Portmarnock AC Beach 5k Race 2026

The Portmarnock AC Beach 5k Race is a popular summer event run on the firm golden sand of the Velvet Strand in Portmarnock, on the northside coast of County Dublin. The race starts and finishes at The Shelters, by the main beach entrance near the ice cream kiosk, and follows a flat out-and-back loop along the strand, with panoramic views of Ireland's Eye and Howth Head. The compact, firm sand makes for a fast, flat course quite different from a standard road race, welcoming club runners, casual runners and walkers alike. Alongside the main 5km there is a 2km juvenile race and a 400m kids' colour run. Organised by Portmarnock Athletic Club, founded in 2012, as its flagship annual fundraiser, the chip-timed event is known for its festival-like beach-party atmosphere complete with music, a finisher t-shirt and the traditional free ice cream. It is a beloved fixture on the Dublin summer calendar.