Open Water Swimming Directory
Discover Dublin's premier open water coaches and locations with advanced filtering and real-time search
2 coaching programs available
SwimCamp Open Water Clinics
All Ages • Kids & Teens 7-16 • Adults
Master the waves, boost fitness, and overcome fears with personalised coaching and safety skills. Perfect for all levels with supportive community and expert guidance to build confidence in open water environments. Led by national marathon swimmer Susan Dillon with extensive sports psychology expertise.
Ocean Breakers
Level 2 STA/Swim Ireland • World Record Holders
World record holders and internationally acclaimed open water swimming coaches. Expert one-to-one coaching tailored to your specific swim needs, whether completing your first triathlon or achieving podium finishes in marathon swims. Team includes former fastest English Channel solo swimmer Tom Kinsella.
Popular Open Water Swimming Locations in Dublin
Dollymount Strand
Sheltered bay waters, ideal for beginners and training groups
Bull Island, protected environment
Sandycove & Forty Foot
Famous year-round swimming location, deep water access
Historic gentlemen's bathing place
Clontarf
Protected waters, popular with training groups and clubs
Easy beach access, parking available
Seapoint
Deep water access, advanced swimmers, diving platform
DART accessible, tower and platform
Poolbeg
Open bay swimming, all levels, lighthouse views
Great Wall of Dublin walk
Killiney Bay
Scenic location, generally calmer waters, beautiful views
White Rock, Vico area
Important Note:
Always check local conditions, tides, and weather before entering open water. Never swim alone and consider joining established swimming groups for safety.
Open Water Training Programmes
Beginner Open Water
- • Water confidence building
- • Basic open water navigation
- • Safety awareness and protocols
- • Breathing techniques in waves
- • Entry and exit practise
- • Group swimming basics
Duration: 4-6 sessions
Prerequisites: Basic swimming ability
Triathlon Preparation
- • Race start techniques
- • Drafting and positioning
- • Sighting and navigation
- • Wetsuit swimming optimisation
- • Transition preparation
- • Race strategy development
Duration: 6-8 sessions
Prerequisites: Confident pool swimmer
Marathon Swimming
- • Long-distance technique efficiency
- • Feeding strategies and timing
- • Mental preparation and focus
- • Cold water acclimatisation
- • Channel crossing preparation
- • Support crew coordination
Duration: 12+ sessions
Prerequisites: Strong swimming background
Group Training
- • Peer motivation and support
- • Group swimming dynamics
- • Shared safety protocols
- • Social swimming community
- • Regular scheduled sessions
- • Progressive skill development
Duration: Ongoing membership
Prerequisites: Varies by group level
Open Water Safety Guidelines
Never Swim Alone
Always swim with a buddy or organised group for safety
High Visibility
Bright swim cap, consider tow float for visibility
Know Water Temperature
Check conditions, consider wetsuit for cold water
Emergency Preparation
Know local emergency contacts and exit points
Dublin Bay Safety Contacts
Emergency Services
999 or 112
Coast Guard
01 662 0922/23
Essential Open Water Swimming Equipment
Wetsuit
Essential for Dublin waters year-round. Provides warmth, buoyancy, and protection.
- • 3-5mm thickness recommended
- • Proper fit crucial for comfort
- • Try before buying
Swim Cap & Goggles
Bright coloured cap for visibility, quality goggles for clear vision.
- • Neon colours for visibility
- • Anti-fog goggles essential
- • Backup pair recommended
Safety Equipment
Tow float, whistle, and emergency contact information.
- • Tow float for visibility
- • Waterproof phone case
- • Emergency contact details
Frequently Asked Questions
Is open water swimming safe for beginners?
Yes, when done properly with qualified instruction. Our coaches prioritise safety above all else, starting with sheltered locations like Dollymount Strand. Beginners learn essential safety skills including water entry/exit, basic navigation, and emergency procedures before progressing to more challenging conditions. We recommend starting with group sessions for added safety and support.
What water temperature can I expect in Dublin Bay?
Dublin Bay temperatures range from 6-8°C in winter to 15-18°C in summer. Most swimmers wear wetsuits year-round for comfort and safety. Water feels coldest in February/March and warmest in August/September. Our coaches help you acclimatise gradually and advise on appropriate thermal protection for different seasons.
Do I need a wetsuit for open water swimming in Dublin?
Highly recommended for Dublin waters. A wetsuit provides warmth, buoyancy, and protection from jellyfish. Even strong swimmers benefit from the thermal protection and added safety. We recommend 3-5mm thickness for Irish waters. Many coaching programmes include wetsuit fitting advice and technique adaptation for swimming in neoprene.
How do I prepare for my first triathlon swim?
Start with open water confidence building, then progress to race-specific skills. Key areas include mass start techniques, sighting and navigation, drafting strategies, and wetsuit swimming efficiency. Our triathlon preparation programmes cover race simulation, transition practice, and mental preparation. Most athletes need 6-8 sessions to feel race-ready.
What's the difference between pool and open water swimming?
Open water presents unique challenges: no lane ropes or pool bottom for reference, variable conditions (waves, currents, temperature), navigation requirements, and different safety considerations. Swimming technique often needs adjustment for sighting, dealing with chop, and swimming in a straight line. Our coaches specialise in helping pool swimmers transition successfully to open water.
Can I join open water swimming groups as a beginner?
Absolutely! Many groups welcome beginners and offer different pace groups. We recommend starting with organised coaching sessions to learn safety fundamentals first. Popular beginner-friendly groups include SwimCamp Open Water Clinics and local swimming clubs with open water sections. Always inform group leaders of your experience level and any concerns.
Ready to Conquer Open Water?
From your first sea swim to channel crossings, Dublin's expert open water coaches will guide you safely through every stroke of your journey.