A Guide To Tramore In Waterford: Things To Do, Hotels, Food, Pubs + More

The town of Tramore is one of the more popular places to visit in Waterford.

In fact, the lively seaside town of Tramore is one of the most popular resort towns on the southeast coast of Ireland, alongside nearby Dungarvan, Dunmore East and Ardmore.

The well-known 5km-long stretch of sand in front of town attracts crowds all summer long. However, Tramore is not just about the beach – plenty of great cafes, walking trails and nearby attractions make it a great spot for a weekend break. 

In the guide below, you’ll discover everything you need to know if you’re debating a visit to this peach of a town.

Some quick need-to-knows about Tramore

Although a visit to Tramore in Waterford is fairly straightforward, there’s a few quick chunks of information worth knowing in advance of your trip.

1. Location

You’ll find Tramore a 15-minute drive from Waterford City, a 20-minute drive from Dunmore East and a 40-minute drive from Dungarvan.

2. A great place to explore from

Tramore is a great place to base yourself while exploring the beautiful southeast coast. There are plenty of things to do in and around town to keep you busy for days. Some of the best places to visit in County Waterford are within easy reach, including other towns like Dungarvan, Ardmore and Bunmahon.

3. A big surfing destination

Tramore is a very popular surfing destination on the east coast of Ireland. While the sheltered bay does not always see consistent surf, it’s a great place for beginners who want to get on their feet. Tramore is also home to some well-established surfing schools, where you can hone your skills with an expert instructor.

About Tramore

Tramore is a vibrant seaside town in County Waterford. It was once a small fishing village but saw massive development once the railway arrived from Waterford City in 1853.

It’s long been considered a major tourist destination, being within close proximity to both Waterford City and Dublin. However, the beach is what draws the crowds with Tramore being most well-known for its beautiful 5km-stretch of sand dunes and calm water.

The Promenade was built in 1914 and has become the focus of much of the action in summer. The town is known for its great seaside activities, including swimming, surfing and fishing.

Surfing was introduced to the town by Irish surfing pioneer, Kevin Cavey, which has since taken off in popularity with many surf shops, schools and board manufacturers setting up in Tramore. 

Things to do in Tramore

We go into the various things to do in Tramore in detail in this guide, but we’ll give you a speedy overview of the different places to visit, below.

From the Doneraile Walk and the Metal Man to Newtown Cove and much, much more, there’s plenty to see and do close to Tramore.

1. Head for a stroll along Tramore Beach

The main reason people head to the town is for Tramore Beach, of course. The long 5km stretch of sand is one of the most popular resort destinations on the southeast coast of Ireland. Backed by sand dunes with impressive cliffs on either end, there’s plenty of room for everyone to spread out.

However, it gets pretty busy in summer with surfers, fishermen, swimmers and beach bums all heading down to the sand for some sun.

It’s best to head for a stroll along Tramore Beach early in the morning, well before the day trip crowds have arrived.

2. Discover the story behind the Metal Man

You’ll likely notice the Metal Man standing tall above Newtown Cove. This unique monument can be seen from long distances away and was constructed as a maritime beacon way back in 1816 after a tragic ship sinking. 

The British sailor statue is on private land, so you have to admire it from a distance, but, you can see it from virtually anywhere along the coast.

There are many myths and legends surrounding the statue since it was erected, including a guarantee to be married within a year if you hop backwards on one bare foot at its base! 

3. Head for a dip at Guillamene and Newtown Cove

If you’re a keen deep ocean swimmer, the two coves of Guillamene and Newtown are the perfect places for some serious swimming. You’ll see plenty of others out there, as it’s one of the best places to enjoy the clear water on the coast.

There’s easy access into the water with ladders and a slipway which is best at high tide. You’ll also find toilets and a large carpark here.

Just be aware of tide times, swell and wind forecasts before you decide to jump on in. See our Waterford beaches guide for more.

4. Tackle the Doneraile Walk

This great cliff top walk in Tramore is perfect for those looking to stretch their legs. The 2km long trail follows the coast overlooking the beach and Brownstown Head and is relatively easy for most fitness levels.

The views from the walk make it worthwhile, looking across to Newtown Cove and the Metal Man monument. You can start the walk to the south of town, just off Newtown Road.

5. Stretch the legs at Ballyscanlon Forest

If you’re keen for even more walking, Ballyscanlon Forest is just 6.5km west of Tramore. The forest and lake area is part of the Tramore Forest and is perfect if you want a break from the busy beach. 

