Dunmore East Village — Things to Do on the Waterford Coast

Dunmore East is one of Ireland's most beautiful coastal villages — a working fishing harbour, dramatic cliffs, sandy beaches, and a genuine community character that draws visitors back year after year. The Spinnaker Bar is at the heart of it.

About Dunmore East

Dunmore East is a fishing village on the south coast of Co. Waterford, situated at the western head of Waterford Harbour where it meets the Celtic Sea. It is approximately 16 kilometres south-east of Waterford City and has long been one of the most popular summer destinations in the south-east of Ireland.

The village sits on a dramatic stretch of coastline — red sandstone cliffs, sheltered coves, and a working harbour that has been the livelihood of the community for centuries. Unlike many Irish coastal resorts, Dunmore East retains genuine character and a working community identity, which makes it attractive to visitors looking for something beyond the typical tourist experience.

The Harbour

Dunmore East Harbour is a working commercial fishing harbour and one of the most important on the south coast of Ireland. The fleet that operates out of Dunmore East supplies fish to markets across Ireland and Europe. Watching the boats come and go, seeing the catch being landed, and being in the proximity of a genuine working maritime community is a unique experience that visitors find compelling.

The harbour area is also home to a sailing club and marina, attracting recreational boaters and adding to the activity of the waterfront. The Spinnaker Bar sits at the harbour entrance — the perfect vantage point for watching the comings and goings of the village's seafaring life.

Beaches Near Dunmore East

Dunmore East has several beaches within easy walking or short driving distance:

• Councillors Strand: The main village beach — sheltered, calm, and ideal for families with children. A short walk from the harbour.
• Barrons Strand: A quieter beach to the west of the village, popular with locals and those who know the area well.
• Ladies Cove: A beautiful sheltered cove that's a particular favourite for swimming. Accessed via a cliff path from the village.

Cliff Walks

The cliff walks around Dunmore East are among the most dramatic and beautiful coastal walks in Waterford. The red sandstone cliffs that characterise this stretch of coast provide extraordinary scenery — views across the Celtic Sea, back into Waterford Harbour, and along the Wexford coast on a clear day. The walks are manageable for most fitness levels and accessible from the village.

Fishing and Water Activities

Sea angling is popular at Dunmore East, with the harbour providing access to excellent fishing grounds. Sea kayaking and coastal walks attract outdoor enthusiasts. The Dunmore East Sailing Club organises events and activities through the summer season.

After Your Day Out

After a day on the beaches, the cliff walks, or the harbour, The Spinnaker Bar is the natural place to end the day. Cold pints, fresh seafood, warm atmosphere, and — on many evenings — live music or a big match on the screens. It's the perfect conclusion to a Dunmore East day.

Ring (051) 383 133 to book your table at The Spinnaker. See what's on the menu →