9 Activities in Dublin for Adventure Lovers | Outsider Magazine (2023)

Dublin is one of the best cities to live in for adventure lovers. Whether you are a fan of the mountains or the sea, we have it all!

Here are nine of the best activities in Dublin for outdoor-lovers.

1. Kite-surfing on Dollymount Strand

9 Activities in Dublin for Adventure Lovers | Outsider Magazine (1)

Located a 15-minute drive north of the city centre lies one Europe’s best kitesurfing spots. Dollymount strand is a long golden beach with shallow, relatively flat water and reliable winds. Spring and autumn offer optimal conditions, however, you’ll be treated to a colourful mosaic of kites in the sky throughout the year.

Essential information: Conditions are at their best for kitesurfing here when the wind is blowing south-easterly. This beach is suitable for kitesurfers of all abilities and is a great beach to learn the basics. Francois from Pure Magic is an enthusiastic teacher. Located in Clontarf he offers both private and group lessons throughout the year.

2. Mountain biking in Ticknock

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I love the fact that you can be at your desk in the centre of the city, yet within a 30-minute cycle you can be staring down at the metropolis beneath you. Nestled in the foothills of Three Rock Mountain, Ticknock has 13km of challenging trail on offer. The trails are fast, run and the views across Dublin Bay will put a smile on even the grumpiest of faces.

Essential information: Parking is available at the trail head should you wish to drive there instead of ride. The car park shuts at 4pm during winter and 9pm during summer. However, you are welcome to ride as late as you like if you leave the car at home. The trails are well marked throughout. Those who do not have their own bikes or are in need of a little professional guidance should check out Biking.ie which offers bike rental and skills workshops throughout the year.

3. SUP on your lunch break in the centre of the city

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There’s something quite surreal about paddling along the Grand Canal Basin while above you, people are rushing about their daily business in suits – it’s pretty awesome and it’s a great way to shake up your Monday-Friday, 9-5 grind.

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Those wanting to make the most of the long summer evenings can also opt to head out of town. Howth, Malahide and Dun Laoghaire harbour all offer calm waters which are perfect for exploring by SUP.

Essential information: Surfdock located in Grand Canal dock offers SUP lessons and board rental. It also has shower facilities on site. Above Board offers lessons and board rentals in Dun Laoghaire.

Things to do in Dublin: The Complete Guide for Outdoor Lovers

4. Wakeboarding at Grand Canal Dock

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Sticking with the city centre, Wakedock is a brilliant new-ish addition to Dublin. This cable wakeboard park, located in the heart of the docklands is perfect for both beginners and expert wakeboarders alike as the speed can be adjusted accordingly. Those wanting to hone their freestyle skills are also catered for on the two kickers, slider and rooftop rail.

Essential information: Wakedock offers sessions throughout the year for individuals and groups. Lessons start at €60 while ride passes start at €25. However, you can bulk buy ride passes if you intend on becoming a regular which will reduce the per ride cost.

5. Rock climbing in Dalkey Quarry

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A thirty-minute DART ride from the city centre will land you in Dalkey Quarry which offers some sensational rock climbing. Offering a maze of narrow paths leading to a huge variety of routes (from beginner friendly to super advanced), even the most regular of visitors to this place never tire of it.

The quarry itself has been split into three areas, West Valley, East Valley and Upper Tier, each offering a huge variety of routes – slabs, cracks, chimneys and steep blocky overhangs. You name it, it’s probably there somewhere. The views over Dalkey town and across Dublin Bay to Howth also make climbing here all the sweeter.

Essential information: Dalkey quarry is easily accessed from the city centre – it is a 30-minute DART ride and a short walk to the entrance of the quarry. There is also plenty of parking available if you wish to drive. If you are new to climbing fear not, Dalkey Quarry is the perfect place to learn. Adventure.ie offers both weekend and weekly courses.

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6. Road riding pretty much anywhere

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Scenic roads are plentiful close to the city centre. Whether you fancy a low-key coastal jaunt or some lung-busting climbs you will be well catered for. Enjoy unrivalled sea views by heading either north of the city to Howth Head or south of the city out towards Bray and Greystones – beware though, both routes have a couple of sneaky climbs thrown in.

Those looking for something even more arduous should head for the hills, well the Dublin Mountains to be precise. A ride up to the masts at Ticknock is a great ride for those who are a little time poor, while a ride out into the Wicklow Mountains along the Sally Gap is a must for those with a few more hours to spare.

