There’s something truly magical about photographing portraits at the edge of the sea — the soft wind, the sound of waves, and the warm glow that wraps around everything as the sun dips below the horizon. Dublin may be known for its city charm and green parks, but its coastline offers some of the most breathtaking spots for golden-hour portraits. Whether for couples, families, or professional portraits, these beaches bring together natural light, texture, and emotion — everything that makes a photo unforgettable.
1. Dollymount Strand
Stretching along North Bull Island, Dollymount offers vast open sands and uninterrupted views of Dublin Bay. The low tide reveals endless reflections — perfect for silhouettes and warm-toned portraits. The sunset here paints the sky in soft pinks and golds, creating a cinematic feel that pairs beautifully with natural, minimal styling.
2. Sandymount Strand
Closer to the city, and at the heart of charming Sandymount village, the strand feels calm and poetic. With staple Poolbeg Chimneys in the distance and the soft expanse of sand underfoot, it’s a wonderful choice for candid , modern family or couple sessions. The light just before sunset turns the beach into a mirror, ideal for capturing emotion and intimacy in gentle tones that fit Matchbox Photography’s beige and gold aesthetic. It’s been a backdrop for many of my maternity portrait sessions before.
3. Portmarnock Beach (Velvet Strand)
As elegant as its name, Portmarnock’s Velvet Strand is long, clean, and beautifully framed by Howth Head. The golden-hour light glows across the sand, giving every portrait a sun-kissed finish. It’s spacious enough for children to run freely, and the soft horizon line creates a timeless, minimal composition for artistic family portraits.
4. Killiney Beach
Limestone cliffs and pebbles, Killiney feels like a little piece of the Mediterranean. Surrounded by rocks and lush greenery, it offers a more textured, cinematic atmosphere. When the sun sets over the Dublin Mountains, the entire bay shimmers with copper tones — perfect for timeless , candid portraits on location.
5. White Rock Beach (Dalkey)
Hidden just beyond Killiney, this smaller cove feels intimate and secluded. The light reflects beautifully off the pale rocks and calm water, giving a soft, dreamy quality to images. It’s ideal for couples or maternity sessions where privacy and atmosphere matter most. It’s also a home to our local dolphins. Amazing for a vintage wedding portrait feel.
Each of these beaches tells a different story — from the wide, airy beauty of Dollymount to the quiet, romantic glow of White Rock. The Dublin coastline changes with every tide and sunset, but the feeling remains the same: connection, warmth, and the kind of light that turns simple moments into memories.
— Anna Nowakowska, Matchbox Photography
