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Dún Laoghaire (“dun leer-ee”) is a stone’s throw away from bustling Dublin. It’s home to Dún Laoghaire Harbor, Ireland‘s largest pleasure sailing base, making it a lovely place to watch various yachts and boats along East Pier on a nice day. Whether you’re spending a morning, afternoon, or evening in Dún Laoghaire, this quaint coastal suburb will help you escape the crowded streets of Dublin for a few hours while you breathe in the salty sea air.

How to Get There from Dublin

From Dublin, the DART (Dublin Area Rapid Transit) is the most direct way to reach Dún Laoghaire. The DART, the train which runs along the coastal area, is cost-effective and relatively fast. Simply catch the train going South towards Bray from Connolly Station in the City Centre and alight at the Dún Laoghaire stop. You can tap on and off using a LEAP Card, purchase a ticket at the counter, or buying a ticket by using the automated ticket machines. The seats on the DART are usually quite comfortable; try to snag a seat on the left side of the train so you can enjoy the ocean view on the way there.

Things to Do in Dún Laoghaire

• Walk through People’s Park: Take a nice walk through the local park, enjoying the well-manicured gardens and greenery.
• Visit the Farmers’ Market: This producer and crafter market takes place around the Lexicon, the seafront library, on Sundays. Here you’ll find local makers and artisans selling handmade items, breads, and more.
• Stroll along East Pier: Take a leisurely stroll along East Pier, gazing at the sail boats as you do so. Sit and relax on the rocks.
• Swim at Forty Foot: Dare to take a dip in the Irish Sea at Forty Foot, a nearby beach and swimming spot that is popular amongst locals and savvy tourists.

Where to Eat & Drink

You’ll probably get a bit peckish from all the walking you’ll do along the East Pier. For a more casual bite, order fish and chips from The Fish Shack. If you’re looking for a sit down meal, grab a table at Casper & Giumbini’s, which is located on the promenade at The Pavilion. They serve a variety of tasty Irish dishes, such as sautéed Atlantic prawns, roasted lamb, and Irish steaks. Popular pubs include O’Loughlin’s, O’Neill’s, and The Lighthouse while Scrumdiddly’s and Teddy’s are two well-known ice cream parlors.

No matter what you fill your time with, Dún Laoghaire is sure to be enjoyed by all!

Peace & happy travels,

Tay