Dublin Coastal Walk: Dún Laoghaire to Dalkey with a Local Guide
Overview
Available languages
Mobile ticket
Come with me, Ian, a 4th generation local guide, to explore Dublin’s coastline on a relaxed walk from Dún Laoghaire to Dalkey — with options to continue to Killiney.
This scenic route blends sea views with layers of history beneath your feet. As we follow the bay, the landscape reveals its story — from Wicklow granite that built harbours, homes and landmarks to the events behind Dún Laoghaire Harbour.
Along the way, hear stories of maritime tragedy, Victorian ambition, and everyday life by the sea. Discover Dalkey’s past as a Viking trading settlement, tales of defence against Napoleon, and connections to Joyce.
This is a friendly walk with time to pause and take in the views, ask questions, and enjoy the experience together.
Flexible route with options for a swim, coffee, ice cream, or a pint — with plenty of chances to stop, chat, and soak up Dublin’s unique coastal atmosphere at an easy, enjoyable pace.
Cruise guests: timed for ship schedules with guaranteed return to port.
Additional Info
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
What To Expect
Dun Laoghaire Harbour
Learn the history of Dun Laoghaire from King Laoghaire in the 5th century through Christianity with St. Patrick to the shipwrecks that led to the building of the harbour, the arrival of Ireland's first railway and the development of the town as a royal seaside resort to a modern cultural hub.
National Maritime Museum of Ireland
From a position beside the museum we overlook the harbour and learn of how it was built, it's key features and the ghosts that frequent it.
Options
Granite Coast Options
Sauna & Swim: Option at a few locations to have a swim. There are also a couple of Sauna locations along the route (Not included in price) Guinness Time: Option available to have a Guinness (or any beverage!) at some points along the route at local pubs. (Not included in price) Tour Route: Route is adaptable to the needs and desires of the group with multiple options to jump off. Dalkey Island: Option to get a boat to Dalkey Island. Short boat ride, but will take up an hour or so of total guided time.
What‘s Included
Umbrella (if raining)
Bottled water
James Joyce Tower & Museum
Snacks
Transportation
Sauna (optional)
Guinness (or any beverage - optional)
Boat Trip to Dalkey Island (optional)
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Reviews
6 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Dun Laoghaire costal walking
I8206EIsusanm,May 28, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00It was a very enjoyable day. Ian is so knowledgeable about the area. We walk at a very easy pace as l am not a fast walker. I enjoyed learning about the different costal town. Definitely worthwhile and worth the money. Thanks Ian.
A brilliant way to experience Dublin’s coastline
a0ibh nnh,Apr 27, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00I really enjoyed the Granite Coast walk from Dún Laoghaire to Killiney. It’s a fantastic way to experience a different side of Dublin away from the busy city centre. The route is beautiful the whole way, with great coastal views and plenty of interesting stops along the way. Our guide was friendly, knowledgeable, and made the walk feel relaxed and enjoyable rather than rushed. I especially liked how the tour mixed local history and stories with time to take in the scenery and chat. One highlight was stopping for an ice cream at the famous Teddy’s, which made the experience feel extra special and very local. The views from the top of Killiney Hill were absolutely amazing and definitely a standout moment of the walk. It was the perfect way to finish the route. Overall, it’s a great experience whether you’re visiting Dublin for the first time or even if you’re local and want to see the coastline from a new perspective. I’d definitely recommend this walk to anyone who enjoys being outdoors and discovering beautiful places at a relaxed pace.
A morning well spent
niamho523,Apr 27, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Ian is very knowledgable and delivered a very enjoyable and professional experience. It was very well run and organised. I would highly recommend
Nice and relaxed tour of Dun Laoghaire
nona775,Apr 25, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Got a great day so got to see Dun Laoghaire and surrounds in all their glory. Ian was a great guide, though you never felt like you were part of a tour. It was an easy and relaxed pace and conversation through which I learned so much. Also had a dip at Sandycove though didn't have time to have a sauna. All in all can't recommend the tour and Ian enough. Would loved to have time to get out to Dalkey Island, another time hopefully.
Excellent tour with a very knowledgeable guide.
A6866GBcarolined,Apr 25, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00.The history and folklore of the locations was fascinating. The route and pace were perfect for our family group. We added on a trip around Killiney Hill which gave spectacular views across Dublin Bay and an opportunity to stop and enjoy a relaxing treat in the coffee shop.
A wonderful coastal walk experience in South Dublin
aislingo137,Apr 25, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We really enjoyed this coastal walk with Ian. It felt less like a tour and more like heading out for a walk with someone who knows and loves the area and enjoys sharing it with others. The tour felt relaxed and easygoing, and the route itself is perfect — fresh sea air, beautiful scenery, and plenty of nice places to stop for coffee or lunch. There was a great buzz of people along the route, but we never felt like it was over crowded. We also liked how flexible it was — Ian contacted us to confirm our booking and discuss if we would like to personalise the tour. We started our walk with a lovely coffee and finished with a sauna on Killiney beach, with gorgeous views of the coast (there was an option for a cold plunge in the sea here, but we were not so brave). We spent approx. 3 hours with Ian from beginning our tour to completing our sauna and never felt rushed. Once Ian knew what we wanted to include, he curated a well timed route and made sure the terrain suited our abilities. The tour is very well priced for such a unique experience. Definitely recommend if you want a relaxed walk with great scenery, good company, and interesting stories. The option to personalise this tour was a lovely touch and Ian really made us feel special.
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Operated by Land and Legend Trails