Skerries is the kind of place you say ‘ah I could live here now’ every time you visit. Its Dublin’s OG holiday town for a reason. The place is made up of stunning views, a cracking food scene, and just the right mix of old-school charm and modern cool. It’s got history, it’s got personality, and—crucially—it’s got damn good places to eat, drink and be merry.
A Little Backstory (With a Goat in It)
Blame the Vikings for the name. Skerries’ name comes from the Old Norse sker, meaning rocky islands, and those islands have some serious folklore attached. The most famous? St. Patrick’s Island, where the man himself supposedly landed in 432 AD. He brought a goat for company (as you do), but the locals pinched it and threw a feast in his honour—without inviting him. Petty behaviour. In true saintly fashion, he cursed them, and they bleated like goats until they confessed. Lesson learned.
Today, St. Patrick’s Island is an iconic Skerries landmark, best admired while strolling along Red Island or digging into something delicious at one of the town’s many gems.
The Must-Visit Spots in Skerries
The Best in Baked: The Rock Bakery
There was a time when if a bakery wasn’t slap-bang in the city centre, people wouldn’t bother. No matter how life-changing the croissants were. But we’ve evolved. These days, we live for a pastry pilgrimage, and The Rock Bakery in Skerries is proof. This place has built a cult following, drawing dough devotees from all over Dublin to queue like they’re waiting for a limited-edition sneaker drop. And for good reason—their croissants are the real deal. Whether it’s the classic, almond, or a seasonal special, they all slap, but the OG butter croissant is a knockout. The kind that shatters in perfect golden layers, leaving a flurry of flakes all over your lap (a badge of honour, really). It’s right by the sea, so you get the full coastal experience with every bite. Pair a Blackberry & Pear Bearclaw with a 12oz latte (€8.00 total), take in the salty breeze, and remind yourself why some things are worth the journey.
The All Rounder: Goat in the Boat
If you haven’t been to Goat in the Boat, you need to fix that immediately. This place is a masterclass in doing things right. It’s small, family-run, and absolutely obsessed with quality, which is exactly what you want in a café.
Their gelato is all made in-house, and we’re talking proper, Italian-style perfection. The pistachio, vanilla, and hazelnut are faultless—no weird artificial nonsense, just deep, rich, proper flavours. And because they don’t believe in half measures, they also make their own pastries. The white chocolate and coconut tart? Unhinged levels of good. The coffee? Sourced from 3fe, so you already know it’s top-tier.
To sum it up: they’re the GOAT (sorry, had to).
The Hike/Walk: Red Island Coastal Trail
Start your day with the Red Island Coastal Trail, a breezy 1.5km loop that showcases Skerries’ natural beauty. Begin at the rugged South Beach, where the waves put on a show, and follow the path around the headland, circling the historic Martello Tower. Take a moment on one of the many benches to soak in views of the Mourne Mountains—legend has it that composer Percy French was so moved by this sight, he penned a song about the mountains “sweeping down to the sea.” The trail then leads you to the tranquil North Beach, perfect for a paddle or a sandy stretch.
The Swim: Captains and Springers
If you’re up for a dip, Skerries offers spots for both the seasoned swimmer and the casual bather. For the experienced, Captains and Springers on the south side provide invigorating swims, with Springers offering flat concrete for easy access. Be cautious, though; these areas can have strong currents and are best suited for confident swimmers. For a gentler experience, the sheltered waters of North Beach are ideal for a relaxing swim.
The Activity: Paddle Boarding with Skerries Paddle Tours
To truly embrace the coastal vibe, hop on a stand-up paddleboard with Skerries Paddle Tours. They offer guided sessions around the harbour, and if you time it right, a sunset paddle provides that perfect blend of serenity and stunning views. Whether you’re a newbie or a seasoned paddler, it’s an experience that captures the essence of Skerries’ maritime charm.
The Pint: Nealon’s
Some pubs feel like they’ve been there forever, and Nealon’s is one of them. It’s been holding down the fort in Skerries for nearly 50 years, and there’s a reason everyone raves about it.
This place has character. The walls are packed with old photos and local relics, giving you a crash course in Skerries history while you sip your pint. And speaking of pints, if you ever forget where you are, just look at the custom Guinness glasses—a small but deadly touch that sums up how much care goes into this place.
Nealon’s is the spot whether you’re warming up after a winter beach walk or settling in for a long night of scoops with the crew.
The Place to Sleep: Redbank House
After a day of exploration, rest your head at Redbank House, a charming guesthouse known for its cozy rooms and warm hospitality. Located in the heart of Skerries, it’s a stone’s throw from the harbour and all the local attractions. The on-site restaurant is a bonus, serving up fresh, locally sourced dishes that reflect the town’s seaside heritage.
The Place for a Little Dance: The Bus Bar
When the sun sets and you’re in the mood for some tunes and a tipple, The Bus Bar is the spot. Recently refurbished, this venue offers a lively atmosphere with live music and a selection of craft beers and cocktails. It’s the perfect place to mingle with locals and dance the night away in a friendly, vibrant setting.
The Skerries Rundown
Skerries is the spot for an easy escape from the city. You’ve got stunning walks, fresh sea air, and a food and drink scene that punches way above its weight. Whether you’re grabbing a gelato, settling in with a pint, or feasting on fire-cooked perfection, you’ll leave plotting your next trip back.
Honourable mentions? There’s too many to list properly, but Stoop Your Head, Blue Bar, Olive Deli, and Storm in a Teacup all deserve a look. Skerries knows how to do it right.
