There is something magical about waking up before everyone else and watching the day unfold with a sunrise. So, here are the best places to watch the sunrise in Dublin.
They say that the best things in life are free, and this is certainly the case when you choose to wake up early to experience the magic of a sunrise – an epic Irish sunrise that is.
It is a proven fact that seeing the sunrise adds positivity to your day, releases stress, and allows you time to yourself before the day kicks off.
So if this sounds like a plan then check this out. Here are the ten best places to watch the sunrise in Dublin.
10. Montpelier Hill – the Hellfire Club
One of the best choices for a bird’s eye view of the sunrise in Dublin is Montpelier Hill, which is 1,257 ft (383 m) high and is located between Rathfarnham and Glencullen.
It is commonly referred to as the Hellfire Club and is a relatively easy walk from the car park to the viewing point. This is a great place to sit, relax, sip on a hot coffee, and watch the world wake up below.
Address: Montpelier, Co. Dublin
9. Sandymount Strand – sunrise and breakfast
Nothing compares to a beach sunrise, and Sandymount is a stunning location to witness this morning ritual.
It is located beside the town of Sandymount on the southside of the city, which makes it an easy place to find a breakfast spot afterwards.
Address: Sandymount, Co. Dublin
8. Samuel Beckett Bridge – watch the city wake up
You don’t need to find a mountain to climb or a beach to sit on to witness the sunrise in Dublin. One of the best spots to see the city slowly come alive is from the famous and iconic Samuel Beckett Bridge in the heart of the city.
The change in colours makes a perfect opportunity for sunrise city photography.
Address: Co. Dublin
7. Dollymount Strand – a viewing point of 5 km
Bull Island’s beautiful beach is one of Dublin’s best-kept secrets, and because of its perfect location sweeping along the east coast for 5 km (3.1 miles), it is a mesmerizing place to watch the sunrise in Dublin.
Parking is easy and it is easily reachable from anywhere on the north side of Dublin – or even the southside assuming there is no traffic pre-sunrise.
Address: Clontarf, Dublin
6. Sandycove Beach – for a sunrise and a swim
Sandycove Beach is very popular with families due to its shallow and calm water. So, if it is a sunrise dip you are after, this is an amazing spot to choose.
There may be mental health benefits from watching the sunrise, but there are physical benefits from a cold swim, too. So, why not take the plunge and set yourself up for the day?
Address: Sandycove, Co. Dublin
5. Carrickgollogan Hill – sunrise above Dublin
Another top spot is in the Dublin Mountains – Carrickgollogan Hill, to be exact, which is located close to Kiltiernan village in south County Dublin.
It is 906 ft (276 m) high, which means the views are rather stunning from the top, making it an ideal place to sit back and enjoy the benefits of an early start.
The summit is renowned for having great views over south Dublin and north Wicklow, which makes it a top location.
Address: Carrickgollogan, Ballyman, Co. Dublin
4. Dun Laoghaire Pier – a local favourite for the sunrise in Dublin
This famous pier has always been a top spot for socialising, strolling, having an ice cream, or watching the boats come in and out. However, it is an epic spot for watching the sunrise, too.
Dun Laoghaire Pier is always quite busy, so it will be a rarity to be there with little or no people staring out to the sea as another day begins.
Address: E Pier, Glasthule, Co. Dublin
3. Killiney Hill – an easily accessible hilltop in the south
If watching the sunrise from above captures your attention, then Killiney Hill must be added to your sunrise Dublin bucket list, just make sure to avoid the inclement weather.
The hill is 501 ft (153 m) high, so it is easily accessible and offers some stunning views from the top. You can enjoy panoramic views over the city while being close to Killiney and Dalkey villages, which are ideal for a pre-sunrise snack or post sunrise brekkie.
Address: Scalpwilliam, Dublin
2. Ticknock Mountain – sunrise from the Dublin Mountains
You can hike to the top of Ticknock. However, so early in the morning, you might want to drive and park the car instead to make your way to the intimate location.
Make sure to walk a little further to the Fairy Castle point, which has unsurpassable views over Dublin Bay and makes for one of the best sunrise experiences in Dublin.
Address: Ballyedmonduff, Co. Dublin
1. Howth Cliff – one of the best views in Dublin
The Howth Cliff Walk is a stunning coastal trail that has amazing views out to the east. Seeing the sunrise from here gives you a whole other perspective, and it is not something people see every day.
This popular spot is generally busy on sunny days, especially during the summer. Still, you might find that if you go here to watch the sunrise, you could have it all to yourself and what a gift that can be.
Address: Howth, Co. Dublin
If you are a morning person or hope to be one day, then hopefully these best places to see the sunrise in Dublin will inspire you to start the day in the best way possible, whether that be from the mountains or the coast.
Other notable mentions
The Docklands: Take a casual stroll here for an amazing sunrise by the Liffey.
Skerries: Skerries is one of the ideal spots in Dublin for views of the sunrise and is one of the best Dublin commuter towns.
Clontarf: Tackle the crisp morning in Clontarf, which is one of our favourite spots to see the sunrise in Dublin.
Poolbeg Lighthouse: Poolbeg is an ideal location to take a crisp morning walk to see the sunrise.
FAQs about the sunrise in Dublin
What is the best way to get around Dublin?
Dublin Bus, Luas tram, or the DART train are the easiest and most practical ways to get around the busy place.
What is Dublin’s most famous attraction?
Trinity College, which has one of the best art galleries in Dublin, and Temple Bar are two of the most famous attractions in Dublin. Other attractions in the city centre include the G.P.O., which is in a convenient location on O’Connell Street.
What is the best thing to do in Dublin?
Have a creamy Guinness at the Guinness Storehouse.
Where can I see sunrise in Dublin?
As Dublin is a coastal city with plenty of hills, mountains, and other view points, you’ll have plenty of options when it comes to seeing the sunrise in Dublin.
What time is first light in Dublin?
On the longest day of the year, sunrise in Dublin occurs at 04:57 am. In contrast, the sun rises at 08:40 am on the shortest day of the year.
Where does the sun rise and set in Ireland?
The sun rises in the east and sets in the west.
