Location
Ireland
Status
Informal / Traditional
Suitable for
Adults only
Terrain
Rock
Best season
All year (early mornings)
About Forty Foot
The Forty Foot is a rocky promontory and deep-water bathing place at Sandycove, just south of Dún Laoghaire and about 13 km south of Dublin city centre, beside the Martello tower made famous by the opening of Joyce's Ulysses. Swimmers enter the sea from rock ledges and steps into deep, clear and cold water, and people swim here all year round. For generations it was a men-only bathing place where nude swimming was the tradition. It has long been open to everyone, and the Irish Naturist Association notes that nude bathing now happens only very early in the morning. During the day and at weekends it is very busy with clothed swimmers and is not a naturist spot. There is no sand: it is all rock and concrete, with limited shelter. A visit suits experienced sea swimmers who want a traditional early-morning dip rather than anyone looking for a nude beach to spend the day on.
Getting there
In Dún Laoghaire follow signs for the harbour, then the coast road south to Sandycove and the Martello tower; the Forty Foot is beside it. Street parking in Sandycove is limited and busy. The DART train to Sandycove and Glasthule station is a short walk away, and Dublin Bus routes serve Dún Laoghaire. Entry to the water is by steps and rock ledges, so access is not easy for people with limited mobility.
Amenities
Legal context
Not a designated naturist area; nude bathing persists only as an early-morning tradition. Since 2017, public nudity in Ireland is an offence only where there is intent to cause fear, distress or alarm or where it involves sexual activity. During the day, swimwear is the norm.
Naturism at Forty Foot sits under Ireland's rules for traditional tolerance — custom more than statute.
Full country law: Ireland public nudity guide.
Naturist status confirmed against an official source on 24 October 2026.
Location
View on interactive map
Approx. 53.2895, -6.1137
Visitor tips
- 1 Informal / tolerated site — be discreet and leave no drama.
- 2 Towel, water, sunscreen. Sit on your own towel.
- 3 No photos without clear consent.
- 4 Check access, tides, and parking before you go.
- 5 House rules and local custom can be stricter than the law.
More in Ireland
Frequently asked questions
Can I swim nude at the Forty Foot?
Only very early in the morning, following the old tradition. During the day and at weekends it is busy and not a naturist spot.
Is it a beach?
No. It is a rocky bathing place with steps into deep water; there is no sand.
How do I get there by public transport?
Take the DART to Sandycove and Glasthule and walk to the Martello tower.
Sources
Important
Beach status changes. Verify current conditions before you go. This is guidance, not legal advice.
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