With Irish weather being what it is, it pays to grab the good days when they come. Waterford is one of the best counties in the country for getting outdoors with the kids — think golden beaches, ancient woodland, dramatic clifftop paths and a genuinely rare bit of bogland right on the doorstep of the county.
Whether you’re after a gentle picnic spot, a proper family walk, or a beach day with room to run, here are some of the best outdoor places in Waterford for families to enjoy together.
Outdoor Places in Waterford for Families
Fenor Bog
Fenor Bog was designated Waterford’s first national nature reserve in 2004, and it’s a genuinely special spot. It’s home to a rich mix of rare plants, birds and butterflies, all thriving in this protected wetland habitat.
A raised walkway takes you across the bog itself, so little legs (and buggies) can explore without getting stuck in the mud, and there’s a picnic area if you want to make a morning of it.
Saleens Beach
Saleens Beach is a long, quiet stretch of sand — lovely for a picnic and a paddle in the shallows, though it’s not suitable for swimming. To find it, head out from Waterford City towards Dunmore; you’ll pass a small country pub on the left, and the turn for Saleens is on the right, about a mile further on. As with any lesser-signposted spot, it’s worth checking your route before you set off.
Copper Coast European Geopark
The Copper Coast Geopark is one of a select group of designated European and Global Geoparks — and the only one in the Republic of Ireland. It’s a stretch of coastline shaped by mining history and geology as much as by the sea.
There are several walking trails through the Geopark, and you can find maps and route photos to explore it independently. Guided walks also run during the summer months, which are a lovely way to get more of the story behind the landscape.
Faithlegg Forest Walk
Faithlegg and nearby Minaun Hill offer woodland walking trails with genuinely spectacular views over the surrounding countryside, plus a picnic site if you fancy stopping for lunch along the way.
Ardmore Cliff Walk
This 5km walk starts just past the Cliff House hotel car park. The route follows the road before joining a path that winds along clifftop paths, minor roads and laneways, taking in Ardmore Round Tower — one of the best-preserved in Ireland — a 12th-century cathedral, and a lookout post with wonderful coastal views. It’s a fantastic outing for older kids who are up for a proper walk, with plenty of history to keep them interested along the way.
Waterford Beaches
Waterford’s coastline is one of its biggest draws for families. A few favourites:
#### Tramore
Five kilometres of golden, sandy beach with room for everyone — plus opportunities for surfing, sailing and sea kayaking if you want to make a day of it.
#### Dunmore East
A Blue Flag beach with sheltered, picturesque coves that are lovely for swimming or snorkelling.
#### Counsellors Strand
A south-facing beach nestled between red sandstone cliffs, and one of the most popular spots with locals and visitors alike. The beach is lifeguarded throughout the bathing season.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Saleens Beach safe for swimming?
No — Saleens Beach is best suited to picnics, paddling and beachcombing rather than swimming.
What is the Copper Coast Geopark?
It’s a designated European and Global Geopark along the Waterford coastline, and the only one of its kind in the Republic of Ireland. It offers walking trails you can explore independently, as well as guided walks in summer.
Which Waterford beach is Blue Flag rated?
Dunmore East holds Blue Flag status, with sheltered coves that are ideal for swimming and snorkelling.
Is the Ardmore Cliff Walk suitable for young children?
It’s a 5km route along clifftop paths and laneways, so it suits older, confident walkers best. Families with younger children may prefer a shorter outdoor spot from this list, such as Fenor Bog or Faithlegg.
More Family Days Out
If you enjoyed this guide, you might also like:
- Family-Friendly Walks Around the South East
- Best Beaches in Ireland for Families
- Free Things to Do with Kids in Ireland
Save These Ideas for Later
Not heading out today? Bookmark this page or save it to your phone so you’ve got a ready-made list of Waterford outdoor spots for the next dry afternoon.
Get More Ideas Like This
Want more days-out inspiration delivered straight to your inbox? Sign up for the MyKidsTime newsletter for weekly ideas on things to do with the kids, family-friendly recipes, and parenting tips — no spam, just useful stuff for busy parents.
