Day 1: Sea Air & Adventure 

Morning: Arrival & Coastal Coffee

Arrive in Dunmore East, a picturesque fishing village set along Waterford Harbour. Start slow with a coffee and a wander around the harbour, taking in the boats, sea air, and colourful thatched cottages.

Late Morning: Kayaking & Sea Adventure

Head to Dunmore Adventure for your first taste of the sea.

Choose from a wide range of activities:

• Guided kayaking tours along the cliffs and coves
• Stand-up paddleboarding
• Sea safari boat tour exploring the coastline

The sheltered coves here make it an ideal place for beginners, while still offering plenty of adventure.

Lunch: Seafood by the Waves

Pop over to East Pier to refuel with the freshest seafood in a relaxed outdoor dining setting. Take in the sights and sounds of a lively harbour while enjoying locally sourced and expertly prepared food.

Afternoon: Cliff Walk & Sea Swim

Set out from Dunmore East Harbour and follow the coastal path west for one of the most scenic walks along Ireland’s southeast coast.

This clifftop trail offers:

• Sweeping views across Waterford Harbour and Hook Head
• Dramatic red sandstone cliffs
• Opportunities to spot seabirds, such as kittiwakes, cormorants, and choughs

There are two options for your expedition along the cliff walk.

Option 1: Harbour → Portally Cove (recommended for most visitors)

Approx. 6 km total route | Moderate difficulty

Follow the coastal path from the harbour to Portally Cove, a secluded inlet tucked beneath the cliffs, where you can:

• Take a break on the pebble beach
• Enjoy a swim in a more sheltered setting
• Soak in the sound of the waves in a quiet, off-the-beaten-track spot

This spot is one of the highlights of the walk and is ideal for most visitors.

Option 2: Harbour → Ballymacaw Cove (for experienced walkers)

Approx. 15 km total route | Strenuous difficulty

If you’re feeling more adventurous, continue beyond Portally Cove towards Ballymacaw Cove. This extended walk rewards you with:

• More remote stretches of coastline
• Additional coves and viewpoints
• A slightly larger beach, ideal for sea swimming in a more open setting

Walkers can tailor the distance depending on how far they wish to go, from shorter sections to the full extended route.

Evening: Dinner & Stay by the Sea

After a day by the sea, settle in for a relaxed evening at The Haven Hotel, beautifully set overlooking the harbour.

Check into your room and freshen up before enjoying a seasonal dinner showcasing fresh, local ingredients. Then, settle into a cosy spot in the bar for drinks, live music, and entertainment.

Take your time, linger over a drink, and enjoy the rhythm of the evening before turning in for the night.

Day 2: On-the-Water Experiences

Morning: Harbour Cruise from Dunmore East

Start your day back on the water with a coastal adventure departing from Dunmore East.

Set out with South East Charters for a guided journey along Waterford Harbour and the surrounding coastline. During your cruise, you can:

• Take in views of the cliffs and hidden coves from the water
• Learn about the area’s maritime history
• Keep an eye out for local wildlife; sightings often include seals, dolphins, and porpoises, along with a variety of seabirds along the coastline

Early Afternoon: Travel to Tramore

After your cruise, make your way to Tramore (approx. 25 min drive). Stop into Mezze for coffee and light bites. This bright, welcoming spot is known for its fresh, flavourful dishes and relaxed atmosphere. It’s the perfect place to pause, refuel, and ease into your afternoon by the coast.

Afternoon: Back Strand Walk or Horse Riding Experience

Approx. 5.5 km total route | Easy difficulty

From here, head towards Tramore’s sand dunes to experience a quieter, more rugged side of the beach. Take a walk along the back strand, around the dunes, and continue back to Tramore town along the beach. This ever-changing dune system, formed over thousands of years, is rich in rare wildlife and coastal flora, offering a truly unique natural landscape to explore.

Please be mindful that the dunes are a legally protected Special Area of Conservation, and you should follow the principles of Leave No Trace to ensure the area is undisturbed. 

A Wilder Path: Experience Tramore Beach on Horseback

For something a little more adventurous, book a beach tour with Lake Tour Stables. Explore Tramore’s coastline on horseback, riding along the open strand with panoramic sea views for a truly unforgettable way to experience the area.

Late Afternoon: Late Lunch by the Sea

After your walk or horseback excursion, head to One the Waterfront. This laid-back coastal restaurant offers stunning sea views and a relaxed dining experience. It’s an ideal spot for a long, leisurely lunch; think fresh, seasonal dishes and the sound of the sea just steps away.

Early Evening: Sea Swim at The Guillamene

Before heading back to Dunmore East for the evening, stop off at The Guillamene, a popular swimming spot, for a quick dip or simply to relax by the water.

Evening: Freshen Up & Dinner at The Haven

Make your way back to Dunmore East (approx. 25 min drive) and return to The Haven Hotel. Take some time to freshen up before heading down for the evening.

Enjoy a delicious dinner, drinks in the bar, and live music and entertainment.

Day 3: Sunrise Swims & Coastal Calm

Early Morning: Sunrise Swim in Dunmore East

Start your final day early with a refreshing sea swim in Dunmore East, before the village starts to wake up. The calm morning waters and quiet surroundings make this a particularly special time to experience the sea; peaceful, still, and invigorating.

After your swim, warm up with a session at The Hot Pod. Set overlooking the water, this outdoor sauna experience is the perfect way to:

• Relax tired muscles
• Take in coastal views
• Ease into the day at a slower pace

Late Morning: Breakfast in Tramore

After packing your bags and checking out, make your way to Tramore (approx. 25 min drive).

Pop into The Majestic Hotel for a hearty breakfast. A long-standing landmark overlooking Tramore Bay, The Majestic offers a welcoming setting to start your day. Expect freshly prepared options and views out towards the sea.

Late Morning / Midday: Doneraile Walk

Approx. 5 km total route | Easy difficulty

Set off on the Doneraile Walk, a scenic loop that takes you through a mix of coastal views, quiet roads, and local heritage.

This walk offers:

• Panoramic views over Tramore Bay
• A gentle, easy-paced route
• A chance to experience a quieter side of the bustling town

Lunch: Casual Dining in Tramore

After your walk, stop for lunch at O’Shea’s Hotel. A well-loved local spot, O’Shea’s offers a relaxed, traditional dining experience. Expect hearty, satisfying dishes and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.

Afternoon: Japanese Gardens

Next, visit the Lafcadio Hearn Japanese Gardens.

These beautifully curated gardens offer a peaceful and reflective experience, inspired by the life of writer Lafcadio Hearn. It’s a calm contrast to the energy of the coastline, with winding paths, quiet corners, and thoughtful design throughout.

Evening: Onward Journey

From here, begin your onward journey, leaving with a real sense of Waterford’s coastline, from early morning swims to slow, scenic afternoons by the sea.