The forest has a few walking trails from just a couple of kilometres up to 4km with plenty of unique flora and fauna to look out for along the way.

Facilities include a car park and picnic areas, for a post-walk picnic. See our Waterford walks guide for more.

Restaurants in Tramore

As you’ll discover in our guide to the best restaurants in Tramore, there’s plenty of great places for a bite to eat in the town. 

You’ll find three of our favourite spots below and you’ll find plenty more in our Tramore food guide.

1. Vee Bistro

As one of the town’s all-round favourite places to eat, Vee Bistro is a great place to head for breakfast or lunch from 8am onwards. The restaurant located in the main street of Tramore serves up classic dishes from big, cooked breakfast to fish and chips. There’s also vegetarian and gluten free options too.

2. Rack and Soul

For good old fashioned BBQ favourites, Rack and Soul is the place to go for a delicious feed. Serving up ribs, burgers, chicken wings and tasty fries, you should pay a visit prepared for a feast. Located just off the Promenade back from the beach, it’s ideal as a post-surf dinner in Tramore.

3. The Pier Café

If you’re looking for a relaxed café, The Pier is located on Newtown Road. Decorated in retro décor, this unique place serves delicious brunch options such as eggs Florentine and homemade pancakes. Or, you can enjoy a nice lunch here with salads and sandwiches on the menu.

Pubs in Tramore

There’s some excellent pubs in Tramore in Waterford, the best of which, in our opinion, is the brilliant Victoria House Bar.

During the summer months, you’ll find live music and mischief taking place in many of Tramore’s public houses. Below, you’ll find three of our favourite spots for a pint.

1. Victoria House Bar

Located right in the middle of town on Queen’s St, Victoria House Pub is a very popular bar and restaurant in Tramore. With a great atmosphere and a selection of craft beers, it’s definitely a great choice for a drink. It’s real highlight though is the roof top, where you can sit back with a pint and look out across the town and beach at sunset.

2. Raglan Road Traditional Irish Pub

In the heart of town, this traditional pub is the place to go to have a good meal and drink with your mates. The cosy wood fire is always warm, and the friendly staff add to the welcoming atmosphere. You might even be lucky enough to catch some of the live music played here on occasion. 

3. Croke’s Pub

Another place you’ll find in the middle of town, Croke’s Pub is a small, cosy place to head for a drink and chat with friends. It’s definitely a hidden gem, with a great atmosphere and friendly staff having been in the same family for generations. They often have live music, which is a favourite amongst the locals on weekends.

Accommodation in Tramore

Although we go into places to stay in the town in our Tramore hotels guide, you’ll find three of our favourite spots below.

Note: if you book a hotel 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. O’Shea’s Hotel

This traditional hotel is set right on the edge of the beach and in the middle of town, making it one of the best places to stay in Tramore. They have a range of en-suite rooms, from standard doubles up to family options to suit everyone. It’s also the home of Copper Room Restaurant and O’Shea’s Bar so you don’t have to stray far for a bite to eat.

Check prices + see more photos here

2. Beach Haven Apartments

Within an easy walk from the beach, these modern apartments are perfect for those looking to self-cater their trip. The studio apartments can sleep up to four guests with an en-suite bathroom, kitchenette, lounge area and free Wi-Fi available. You can either walk to the beach within a few minutes or drive to Waterford within 15-minutes from the property. 

Check prices + see more photos here

3. Majestic Hotel

The Majestic Hotel is definitely one of the more popular places to stay in Tramore. Located just a minute’s walk from the beach and right in the centre of all the action in town, you can easily enjoy your time at this hotel. They have stylish en-suite rooms, plus the Garden Room Restaurant and Lounge Bar onsite for meals and a post-surf drink.

Check prices + see more photos here

FAQs about visiting Tramore in Waterford

Since mentioning the town in a guide to Waterford that we published several years ago, we’ve had hundreds of emails asking various things about Tramore in Waterford.

In the section below, we’ve popped in the most FAQs that we’ve received. If you have a question that we haven’t tackled, ask away in the comments section below.

What are the best things to do in Tramore?

Tackle the Doneraile Walk. Head for a dip at Guillamene and Newtown Cove. Discover the story behind the Metal Man. Head for a stroll along Tramore Beach

Where are the best places to eat in Tramore?

You can’t go wrong with a visit to The Pier Café, Rack and Soul and/or The Vee Bistro.

What are the best places to stay in Tramore?

O’Shea’s Hotel, Beach Haven Apartments and Majestic Hotel are three solid options accommodation wise.