Essential information: If you are new to road cycling, it might be a good idea to check out one of the local triathlon or cycling clubs as they will offer beginner friendly rides. They are a great way to discover new routes, meet like-minded people and of course, to find out where all of the best coffee and cake stops are.

7 Fabulous Hikes on Dublin’s Doorstep

7. Hit the water and go exploring by kayak

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Whether you’re fan of the white water or prefer sea-bound adventures, you have it all in Dublin.

Located right on the sea, we have endless opportunities for exploration by kayak. From Howth, you can amble around the headland or even go further afield and circumnavigate one of the nearby islands. On the southside, Greystones, Bray, Dalkey and Dun Laoghaire all offer launching pads from which you can explore the stunning coastline.

Further inland, The River Liffey which runs from Kildare all the way into the city centre is really popular amongst paddlers who don’t mind negotiating the odd weir or two. Each year this section of the river up to Island Bridge just outside the city centre hosts one of the most challenging marathon kayaking races in Europe – The Liffey Descent.

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Elsewhere, kayaking enthusiasts can opt to take on quieter sections of the river, avoiding the weirs, or take a jaunt along the Grand Canal, which offers a whopping 131km of calm waters waiting to be explored. Outdoors Extreme offers total beginners the opportunity to try their hand at kayaking offering hour-long sessions in the city centre for just €15.

Essential information: Novice kayakers are advised to join one of the tour providers or clubs if they are hoping to head on a Liffey adventure – those weirs are very tricky to navigate and require a lot of experience. Kayaking.ie offers guided river and sea kayaking trips.

8. Take a Detour with GreenAer

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The electric bike is the future of green transport and we are already mad fans. They are the perfect way to explore Dublin city and its surroundings. Rent an E-bike from GreenAer or if you don’t know the city well, take a Detour! Let lead guide and Dublin native Stephen Wilson take you exploring on one of their three Dublin routes.

You have a choice of the Phoenix, whichis a two and a half hour spin starting off in Dublin’s historic city centre, visiting all the hotspots all the way out to Dublin’s magnificent Phoenix Park. The Southsider is a three and a half hour pedal out the Southern Coastal route through Irishtown and onwards to Sandymount Strand and Dun Laoghaire, where if you are feeling brave you can have a dip in The Forty Foot, a favourite spot for Dublin’s brave sea swimmers! After that, it’s onto the picturesque Dalkey and Killiney. Finally the longest on the list, the Northsider is four and a half hours long and takes you out to the historic and truly magical Howth.

Essential Info:This is not just for tourists, we’re natives and we had a ball when we did the Howth Detour! The Phoenix cycle usually costs €65 but is currently on special offer for €45. The Southsider is usually €85 but is now on offer for €65. And the Northsider is usually €90 but is currently on offer for €70. You’ll find out all the information you need on the Detours or GreenAer website.

9. Take the plunge

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There is nothing more exhilarating than plunging into the chilly waters of the Irish Sea. If you don’t believe me, you have to try it for yourself and I promise you will be joining the crowds of people that gather at Dublin’s swimming spots on a daily basis, come rain, hail or shine.

The Forty Foot is, without a doubt, the most famous swimming spot in Dublin, you will find bathers here throughout the day. Smaller groups gather across the county in Salthill, Killiney, Portmarnock, Skerries and Malahide.

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Essential information: If you are hoping to become a hardy year-round swimmer, it is a good idea to start out in summer, easing your way through autumn, and into winter. Hopping into the water for the first time in mid-winter can be a bit of a shock to the system.

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FAQs

9 Activities in Dublin for Adventure Lovers | Outsider Magazine? ›

Three days in Dublin is the perfect length of time to enjoy the sights, soak up the culture, the cathedrals and the castles. You'll also have plenty of time to explore the pubs and bars the city is so famous for and enjoy the craic.

How many days in Dublin is enough? ›

Three days in Dublin is the perfect length of time to enjoy the sights, soak up the culture, the cathedrals and the castles. You'll also have plenty of time to explore the pubs and bars the city is so famous for and enjoy the craic.

What is adventure activities? ›

Adventure sports or extreme sports are activities undertaken through the medium of Land, Water and Air and perceived as involving a high degree of risk. These activities often involve speed, height, a high level of physical exertion and highly specialized gear.

Why do people engage in outdoor recreation? ›

Spending time in nature and the natural light can improve your mood and reduce stress and depression. Engaging in physical activity produces similar benefits and often times relaxes and cheers people up. Your self-esteem will improve. Outdoor exercise stimulates all five senses in a way that indoor activities cannot.

