Beach camping in Ireland is unforgettable—but it comes with a few unique challenges. Sure, the idea of falling asleep to the sound of waves is dreamy, but no one dreams of waking up with sand in their socks, a damp mattress, or a camper stuck in the tide. Whether you’re a seasoned van-lifer or trying beach camping for the first time, a little planning goes a long way.
That starts with the right setup. If you’re flying in, you’ll find fully equipped campervans for hire near Dublin Airport—ready and waiting to turn your seaside daydream into a full-on road trip. No tent poles, no stress, just keys, wheels, and the open coast ahead.
This guide covers everything you need to know before parking up beside the Atlantic—from what not to do (spoiler: don’t drive onto the beach) to clever ways to keep the sand where it belongs. Let’s dive in.
1. Don’t Park on the Beach (Here’s Why You Shouldn’t Want To)
While it might look dreamy on social media, parking directly on the beach is a bad idea—for you, for your van, and for the environment. Craic N Campers does not allow beach parking, and here’s why:
- You’ll probably get stuck. Sand isn’t stable ground for campervans, especially heavier models. Soft spots can sink tyres fast, and incoming tides don’t wait.
- Salt water is brutal on vans. It corrodes brake lines, exhaust systems, and undercarriages. Even a splash from wet sand can do long-term damage.
- It damages fragile ecosystems. Coastal habitats—including nesting birds and sand dune systems—can be destroyed by vehicles, even unintentionally.
- It spoils the view. Nobody goes to the beach hoping to stare at bumpers and bike racks.
You’ll find plenty of incredible coastal campsites just beside the sea, where you can soak up the view and still sleep soundly (on solid ground).
Bonus tip: never trust a mate who says “you’ll be grand” by text.
2. Sand Management 101
A beach breeze is lovely. Sand in your sleeping bag? Less so. A few small habits will go a long way:
- Keep a mat or towel just outside your van to catch sand before it gets in
- Rinse feet and gear before re-entering
- Bring a handheld brush or dustpan to sweep floors regularly
- Use mesh bags for beach gear so that sand does not fall through, instead of collecting
3. Respect the Elements (and the Tide Charts)
Ireland’s coast is beautiful—but exposed. Wind, salt spray, and fast-moving weather are part of the package.
- Always check the tide schedule before settling in for the evening
- Park facing into the wind if it’s strong (you’ll sleep better)
- Dry out wet gear quickly to avoid mildew inside the van
4. Follow the Leave No Trace Approach
Leave No Trace Ireland offers seven simple principles to help protect wild places. Here are a few that matter most by the beach:
- Camp only on durable ground, not dunes or grass
- Stay at least 30 metres from the shoreline when camping
- Take everything home—including food waste, wrappers, and hygiene products
- Keep noise low to avoid disturbing wildlife (and fellow campers)
- Use biodegradable soap and wash dishes far from water sources
For more tips, visit Leave No Trace Ireland!
5. Make the Most of Your Coastal Stay
Beach camping is about slowing down, stretching out, and soaking up the view. Bring a few extras to make it memorable:
- A good camp chair for shoreline stargazing
- A reusable water bottle—hydration is key
- Quick-dry towels, snacks, a soft jumper, and a portable light source
- And, always, more socks than you think you’ll need
Next up: the best beachfront camping spots in Ireland—where the sand is just a short walk away, and the views are free.
Beachfront Camping: 5 Incredible Campsites Near the Sea
While Craic N Campers doesn’t allow parking directly on beaches (for good reason—see our practical advice above), plenty of breathtaking campsites across Ireland put you just steps from the shoreline. These coastal gems let you wake up to the sound of waves, with all the safety, comfort, and environmental responsibility of a proper campervan pitch.
Renvyle Beach Caravan & Camping Park, Co. Galway
Location: Near Letterfrack Village, Connemara
Distance to beach: Direct access to an award-winning sandy beach
Campervan friendly? Yes – designated pitches near the shore (not on sand)
Highlights:
- Stunning Atlantic views of Clare Island, Inishturk, Achill, and Croagh Patrick
- Excellent water quality (Green Coast Award winner)
- Shops, pubs, and restaurants nearby
- Dolphin sightings from the shore
- Ideal for families and nature lovers
Good to know:
You’ll camp near the water without risking the tides. This site blends beach bliss with practical access and peaceful views.
Salthill Caravan & Camping Park, Co. Galway
Location: Just outside Salthill Village, near Galway City
Distance to beach: 20 metres (direct access to the strand)
Campervan friendly? Yes – long-established site with full campervan facilities
Highlights:
- Panoramic Galway Bay views from three sides
- Family-friendly with a playground and modern amenities
- Walking distance to Salthill attractions and city links
- Great access to Seapoint, the Atlantaquaria, and Galway City
Good to know:
It is perfect for beach lovers who want easy access to city life and seaside charm. It is one of the best-located beachfront camping sites on the West Coast.
Wolohan’s Silver Strand Caravan & Camping Park, Co. Wicklow
Location: 4.3 km from Wicklow Town, overlooking Silver Strand Beach
Distance to beach: Direct access, perched just above the shoreline
Campervan friendly? Yes – family-run site welcoming campervans for 70+ years
Highlights:
- Spectacular views over one of Wicklow’s finest beaches
- Safe swimming and sandy shores
- 22-acre rural setting with peaceful atmosphere
- Seasonal shop (June–August) with camping supplies
Good to know:
A long-standing favourite for beach camping in Wicklow. Come for the coast, stay for the quiet mornings and wide-open skies.
Dunmore East Holiday and Golf Resort, Co. Waterford
Location: Cliffside near Dunmore East village
Distance to beach: Walking distance via private access trail; multiple blue flag beaches nearby
Campervan friendly? Yes – modern touring and camping facilities
Highlights:
- Private beach access, cliff walks, and woodland trails
- On-site golf course, bar, restaurant, and playgrounds
- Ideal for active families and beach-hoppers
- Close to sailing school, Dunmore Adventure Centre, and Waterford’s coastal drive
Good to know:
This is the best of both worlds—resort-style facilities with natural coastal charm. Park nearby, walk down, and enjoy the seaside without the sand in your tyres.
Rosguill Caravan & Camping Park, Co. Donegal
Location: Melmore, Downings, Rosguill Peninsula
Distance to beach: Direct access via boardwalk + short walk to Murder Hole Beach
Campervan friendly? Yes – Fáilte Ireland approved site with full services
Highlights:
- Sea views from every pitch over Mulroy Bay
- Access to hidden gems like Tra na Rossan and Murder Hole Beach
- On-site café, tennis court, pitch & putt, and laundry
- Ideal for slow days, photography, and beach walks
Good to know:
Rosguill is what beach camping is all about: peaceful, low-key, and full of character. No crowds, no sand traps—just you, the view, and your camper.
Final Words, Camping Near The Beach
Beach camping in Ireland offers the best of both worlds: wild Atlantic views and the comforts of a proper campervan site. With the right preparation and a respectful approach to nature, you can enjoy everything the coastline has to offer—without getting stuck in the sand, drenched by the tide, or waking up to salt-sprayed gear.
Choose a campsite close to the beach, follow Leave No Trace principles, and you’ll be rewarded with seaside sunrises, quiet stargazing, and the kind of freedom that only comes with coastal air.
