodland estate overlooking Clew Bay and Croagh Patrick, the Mulranny Park Hotel is all about old world elegance and luxury. Located on the Great Western Greenway, this hotel is the perfect base for your Mayo road trip!

The stylish hotel is just steps away from the Blue Flag Mulranny Beach, or you can enjoy a round at Mulranny Golf Course or even jump on the greenway for a cycle.

If you want to completely relax on the coast, the estate itself also boasts a 20-metre swimming pool, jacuzzi, plunge pool and waterfront bar and bistro.

4. Slieve Donard Hotel (Down)

Slieve Donard Hotel is a stunning Victorian era property set on a beautiful six-acre site right on the coast of Northern Ireland. Located between Newcastle Beach and Royal Country Down Golf Club, it’s the perfect place to head for a short break.

As a resort destination since 1898, it’s easily reached just south of Belfast. The property impresses from the moment you set food inside the estate, with its almost castle-like appearance and its vast grounds.

It offers a range of rooms, as well as an onsite award-winning spa with ESPA treatments. If you’re looking for luxury beach hotels in Ireland, the Slieve Donard is well worth considering.

5. The Salthouse Hotel (Antrim)

Set elevated above Ballycastle, The Salthouse House offers envious ocean views from a quiet position a short spin from Ballycastle Beach.

Although this boutique hotel has just 24 rooms (many of which offer sea or countryside views), it’s the perfect example of quality over quantity.

There’s an on-site spa (you can soak up views from the hot tub!) and when it comes to dinner and drinks, the on-site restaurant boasts the best views in the house.

6. Trump International Golf Links & Hotel (Clare)

The upscale Trump International, which overlooks the Atlantic and the quiet Dough Mor Beach, is one of the most luxurious beach hotels in Ireland. The luxurious rooms include marble bathrooms with rainfall showers, with some suites offering fireplaces and self-catering options.

However, you’ll want to enjoy at least one meal at the onsite restaurant, serving upmarket pub-style meals as well as fine dining cuisine all with a backdrop of the ocean. There’s also a very popular golf course along with spa facilities.

Family friendly coastal hotels in Ireland

The next section of our guide is filled with family friendly seaside hotels in Ireland, and there’s some stunning spots to choose from.

Below, you’ll find everywhere from the Galway Bay and Kelly’s to some pocket-friendly coastal hotels in Ireland.

1. Quality Hotel (Cork)

An all-round beauty of a family friendly hotel in County Cork, Quality Hotel Youghal is located right on Redbarn’s Blue Flag Beach. It’s the perfect base to explore the wonders of East Cork and there’s some stunning views from the property.

You can enjoy the quiet Redbarn Beach from your doorstep or head a few minutes up to Youghal for the long stretch of sand in front of town. The modern resort features rooms with sea views and plenty of family options including up to 4-bedroom cottages with self-catering facilities.

For the kids, there’s the kids club and indoor pool, if you can tear them away from Redbarn Beach, plus an onsite beachfront restaurant and bar to kick back in the evening.

2. Kelly’s Resort Hotel & Spa (Wexford)

Kelly’s is arguably the best of the many family hotels in Ireland. You’ll find it right on Rosslare’s waterfront, backing straight onto the sand, so you don’t have to go very far to enjoy the beach.

The resort complex has a full array of amenities and facilities, from a gym and tennis courts to mini-golf, two pools, a jacuzzi, day spa, three restaurants, and a seaside deck area.

The family friendly facilities include huge suites and adjoining rooms, as well as a daily kid’s program to keep them entertained. If you’re looking for seaside hotels in Ireland that excel in every way imaginable, get yourself to Kelly’s!

3. Galway Bay Hotel (Galway)

There are few beach hotels in Ireland with views like the Galway Bay. And, if you’d like to combine a city and coastal break, the Galway Bay Hotel is hard to beat! It’s located right on Salthill promenade overlooking Galway Bay.

You can easily walk down to the ocean from your room, with a sandy beach just steps away. This popular hotel is home to spacious rooms, a restaurant, bar, indoor pool, gym, spa and sauna for complete relaxation.

There’s also heaps of pubs and restaurants a stone’s throw from the property or you can always take a 5-minute taxi into Galway City.

4. The Haven Hotel Dunmore East (Waterford)

For a more quaint escape, the Haven Hotel in Dunmore East is a beautiful place to stay in County Waterford. Located a 3-minute walk from Lawler’s Beach and the local sailing club, this hotel commends some glorious ocean views.

The hotel is known for its outstanding dining, serving local produce and playing live music throughout the year in the outdoor garden and patio, when the weather permits.

