A Guide to the Perfect Portmarnock Getaway

If you are looking for a relaxing coastal escape in Dublin, Portmarnock is the perfect destination. I recently spent a weekend at Portmarnock Resort & Jameson Golf Links and it was the ideal base for exploring the local area. From scenic coastal walks and historic landmarks to great food and beautiful beaches, there's something for everyone to enjoy.

Whether you’re planning a relaxing weekend away, a romantic getaway, or a coastal break with friends, here are some of my favourite things to do during your stay at Portmarnock Resort.

St. Anne’s Park, Red Stables & Farmers Market

A short drive from Portmarnock Resort, St. Anne’s Park is a beautiful spot for a relaxed morning or afternoon stroll.

The park features scenic walking trails, gardens, historic features, and plenty of peaceful spaces to enjoy a picnic or take in the surroundings. Within the park, you’ll also find The Red Stables, a restored historic building that hosts exhibitions and local events — we even visited during an art exhibition, which was a lovely addition to our walk.

If you’re visiting on a Saturday, make sure to explore the St. Anne’s Farmers Market and Red Stables Food Market, where you’ll find local food stalls, fresh produce, baked goods, and artisan treats. It’s the perfect half-day outing to enjoy nature, local culture, and great food during your Portmarnock stay.

Step Back in Time at Swords Castle

For guests who enjoy history, Swords Castle is an easy trip from Portmarnock Resort and makes for a great cultural stop during your stay.

Dating back to the early 13th century, the castle was originally built as the residence of the Archbishop of Dublin. Today, visitors can explore the remaining medieval structures, including the chapel and castle grounds.

It’s a smaller attraction, making it a lovely addition to your itinerary if you want to discover a piece of Dublin’s history without dedicating an entire day to sightseeing.

Take a Walk Along Velvet Strand

One of the biggest highlights of staying in Portmarnock is having the coastline right on your doorstep.

Velvet Strand, Portmarnock’s famous sandy beach, is just minutes from the resort and is perfect for a peaceful coastal walk, a sea swim, or simply enjoying the views across Dublin Bay. The beach stretches for several kilometres, making it ideal for a long walk where you can take in the fresh sea air and beautiful surroundings. If you’re lucky enough to visit on a clear evening, it’s also a stunning spot to watch the sunset.

For me, this was one of those simple experiences that makes a coastal getaway feel special — no plans needed, just a walk by the sea.

Visit Malahide Castle & Gardens

Just a short drive from Portmarnock Resort, Malahide Castle & Gardens is one of my favourite places to visit in the area.

Dating back to the 12th century, the castle offers guided tours where you can learn about its fascinating history, while the surrounding estate is perfect for exploring at your own pace. The gardens are especially beautiful during spring and summer, with colourful blooms, walking trails, and peaceful spots to enjoy. The estate is also home to the Butterfly House, which is a unique experience and definitely worth visiting if you enjoy nature.

During the warmer months, the castle also hosts special events and dining experiences, making it a lovely place to spend an afternoon or evening during your Portmarnock stay.

Spend a Day Exploring Howth

From Portmarnock Resort, Howth makes for a perfect day trip, offering everything from harbour walks and local markets to incredible seafood and coastal views. The Howth Market is a great place to browse local food stalls, but one thing you absolutely have to try while you’re there is the famous fish and chips by the harbour.

For those who enjoy walking, the Howth Cliff Walk offers some of the best coastal views in Dublin. If hiking isn’t your thing, you can still enjoy the views with a shorter walk once you reach the viewpoint.

This is one of my personal favourite spots in Dublin and a place I always recommend adding to your itinerary.

Afternoon Tea with a View at Seaview

After a day of exploring, there’s nothing better than slowing down and enjoying the views back at the resort. Located within Portmarnock Resort, Seaview Restaurant offers incredible coastal views and is the perfect spot for lunch, dinner, or a special afternoon experience.

During our stay, we booked afternoon tea at Seaview, and it was one of the highlights of the weekend. The pastries were delicious and the coastline view made it feel extra memorable.