Our Favourite Things to Do in Dublin This Summer (and the places we take the most photographs)
Summer in Dublin is great when the weather plays ball. The evenings are long and there's that lovely feeling of having time on your hands now the usual activities are on a break. Whether you're looking for a big day out or a simple afternoon wander, here are some of our favourite things to do when the sun comes out.
Killiney Beach
Killiney Beach is one we keep coming back to. The views across Dublin Bay are gorgeous and the stones are perfect for skimming. We love bringing a picnic and spending a couple of hours there with no particular plan. Combine it with a walk up Killiney Hill and you've got a brilliant full day out.
A Picnic in the Park
Sometimes the simplest things are the best. Packing a picnic and heading to the park for an afternoon is one of those summer traditions that children remember. St Enda's Park in Rathfarnham is a hidden gem. The walled gardens and woodlands are peaceful and the lavender comes up brilliantly in the summer. Marlay Park is another favourite, with its woodland paths and wide open green spaces. Both are spots we love to photograph families in too, especially on long summer evenings when everyone has relaxed and the kids are just being kids.
Marlay Park Playground
While you're in Marlay Park, the playground is worth a visit in its own right. It's one of the best in Dublin, spacious and genuinely fun for a wide range of ages. Bring a coffee, find a bench, and let them off.
Emerald Park
If you're looking for a full day out with a bit more excitement, Emerald Park in Meath is always a hit. There are rides, a zoo, and plenty to keep children entertained from morning to afternoon. It's one of those days where the kids come home completely worn out, which is always a win. Book in advance during the summer as it fills up fast. Our top tip is to go on the rollercoasters at the end of the day when the crowds start to thin out.
A Day in Town
You can't beat a trip into the city, and it can be great value too. The National Gallery on Merrion Square is free and has a lovely spot where children can make their own art. The National Museum of Archaeology on Kildare Street is another favourite, also free and genuinely interesting for curious kids. Afterwards, wander up to Grafton Street, stop at Bewley's for a hot chocolate or Gino’s Gelato for an ice cream, and finish with a visit to the playground in St Stephen's Green. A simple day, but the kids always love it.
A Walk Around Howth Head
Howth feels ages from the city even though it's only thirty minutes on the DART. The cliff walk is lovely in the summer and if the full loop feels like too much, the shorter walk down to the harbour is a good option, with plenty of fish and chip spots to reward tired legs. We love photographing families up here too — the clifftops and harbour on a summer evening are hard to beat.
The Hellfire Club Walk in the Dublin Mountains
For families who like a bit of adventure, the Hellfire Club walk is a great one. It's not too long or too difficult and the views over Dublin from the top are spectacular. The kids love the story of the old hunting lodge, and there's something about being up in the mountains that feels like a proper escape even though you're only twenty minutes from the city.
Dún Laoghaire Pier
A walk along Dún Laoghaire Pier is a classic Dublin afternoon. Sea air, views across the bay, and a Teddy's ice cream at the end. It's also one of our favourite spots for evening photography sessions.
Malahide Castle and Gardens
If the weather is good, Malahide Castle is a great spot outside the city. The grounds are beautiful, there's a butterfly house to explore, and the playground and fairy trail are always a hit with younger ones. The Avoca café is a favourite stop too. It's one of the spots we bring families to for sessions and it always delivers.
Enjoy Your Summer
I hope you have a brilliant summer and manage to fit in a few of these. And if you'd like to have some of it captured properly — an evening on Killiney Beach, a picnic in Marlay Park, a session somewhere that means something to your family — I'd love to hear from you.
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