County Donegal Cottages by the Sea

Explore Donegal’s Atlantic Beaches and Wild Coastline

County Donegal has a long and varied coastline, with sandy bays, rugged headlands and fishing harbours overlooking the Atlantic. Coastal holiday homes can be found around popular destinations including Bundoran, Downings, Portsalon and the Inishowen Peninsula. From traditional beach cottages to properties with sea views, there are plenty of places to stay close to Donegal’s beaches and coastal walking routes.

Sandy Beaches, Surfing and Coastal Villages

Rossnowlagh is one of Donegal’s best-known surfing beaches, with a long stretch of golden sand overlooking Donegal Bay. Further south, Bundoran is a popular seaside town with beaches, surf schools, cafés and restaurants.

On the Fanad Peninsula, Portsalon Beach, also known as Ballymastocker Strand, has a wide sandy shoreline overlooking Lough Swilly. Nearby Downings is a small seaside village with a sheltered beach and views across Sheephaven Bay.

Other beaches worth visiting include Marble Hill near Dunfanaghy, Carrickfinn near Annagry and Narin Beach near Portnoo.

Slieve League Cliffs, Fanad Head and Places to Visit

Slieve League is one of County Donegal’s best-known coastal landmarks, with towering sea cliffs and walking routes overlooking the Atlantic. Nearby Killybegs is a busy fishing port with seafood restaurants and a working harbour.

Further north, Fanad Head Lighthouse stands on a rocky headland overlooking the sea. The surrounding peninsula has sandy beaches, small villages and coastal viewpoints.

The Inishowen Peninsula is home to Malin Head, Ireland’s most northerly mainland point. Visitors can also explore Five Fingers Strand, known for its extensive sand dunes, and the nearby coastal villages of Culdaff and Greencastle.

For more coastal destinations around the country, see our collection of beach cottages and holiday homes throughout Ireland, including properties in County Galway, County Mayo and County Kerry.