Howth Cliffs Hike: Dublin Bay Trails & Hidden Beaches

Summary

Hike wild Howth cliffs, meet locals, taste scones, feel the sea air

You’ll start your day in Howth with fresh scones and tea before hiking secret cliff paths with a local guide, spotting wild goats and hidden beaches along Dublin Bay. Pause above Baily Lighthouse for sweeping views and finish among locals at The Summit Inn or wandering back to Howth village—muddy boots guaranteed.

What’s the experience like?

I nearly missed the start because I got distracted by the smell of baking wafting out of House on Main Street — turns out that’s actually where we met for the Howth Safari Hiking Tour. There was this soft clatter of teacups and a few nervous laughs as we tried to guess who else was there for the hike. Our guide, Brian, handed me a scone still warm enough to melt the butter. I probably should’ve eaten slower but it was honestly too good. He asked where everyone was from and made a joke about Irish weather — which I thought was just polite small talk until we hit our first patch of mud ten minutes later.

The path around Shielmartin Hill felt like stepping into a different world. Heather brushing my shins, gulls overhead, and that salty-whatever-it-is smell you only get near the sea. Brian pointed out some old Irish goats munching on gorse — apparently they’re kind of famous here. Someone tried to get close for a photo but slipped (no harm done), and we all just cracked up. The cliffs open up suddenly and you see Dublin Bay spread out below, ships crawling toward the port. It’s not quiet exactly — wind in your ears, distant dog barking somewhere down by the beach — but it’s peaceful in its own messy way.

I didn’t expect to feel so far from Dublin city so quickly; it’s only half an hour away but you could be anywhere. We took these narrow trails that Brian said only locals really know (I believed him — I’d never have found them alone). At Red Rock we stopped for water and watched clouds shifting over the Baily Lighthouse. There was this moment where nobody talked at all, just looking at the sea stacks and caves below us. I still think about that view sometimes when things get noisy back home.

By the end my boots were muddy and my legs tired in that good way you get after a real walk. Some people peeled off at The Summit Inn for pints; I wandered back down toward Howth Harbour along old tramlines with two others from our group. We didn’t say much but it felt like we’d shared something worth keeping — even if it was just goat sightings and soggy socks.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Howth Safari Hiking Tour Highlights

• Meet at House restaurant for scones and tea
• Walk around Shielmartin Hill base
• Climb Shielmartin Hill for bay views
• Hike south facing cliffs spotting goats
• Visit hidden beaches along coast
• Rest at Red Rock and view ships
• Ascend cliff paths by Baily Lighthouse
• Reach Summit for panoramic views
• Descend tramlines back to Howth Harbour

Top questions

How long does the Howth Safari Hiking Tour take?

The tour typically lasts around half a day, depending on pace and route taken.

Is pickup included for this Howth hiking tour?

No hotel pickup is included; you meet at House restaurant on Main Street in Howth.

Are refreshments provided during the hike?

Yes, freshly baked scones plus tea or coffee are included at the start of your tour.

What fitness level is required for this hike?

You should have at least moderate physical fitness as trails can be steep or muddy.

Are children allowed on this hiking tour?

The minimum age is 12 years old; children must be accompanied by an adult.

Does the route change based on weather or tides?

Yes, guides may alter routes depending on tide times or weather conditions for safety.

Can service animals join this hiking tour?

Yes, service animals are allowed on this tour.

Is public transportation available to reach Howth?

Yes, there are public transport options nearby to get you to Howth village easily.

What’s included

Your day includes meeting your local guide in Howth village with freshly baked scones plus tea or coffee before setting off on guided cliffside trails; all routes are led by an expert familiar with secret paths and local wildlife—just bring sturdy footwear and weather-appropriate clothes.