Ireland’s coastline, with its dramatic cliffs, pristine beaches, and charming villages, is a major draw for tourists. This consistent demand makes coastal properties a potentially lucrative investment for Airbnb hosts. The key to success lies in choosing locations that offer a strong balance of accessibility, unique attractions, and consistent tourist footfall. Here are 14 of the best coastal locations in Ireland to invest in for Airbnb, broken down by region.
Wild Atlantic Way (West and South Coasts)
The Wild Atlantic Way is a world-renowned coastal touring route, guaranteeing a steady stream of tourists throughout the year, with a peak in the summer.
- Dingle, Co. Kerry: A quintessential Irish town known for its vibrant music scene, colorful pubs, and breathtaking landscapes of the Dingle Peninsula. It’s a top-tier tourist destination with strong demand for short-term rentals.
- Kinsale, Co. Cork: This historic and picturesque town is a culinary capital with a stunning harbor. It attracts a high-end tourist market, which can support premium nightly rates for quality accommodation.
- Clifden, Co. Galway: Known as the capital of Connemara, Clifden is surrounded by majestic mountains and rugged coastline. It’s a hub for outdoor enthusiasts and offers a gateway to some of the most scenic parts of the Wild Atlantic Way.
- Westport, Co. Mayo: Consistently voted one of the best places to live in Ireland, Westport is a popular tourist destination with a bustling town center and access to Croagh Patrick and the Great Western Greenway. It appeals to a wide range of visitors, from families to hikers.
- Lahinch, Co. Clare: Ireland’s surfing capital, Lahinch has a consistent flow of visitors drawn by its famous waves and stunning beach. The town offers a strong year-round market due to its popularity with surfers and coastal walkers.
- Dunfanaghy, Co. Donegal: Located on a beautiful stretch of coastline, Dunfanaghy offers a more rugged and authentic coastal experience. Its proximity to Glenveagh National Park and the stunning Horn Head drive makes it a great location for nature-loving guests.
- Doolin, Co. Clare: Famous for its traditional music pubs and as the gateway to the Cliffs of Moher and the Aran Islands, Doolin is a major tourist hotbed. Its unique cultural identity and strategic location ensure high occupancy rates throughout the year.
The East and Southeast Coasts
These locations benefit from proximity to Dublin and a strong domestic tourism market, in addition to international visitors.
- Howth, Co. Dublin: Just a short train ride from Dublin city center, Howth is a charming fishing village with a famous cliff walk and a renowned seafood market. It’s an ideal location for an Airbnb targeting city visitors who want a coastal escape.
- Greystones, Co. Wicklow: A high-end seaside town with a reputation for excellent amenities and a vibrant community. The scenic cliff walk to Bray attracts many visitors, and its accessibility to Dublin makes it a popular choice for both short breaks and longer stays.
- Bray, Co. Wicklow: A traditional Victorian seaside resort, Bray has a long promenade, a famous cliff walk, and easy access to Dublin. It’s a highly accessible and well-known destination with a strong, diverse tourist base.
- Tramore, Co. Waterford: The premier seaside resort in the Southeast, Tramore is a classic holiday destination for Irish families. Its long sandy beach, amusement park, and surf schools ensure a bustling summer season.
- Curracloe, Co. Wexford: Home to a long stretch of beautiful sandy beach, Curracloe is known for being the filming location for the opening scenes of “Saving Private Ryan.” It’s a hugely popular location for both family holidays and film buffs.
The Islands and Northern Coast
These locations are often sought out for their unique character and sense of escape, appealing to a specific type of traveler.
- Achill Island, Co. Mayo: Ireland’s largest island, Achill is connected to the mainland by a bridge and offers a wild, untamed beauty. It’s a top destination for outdoor activities like hiking and cycling, attracting a dedicated clientele.
- Causeway Coast, Co. Antrim (Northern Ireland): While technically in the UK, the Causeway Coast is a global tourist destination. With attractions like the Giant’s Causeway and the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, it attracts millions of visitors. Its dramatic landscape and international appeal make it a premium investment location.