What month is best to visit Dublin? ›

The best time to visit Dublin is June through August when temperatures are warm (for Ireland anyway) and festivals fill the streets. This also constitutes the most expensive time to visit, with high hotel rates and airfare prices.

Is 4 days in Dublin too much? ›

But if you want to get off the beaten path and explore some different areas around Dublin, 4 days is definitely ideal. With 4 days in Dublin, you will have time to head out for a day trip from Dublin to somewhere like the Boyne Valley or Wicklow Mountains.

What are 10 outdoor leisure activities? ›

Other traditional examples of outdoor recreational activities include hiking, camping, mountaineering, cycling, dog walking, canoeing, caving, kayaking, rafting, rock climbing, running, sailing, skiing, sky diving and surfing.

What are 10 examples of outdoor recreational activities? ›

60 Examples of Outdoor Activities
ArcheryBadminton
HikingHopscotch
Horseback RidingIce Skating
Inline SkatingKayaking
Keep Away (Ball)Kite Flying
25 more rows
Jul 25, 2020

What are 6 examples of the outdoor games? ›

There are a variety of outdoor games that are played in India like Kho-Kho, kabaddi, cricket, volleyball, basketball and football.

What are examples of adventures? ›

An adventure is an exciting experience or undertaking that is typically bold, sometimes risky. Adventures may be activities with danger such as traveling, exploring, skydiving, mountain climbing, scuba diving, river rafting, or other extreme sports.

What is an example of adventure trip? ›

This may include activities such as mountaineering, trekking, bungee jumping, mountain biking, cycling, canoeing, scuba diving, rafting, kayaking, zip-lining, paragliding, hiking, exploring, canyoneering, sandboarding, caving and rock climbing. Some obscure forms of adventure travel include disaster and ghetto tourism.

What is hard adventure activities? ›

Hard adventure refers to activities with high levels of risk, requiring intense commitment and advanced skills. Hard tourism includes the activities like climbing mountains/rock/ice, trekking, caving, etc. Hard adventure activities are highly risked in nature.

What outdoor activities do people like? ›

Many people enjoy playing badminton, riding bicycles, and walking. Some sports that have been adopted from other cultures are also popular, such as basketball, tennis, and track sports.

What is the best outdoor recreational activity why? ›

Meaningful Adventure

If you are a nature lover, there is no doubt that hiking is the best outdoor activity for you. Experiencing nature without the constraints of modern civilization will make you appreciate natural life and forget about the bustling pollution of the industries.

Is Dublin an expensive city to visit? ›

For budget-minded travelers, it costs around €65-€100/day to visit Dublin. These prices are based on what you'll need to visit the city comfortably as a budget traveler. If you want to upgrade your accommodation, you should add another €90-€120/night depending on where you stay.

What is the rainiest month in Dublin? ›

Rainfall is extremely common throughout Ireland. The wettest months, almost everywhere are December and January. April is the driest month generally but in many southern parts, June is the driest.

What is the coldest month in Dublin Ireland? ›

The coldest months of the year are January and February with average temperatures of 2ºC to 8ºC (36ºF - 46ºF). Winters in Dublin are not usually very cold and it is rare for it to snow or freeze.

Is Dublin cheaper than NYC? ›

Cost of Living Comparison Between Dublin and New York, NY

You would need around 8,437.4€ (9,165.5$) in New York, NY to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with 5,900.0€ in Dublin (assuming you rent in both cities). This calculation uses our Cost of Living Plus Rent Index to compare cost of living.

How much money do I need for two days in Dublin? ›

How much money will you need for your trip to Dublin? You should plan to spend around €140 ($154) per day on your vacation in Dublin, which is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors. Past travelers have spent, on average, €49 ($54) on meals for one day and €17 ($19) on local transportation.

Is Dublin a friendly city? ›

Dublin has repeatedly been named one of the friendliest cities in Europe and the world.

What is the most popular leisure activity? ›

Watching Movies vs Listening to Music

Listening to music topped the YouGov poll of the most popular leisure activities with 85% of people enjoying it and just 3% who didn't. That high number was consistent among all age groups from millennials through to boomers.

What are 5 different leisure activities? ›

Examples of recreation activities are walking, swimming, meditation, reading, playing games and dancing.

What are five positive leisure activities? ›

Some of these ideas may also help create a calm atmosphere to reduce stress. Examples: Cooking or baking, gardening, taking a walk, singing, reading, or playing a musical instrument.

