Step straight onto the sand with these 5 Irish hotels on the beach

Craving some time by the sea? Why not book a stay at one of these beach-side hotels for later in the summer?

With hotels back open and our the hope that the scorching weather we’ve been having might return, a break where you can stay right beside the beach sounds pretty perfect. Luckily, with Ireland’s expansive coastline we have plenty to choose from.

Whether you want to see the rugged beauty of Donegal or have been pining for picturesque West Cork, here are five hotels where you can wake up to the sound of the sea.

Renvyle House Hotel, Connemara

Located on the Connemara Loop known for its spectacular scenery, the four-star Renvyle House Hotel has a kilometre of beach on its 150-acre grounds, so guests can enjoy seaside walks or a dip in the ocean. There’s also an outdoor heated pool if the Atlantic is a little chilly for your tastes, as well as access to many walking and cycling routes.

Inchydoney Island Lodge & Spa, West Cork

If you want some pampering along with your sea views, Inchydoney Island Lodge & Spa has a seawater spa where you can totally unwind, with a range of great treatments to choose from. What’s more, the hotel overlooks a stunning Blue Flag beach, which is ideal if you’re staying with kids.

Rathmullan House, Donegal

Tucked away just metres from a three-kilometre stretch of sandy beach, Rathmullan House is set within seven acres of wooded gardens, so you have plenty of options for outdoor exploring. With dog-friendly rooms available, you can even bring your four-legged friend. The Georgian building blends traditional style with a cosy, welcoming feel, and the restaurant makes the most of its proximity to the sea, with fresh seafood a speciality.

Cliff House Hotel, Waterford 

Known as one of Ireland’s best luxury hotels, Cliff House Hotel is a five-star experience, but has a particularly intimate feel. As well as ocean views from all the luxury bedrooms and the hotel’s spa, it also has a Michelin-starred restaurant that serves a six or ten-course tasting menu in a dining room overlooking the sea. Its focus is on local Irish ingredients, with executive chef Ian Doyle and head chef Adam Kavanagh also concentrating on sustainability.

Slieve Donard Resort and Spa, Newcastle

Set beside the Irish sea, Slieve Donard Resort and Spa is popular with golf fans, as it’s next to the Royal County Down Golf Links, but there are plenty of other attractions, too. The Mourne mountains offer endless walking trails and hikes for nature lovers, and the spa provides the opportunity for a relaxing treatment.

As Northern Ireland has not yet announced a date for hotels to reopen, the hotel is not currently accepting bookings for the summer to avoid disappointment, however, you can sign up by email to be the first to hear once they are.