Portmarnock, Velvet Strand Beach

About this spot

Velvet Strand Beach is a long, open, gently sloping beach facing east. Dunes are located to the back of the beach.

Facilities & access

Lifeguard

Yes11am to 7pm weekends only in June & full time July, August & first two weeks in Sept

Parking

Yes

Toilets

Yes

Accessible entry

Yes

Dogs

Yes

Public transport

YesBus Route

Official water quality

Classified Excellent in 2025.

Portmarnock, Velvet Strand Beach is classified as achieving Excellent Water Quality in 2025 based on the assessment of bacteriological results for the period 2022 to 2025. Portmarnock, Velvet Strand Beach has achieved an Excellent Water Quality rating for the four consecutive years 2022 to 2025. Annual water quality ratings are generally calculated using monitoring results over a four-year period and are assessed against stringent bacterial limits to protect bather health.

Common questions

Can you swim at Portmarnock, Velvet Strand Beach right now?

Portmarnock, Velvet Strand Beach is currently marked "Good to go". No current pollution alerts — always assess conditions yourself. This reflects the latest data published by the Environmental Protection Agency (Ireland). Conditions change quickly — always assess the water yourself before entering.

What is the water quality like at Portmarnock, Velvet Strand Beach?

the Environmental Protection Agency (Ireland) classified Portmarnock, Velvet Strand Beach as Excellent in 2025. Classifications are a rolling assessment of bacterial samples taken over four bathing seasons, measured against E. coli and intestinal enterococci limits set by the EU Bathing Water Directive.

Is there a swimming ban or warning at Portmarnock, Velvet Strand Beach?

There are no active bathing restrictions published by the Environmental Protection Agency (Ireland) for Portmarnock, Velvet Strand Beach. That is not a guarantee of safety — assess conditions yourself.

Is there a lifeguard at Portmarnock, Velvet Strand Beach?

Yes — Portmarnock, Velvet Strand Beach has lifeguard cover. Hours: 11am to 7pm weekends only in June & full time July, August & first two weeks in Sept. Cover is seasonal; check locally before relying on it.

What facilities are there at Portmarnock, Velvet Strand Beach?

Portmarnock, Velvet Strand Beach has toilets, parking, accessible entry. Facility information is published by the Environmental Protection Agency (Ireland).