Can I swim in the sea in Ireland, and when is the water warmest?
Yes, and people do in every month, but set your expectations by a cold water country. The sea warms slowly here: it is at its coldest, around 8 to 9 degrees, in late winter and early spring, climbs through the summer, and peaks at roughly 15 degrees in late August and into September, a touch warmer on the south coast than in the north. Water Safety Ireland's advice is the measure of a good swim: use a lifeguarded beach in the bathing season, which runs from 1 June to 15 September at designated beaches, enter the water slowly to avoid cold shock, stay within your depth and never swim after drinking. A wetsuit turns a bracing dip into a proper swim and extends the season at both ends.
Useful pages: The best time to visit Ireland · Irish weather, month by month · What to wear · Weather in Ireland · Experiencing the Irish coastline · Ireland's national parks · Outdoor adventures in Ireland · Travel notices · Ireland photography tips · Ireland weather guide
Sources
- Water Safety Ireland: bathing season and open water safety advice, watersafety.ie
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- Is Ireland worth visiting in winter, and what should I expect to be closed or quiet?