What are 5 examples of active recreation? ›

Active recreation is non-competitive physical activity for the purpose of wellbeing and enjoyment. This includes activities like walking, swimming, cycling, equipment-based exercise, fishing, running and yoga which can occur independently or with the involvement of a 'provider' group or organisation.

What are 4 recreational activities? ›

Water sports, cycling and hiking are examples outdoor recreational activities. Many sports centers offer indoor activities such as ball games, dancing and gymnastics for members and guests to participate. Recreational activities tend to be done with other people, and they can be a means of socializing and keeping fit.

What are unique recreational activities? ›

  • Goat yoga. No, not goats doing yoga. ...
  • Standup paddleboard yoga. This is another kind of yoga: in the middle of a lake, balanced on a floating paddleboard. ...
  • Slacklining. ...
  • Parkour. ...
  • Live-action role play. ...
  • Nordic walking. ...
  • Sculling. ...
  • Yoga on horseback.

What are the top 10 hardest outdoor games? ›

Our Verdict
  1. Nordic Skiing. For our money, this is the toughest sport. ...
  2. Rock Climbing. Climbing requires a high degree of technical skill, and a nearly incomparable level of mental discipline and self-reliance. ...
  3. Open-Water Swimming. ...
  4. Downhill Mountain Biking. ...
  5. Ultrarunning.
Oct 25, 2016

What are 5 indoor games? ›

Forget Ludo or Snakes and Ladders; here are ten exciting indoor games that will keep your (and your neighbors') kids occupied:
  • I spy: ...
  • Hide-and-seek: ...
  • Simon says: ...
  • Musical chairs: ...
  • Scavenger hunt: ...
  • Charades: ...
  • Scrabble/Boggle:
  • Pictionary:
Sep 18, 2018

What are the 5 indoor and outdoor games names? ›

Five indoor games are: Ludo. Carom.
...
Five outdoor games are:
  • Cricket.
  • Football.
  • Volleyball.
  • Hockey.
  • Kabaddi.

What is the 10 adventure? ›

10Adventures is your one stop source for all your adventure travel needs. From sharing high quality travel guides to booking guided tours, our mission is to help you get outside more and make sure you have a wonderful experience when you do.

What is common adventure? ›

Common Adventure Trips are outings organized by trip leaders and students just like you! These adventures are planned by students, for students, so you can get exactly what you want out of the trip.

What is an awesome adventure? ›

June 2021) Awesome Adventures is an adventure/travel series that takes teenagers on journeys around the world to experience a wide range of destinations and diverse activities. The E/I syndicated series is produced and distributed by Steve Rotfeld Productions (SRP) and has been hosted by Nicole Dabeau since 2012.

What is the best kind of adventure? ›

Spontaneity is the best kind of adventure. Be Spontaneous and find your glow.

What is a weekend adventure? ›

Weekend Adventure (originally known as ABC Weekend Adventure and Litton's Weekend Adventure) is an American syndicated programming block that is produced by Hearst Media Production Group, and airs weekend mornings on the owned-and-operated stations and affiliates of ABC.

What is soft adventure? ›

Definition. Soft adventure is the term used to describe the type of adventure tourism that requires little or no experience and is low risk (as opposed to hard tourism which requires greater levels of skill and incorporates more of significant risk).

What are 5 soft adventure activities? ›

Below I've provided soft adventure activities for people seeking low-impact activities outdoors.
  • Horseback Riding. You'll find horseback riding in many climates, from the islands to the mountains. ...
  • Day Hikes. ...
  • Cruising and boating. ...
  • Biking. ...
  • Scenic Walks. ...
  • Interpretive Nature Trails. ...
  • Snorkeling and Scuba Diving. ...
  • Tubing.
Jun 6, 2022

What is an outdoor adventurous activity? ›

Outdoor and adventurous activities: (e.g. land-based (e.g. mountain walking, camping, mountain biking, rock climbing, abseiling, orienteering, high rope courses, caving, mining, skiing, snowboarding) water-based (e.g. canoeing, kayaking, sailing, windsurfing, water skiing, surfing) air-based (e.g. gliding, parachuting, ...