The hotel has just 12 bedrooms in the main house and several offer sea views (check when you’re booking). There’s another 6 Garden Rooms right next to the main house.

5. Renvyle House Hotel & Resort (Galway)

Easily one of the most beautiful seaside hotels in Ireland, Renvyle House is an incredible place to stay in County Galway. This country house is situated on 150-acres of garden and parkland and boasts private beachfront access.

You can head directly down to Renvyle Beach, or explore some of the surrounding landscapes on the Connemara Loop. Some of the rooms feature incredible views across the Atlantic, Twelve Bens Mountains and Rusheenduff Lake. 

There’s also plenty of activities to enjoy within the grounds, including tennis courts, walking trails, outdoor swimming pool, croquet and clay pigeon shooting.

Often overlooked seaside hotels in Ireland

The final section of our guide is packed with some of the most overlooked beach hotels Ireland has to offer.

Below, you’ll find everywhere from the Ocean Sands and Bellbridge House to some very quirky coastal hotels in Ireland.

1. Aran Islands Hotel (Galway)

For something completely unique, a stay at the Aran Islands Hotel should definitely be on the cards. This traditional island hotel occupies a beautiful location overlooking the wild Atlantic Ocean. Located on Inis Mór, It’s the perfect base to explore the incredible Aran Islands.

The hotel is conveniently just a 5-minute walk from the Kilronan ferry terminal and 3km from the Inishmore Airport for connections to the mainland.

Here, you’ll find cabin-style rooms, some with beautiful sea views and balconies. You’ll also find an onsite pub with rustic interior and live music on weekends.

2. Portmarnock Hotel & Golf Links (Dublin)

When people talk about beach hotels in Ireland, their mind often strays to the Wild Atlantic Way. However, there’s some excellent seaside escapes in the capital, too.

Spanning across a 180-acre golf resort with landscaped gardens and direct beach access, you can’t go wrong with a stay at this incredible place.

Backing straight onto Portmarnock Beach, the resort boasts sea views, a lounge, a lively pub, a chic wellness spa and gym plus, of course the 18-hole golf course where you can enjoy a few rounds.

3. Ocean Sands Hotel (Sligo)

Located in Enniscrone in County Sligo, Ocean Sands Hotel is one of the better value hotels by the sea in Ireland. Sitting up on a hill overlooking the sea, you’ve got access to almost 5km of golden sand from the front door.

If you can, try and opt for the Oceanview Rooms which, unsurprisingly enough, offer glorious sea views. In the evening, you can kick back in the Ocean Bar or the excelent Dunes Restaurant.

The hotel is a great base to explore a good chunk of North Mayo, with Downpatrick Head and the Ceide Fields a short spin away.

4. Bellbridge House Hotel (Clare)

Overlooking Spanish Point Beach, Bellbridge House Hotel in West Clare is another of the more overlooked seaside hotels in Ireland.

Located right on the corner of the sandy beach, you can easily head down to the quiet end of the sand for a morning or evening stroll. It’s also just a 5-minute walk from the Spanish Point Golf Course.

Ideal for a weekend getaway, you’ll find top notch service and friendly staff at this boutique-style hotel. If you visit when the weather is fine, the onsite restaurant has outdoor tables offering incredible sea views.

5. Connemara Sands Beach Hotel (Galway)

Just a 10-minute drive from Clifden in County Galway, the Connemara Sands Beach Hotel is a long standing favourite for a completely relaxing escape on the Wild Atlantic Way. Located amongst the Twelve Bens range and right on the sandy shore of Mannin Bay, it has plenty of incredible scenery to enjoy nearby.

After a day down at the beach, the hotel also boasts a spa and restaurant to kick back and relax. You can opt for a range of treatments including massages, an organic seaweed spa and skin treatments at the onsite spa.

The dining options are all top-notch too, with a traditional Irish pub and farm to table menu, backed with incredible sea views.

6. Inishowen Gateway Hotel (Donegal)

And last but by no means least in our guide to the best hotels by the sea in Ireland is 3-star Inishowen Gateway Hotel in Buncrana. It makes the perfect base to explore the Inishowen Peninsula with plenty of spectacular coastal scenery nearby. 

You can easily walk down to Buncrana Beach (in front of the hotel) or drive further to Lisfannon Beach or Dunree Head. Some of the rooms along with the on-site restaurant feature incredible views over Lough Swilly which stretches out from the beach in front.

Some of the other amenities at the family friendly spot include a gym, a wellness spa, beauty treatments, an indoor swimming pool and a sauna.

FAQs about the best seaview hotels in Ireland