Your Guide to the Best Wild Swimming Spots

There’s nothing quite like plunging into a cool, crystal-clear lake or drifting through a sheltered cove with the open sky above you. Wild swimming has surged in popularity across Ireland, and it’s easy to see why – with its dramatic coastlines, tranquil loughs, and secluded rivers, the Emerald Isle is bursting with natural spots perfect for a refreshing dip.

Whether you’re chasing that post-swim glow or simply looking to escape the crowds, hiring a car gives you the freedom to explore some of Ireland’s most stunning swimming spots – many of which are tucked away well off the beaten track.

Lough Tay, County Wicklow

Nestled in the heart of the Wicklow Mountains, Lough Tay (also known as the Guinness Lake) is one of Ireland’s most photographed wild swimming locations—and for good reason. This crescent-shaped lake offers incredibly clear, dark waters surrounded by dramatic mountain peaks and a distinctive white sandy beach that creates a striking contrast against the deep water.

The lake sits just off the R759, about an hour’s drive south of Dublin, making it perfect for a day trip from the capital. There’s a small car park near the viewing point, though it fills up quickly during weekends, so arriving early is recommended. The water can be quite cold year-round, but the stunning scenery more than makes up for it. Take care on the steep paths leading down to the water’s edge, and remember this is private property, so please respect the surroundings.

The Forty Foot, Sandycove, County Dublin

A legendary swimming spot that’s been attracting brave souls since the 1750s, the Forty Foot in Sandycove is perfect for those who love their wild swimming with a dash of history. This sheltered inlet provides relatively calm waters even when the Irish Sea is choppy, making it one of the safer sea swimming spots near Dublin.

Located just 20 minutes from Dublin city centre via the coastal road, you’ll find ample parking nearby and the famous Sandycove Martello Tower (now the James Joyce Museum) right next door. The granite steps make entry and exit easy, and there are nearby cafés for a warming cuppa afterwards. The water temperature ranges from 6°C in winter to about 15°C in summer, so it’s refreshing year-round! Local swimming groups often gather here, creating a wonderful community atmosphere.

Lough Hyne, County Cork

Ireland’s first marine nature reserve, Lough Hyne near Skibbereen in West Cork, offers a truly unique wild swimming experience. This saltwater lake is connected to the sea by a narrow channel, creating an unusual ecosystem with water that’s typically 2-3 degrees warmer than the surrounding ocean.

The drive to Lough Hyne takes you through some of Cork’s most beautiful countryside, about 10 minutes from Skibbereen town. There’s a small car park and well-maintained paths leading to several entry points around the lake. The water is incredibly clear, often offering visibility of several metres, making it popular with snorkellers too. Swimming here feels like floating in a natural aquarium, with fascinating marine life visible beneath you. The sheltered location means the water is usually calm, perfect for a peaceful swim.

Killarney National Park Lakes, County Kerry

The three lakes within Killarney National Park—Lough Leane, Muckross Lake, and Upper Lake—offer some of the most scenic wild swimming in Ireland. Surrounded by ancient oak forests and overlooked by the majestic MacGillycuddy’s Reeks mountains, swimming here feels like stepping into a postcard.

All three lakes are easily accessible by car via the Ring of Kerry or from Killarney town centre. Muckross Lake is particularly popular for swimming, with several access points along the shoreline and nearby parking at Muckross House. The water is soft and peaty, creating a lovely amber colour, and the mountain backdrop is simply stunning. Ross Castle offers another excellent access point to Lough Leane, with the added bonus of exploring the 15th-century castle afterwards.

Glenveagh National Park, County Donegal

Lough Veagh, stretching through the heart of Glenveagh National Park in Donegal, provides wild swimming with an untamed, wilderness feel. This remote glacial lake is surrounded by rugged mountains and bogland, offering a true escape from modern life.

The drive to Glenveagh takes you through some of Ireland’s most dramatic landscape, about 30 minutes from Letterkenny. There’s a visitor centre with parking, and well-marked trails lead to various points along the lake. The water is incredibly pure and soft, though quite cold even in summer. Swimming here feels like communing with ancient Ireland—the silence is broken only by the call of red deer or the splash of your own strokes. The remote location means you’ll often have the entire lake to yourself.

Inch Beach Lagoon, County Kerry

While Inch Beach itself is famous for surfing, the sheltered lagoon behind the dunes offers perfect conditions for wild swimming. This tidal pool provides warmer, calmer water than the Atlantic Ocean just metres away, making it ideal for families or those new to sea swimming.

Inch Beach is easily reached by car on the Dingle Peninsula, about 45 minutes from Killarney. There’s plenty of parking right on the beach, and the lagoon is just a short walk across the sand dunes. The water temperature here can reach a pleasant 18°C in summer, and the sheltered location means it’s often swimmable even when the main beach has large waves. The surrounding dunes provide shelter from wind, and there are lovely walks along the beach afterwards.

Lough Dan, County Wicklow

Often called Lough Tay’s quieter sister, Lough Dan offers a more secluded wild swimming experience in the Wicklow Mountains. This peaceful lake is surrounded by coniferous forests and rolling hills, providing a serene setting for a refreshing dip.

Located near Roundwood village, Lough Dan is about an hour’s drive from Dublin. There’s limited roadside parking, so visiting during off-peak times is advisable. The lake has several entry points with reasonably easy access, though the approach can be muddy after rain. The water is typically clearer than many mountain lakes, and the surrounding forest creates a magical, almost Nordic atmosphere. It’s particularly beautiful in autumn when the trees display brilliant colours reflected in the still water.

Essential Tips for First-Time Wild Swimmers

Discover Ireland’s Wild Swimming Paradise

Ireland’s incredible wild swimming spots offer the perfect blend of adventure, natural beauty, and pure refreshment that makes any holiday truly memorable. From the mountain lakes of Wicklow to the sheltered coves of Cork, each location provides its own unique charm and unforgettable experience.

The freedom to explore these hidden gems at your own pace is what makes car hire the perfect choice for wild swimming adventures. With an Easirent Ireland rental car, you’ll have the flexibility to chase the perfect conditions, discover secluded spots off the tourist trail, and carry all your swimming gear with ease (as well as warm up with the heaters inside afterwards!) Our reliable vehicles and convenient pickup locations across Ireland make it simple to turn your wild swimming dreams into reality. Book your Easirent car rental today and dive into Ireland’s most spectacular natural swimming experiences!