Things To Do
in Rush

Rush is a small coastal village in north County Dublin, perched along Dublin Bay. It features two long sandy beaches, a working harbor, and scenic sea-washed promenades. The town serves as a relaxed base for exploring the north Dublin coast and nearby nature reserves.

Expect a friendly, close-knit community with easy access to Dublin city via DART or road.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring Rush Beach
morning
:

Start your day with a refreshing walk along Rush Beach, where the gentle sounds of the waves create a soothing atmosphere. Take in the picturesque views of the Irish Sea while enjoying the fresh coastal air. Grab a coffee at a nearby café to fuel your adventure.

afternoon
:

After your beach walk, visit the local market to experience the vibrant culture of Rush. Sample local produce and artisanal goods, and meet friendly vendors who share stories about their crafts. Spend some time browsing unique shops in the village and picking up souvenirs.

evening
:

As the day winds down, dine at a cozy pub that offers traditional Irish fare and a lively ambiance. Engage with locals and perhaps listen to some live music that captures the spirit of the region. Stroll back along the beach at sunset, enjoying the stunning colors reflecting off the water.

day 2
Historical Discoveries
morning
:

Begin your morning with a visit to the impressive St. Maur's Church, notable for its beautiful architecture and rich history. Take a moment to appreciate its serene surroundings and learn about its significance to the local community. A guided tour can provide deeper insights into its past.

afternoon
:

Head to the nearby historic site of the Rush Lighthouse after a satisfying lunch. The lighthouse offers stunning views and is a great spot for photography. Spend some time exploring the area and learning about its maritime history.

evening
:

As evening approaches, enjoy a meal at a local seafood restaurant, where you can savor freshly caught fish and seafood dishes. Experience the warm hospitality of the Irish people as you chat with fellow diners. Conclude your day with a leisurely walk under the stars along the coastline.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$15-22
Coffee in cafe$3-5
🍽️Meal for 2 at mid-range restaurant$40-70
🏨1 night in a mid-range hotel$90-150
🚎Public transit ticket (1 ride)$3-6

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Scenic coast and beaches
  • Close to Dublin with easy access to urban amenities
  • Small town feel may mean limited nightlife
  • Seasonal tourism can cause crowds in peak season
  • "Dia duit" - Hello
  • "Conas atá tú?" - How are you?
  • "Le do thoil" - Please
  • "Go raibh maith agat" - Thank you
  • "Slán" - Goodbye

Places to Visit in Rush

Visit one of these nice places.

Rush Beach South

Long sandy stretch offering sunrise and golden-hour images with Dublin Bay as a backdrop.

Rush Harbour and Pier

Working harbor with fishing boats and moored yachts; great for sunset silhouettes.

Dublin Bay Coastal Viewpoints along the R128

Coastal viewpoints along the main route with sweeping sea and sky photography opportunities.

Culinary Guide

Food in Rush

Rush’s coastal location lends itself to fresh seafood and hearty Irish classics, with casual pubs and family-run eateries.

Rush Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Seafood chowder

Creamy chowder made with fresh local fish, often served with soda bread.

Must-Try!

Fish and chips

Crispy battered fish with chips, commonly found at seaside eateries.

Irish stew

Hearty lamb or mutton stew with potatoes and carrots, a rustic staple.

Soda bread with smoked salmon

Buttery soda bread topped with locally smoked salmon.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Donabate Farmers Market

Seasonal stalls with seafood, cheeses, vegetables, and baked goods.

Howth Market

Vibrant market offering seafood, crafts and street food; a great day-trip from Rush.

Climate Guide

Weather

Rush has a temperate maritime climate with mild winters and cool summers; weather can change quickly with frequent rain showers and sea breezes; average highs range from around 6-20°C (43-68°F) depending on season.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings and politeness

Greet with a friendly Dia duit (Hello) or simply 'Hello'; be courteous in pubs; queuing is common.

Driving and traffic etiquette

Drive on the left; pass on the right; be patient on narrow coastal roads.

Tipping and hospitality norms

Small talk and cordiality are common; accept offers politely and show appreciation.

Respect for privacy

Respect private property and protected coastal areas; avoid intrusive photography near homes.

Safety Guide

Safety

Rush is generally safe for visitors; be mindful of coastal tides, slippery rocks and strong winds near the water; stick to marked paths and monitor children; dial 112/999 in emergencies.

Tipping in Rush

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

Tipping is customary but not mandatory; rounding up the bill or leaving 10-15% for good service is common in restaurants; many places include service charges.

Payment methods

Cards and contactless payments are widely accepted; cash is convenient in smaller shops and markets; some rural spots may have limited ATMs.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Mild to warm days with long daylight hours; expect more beachgoers and occasional rain; great for outdoor activities.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures with colorful foliage; sea breezes linger; good for photography and fresh seafood markets.

Winter

Mild and wet; shorter days; enjoy cozy pubs and indoor attractions; bring rain gear.

Nightlife Guide

Rush at Night

Rush offers a relaxed nightlife centered around traditional pubs with occasional live music; for broader options, Dublin city center is a short DART ride away with a wide range of bars and venues.

Hiking in Rush

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Donabate to Malahide Coastal Walk

Scenic coastal trail along Dublin Bay with water views, ideal for day hikes.

Portrane Coastal Walk

Coastal path along sea cliffs with sea breeze and expansive views.

Howth Cliff Walk

A longer scenic loop with clifftop views over Dublin Bay; accessible from Howth nearby.

Airports

How to reach Rush by plane.

Dublin Airport (DUB)

Main international gateway for the region; about 25-30 miles (40-50 km) from Rush; easy access by road or rail.

Getting Around

Walkability

Rush is relatively walkable, especially along the coast and the village center; having a car helps for visiting farther beaches and nearby towns; some coastal or rural sections require walking on narrow roads.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Many residents are families seeking outdoor space and easy access to Dublin.

Commuters

A number of residents commute to Dublin for work via DART or road links.

Retirees

A portion of residents enjoy the slower pace and natural surroundings.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Gaelic games (GAA) and soccer

Local clubs participate in Gaelic football and hurling; soccer is popular in coastal towns.

Golf

Several courses within a short drive offering coastal views.

Transportation

Traffic

Rush experiences generally light traffic; Dublin-bound commuters use the DART or bus networks. On weekends and holidays, coastal routes can be busier, and the R128 may see slowdowns near popular beaches.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Rush.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Vegetarian options are widely available; ask for veggie-friendly dishes or seafood-based meals as needed.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Ireland is provided via the public system (HSE). Rush has local GP clinics; in emergencies call 112/999. Major Dublin hospitals (Beaumont, St. James', Tallaght) serve the region; private clinics are available for appointments.

Discover Ireland

Read more in our Ireland 2025 Travel Guide.

Ireland Travel Guide