How can I have a fun adventurous life? ›

8 Principles for Living a More Adventurous Life
  1. Don't Overspend on Gear. ...
  2. Get the Right Mindset on Timing. ...
  3. Supershort Outings Can Be Super Worth It. ...
  4. Breaks Are for Taking. ...
  5. There's Always Something New to Try. ...
  6. Don't Be Afraid to Ask an Expert. ...
  7. Don't Be Afraid to Be the Expert. ...
  8. Support Local Wonders.
Dec 13, 2018

Is 2 days enough for Dublin? ›

2 days in Dublin is enough time if you just want to see the city's main highlights. However, if you want to see some of Dublin's lesser known sights and hidden gems, or if you want to go on some day trips to other parts of Ireland, then you'll want to extend your trip by at least another 2 days.

Is 5 days in Dublin enough? ›

After it, we went to a hotel to pick up our bags and have gone to the airport. Five days in Dublin is enough time to get a feeling of a city and visit some of its major sights. If I could do it again, I would definitely add one more day of visiting the rest of Ireland.

Is 4 days enough to visit Ireland? ›

Four days in Ireland is enough time to experience the best of what this wonderful country has to offer. With four days, you can explore Dublin and take a day trip to the countryside tour of some of the most stunning landscapes such as the Cliffs of Moher, Wicklow Mountains, Glendalough, and Kilkenny.

Is Dublin worth visiting? ›

History. If you're a history lover, Dublin has a lot to offer. The stunning Dublin Castle offers insightful tours of the history of the city, as well as the opportunity to view the beautiful state apartments. You might also be interested in a visit to Christ Church Cathedral, St Patrick's Cathedral or Kilmainham Gaol.

Is 9 days in Ireland enough? ›

Nine days in Ireland affords you enough time to explore the natural highlights, including the Cliffs of Moher, Dingle, and the Ring of Kerry, as well as the city hotspots in Dublin. Spend less time in the Republic of Ireland and concentrate on the dramatic scenery of Northern Ireland.

What is the best length of trip to Ireland? ›

There truly is a ton to see in Ireland. I would recommend a one week in Ireland itinerary minimum but I know people often visit for as little as 5 days. 2 weeks in Ireland is better and 3 weeks will allow you to see most of the country if you're moving at a decent pace (2-3 nights in each destination).

Should I go to Belfast or Dublin? ›

Belfast is by far a much cheaper city to visit than Dublin, one uses sterling and the other uses euros. Prices in Dublin when it comes to accommodation, eating out and visiting attractions are definitely way more expensive, whereas, in Belfast, its cheaper and you get more for your money which is really what you want.

What is the best way to travel around Ireland? ›

Train travel is generally the fastest way to get around the country. Iarnród Éireann (Irish Rail) (www.irishrail.ie; 1850/366222 or 01/836-6222) operates the train services in Ireland. Most lines radiate from Dublin to other principal cities and towns.

Is Dublin affordable to visit? ›

Dublin is not the cheapest city to explore in Europe but as usual, your trip is what you make it depending on your budget. During my time in Dublin, I kept it cheap with accommodations but allowed myself to splurge on food and activities.

How much money do you need to visit Ireland for a week? ›

The average price of a 7-day trip to Ireland is $1,305 for a solo traveler, $2,014 for a couple, and $2,987 for a family of 4. Ireland hotels range from $56 to $310 per night with an average of $99, while most vacation rentals will cost $160 to $490 per night for the entire home.

How do I get to the Cliffs of Moher from Dublin? ›

It's also possible to reach the Cliffs of Moher by public transport from Dublin, although this will take a bit of time as there's no direct route from Dublin. Buses run from Galway Bus station (route 350), and take just over two hours to get to the Cliffs.

Do I need a car in Ireland? ›

As you can see, traveling in Ireland without a car is possible when you plan ahead. Whether you take the train, the bus, or a combination of public transportation in Ireland, you'll still be able to access most of the country during your trip.

What is the number 1 tourist attraction in Dublin? ›

1. Irish Museum of Modern Art – Exhibiting the best from different eras. Nothing depicts Ireland's grandeur as beautifully as the Irish Museum of Modern Art! Also known as world's leading institution for collection and exhibition of modern arts, the IMMA is a place worth your visit.

What's Dublin most famous for? ›

What is Dublin famous for?
  • Guinness. Nothing beats a pint of Guinness and when it comes to the best places in the world to enjoy a pint of the black stuff – Dublin is obviously top of the list. ...
  • Georgian Architecture. ...
  • Pub Culture. ...
  • UNESCO City of Literature. ...
  • Dublin is a Friendly & Progressive city. ...
  • Excellent Accommodation.
Feb 24, 2020

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