To the south of the East Pier in Dún Laoghaire, lies the rocky coastline of Sandycove. A footpath runs from the East Pier and follows the coast east to the sheltered beach at Sandycove. There are various parking areas along the road. In winter, this stretch of coastline to the beach at Sandycove is one of the best areas for finding Mediterranean Gulls in Ireland from late summer to spring. In summer terns can be seen feeding in shallow bay offshore.  

Birds found at Dun Laoghaire and Sandycove

From autumn to spring the sea and harbour holds small numbers of Great Northern and Red-throated Divers while the piers are excellent for Turnstone, Dunlin and Purple Sandpiper. Razorbills, Guillemots and Black Guillemots are usually found in the inner harbour while the coast from the East Pier to Sandycove is the best place in Ireland for seeing Mediterranean Gulls in winter. Black Redstart is a regular winter visitor to this area. In summer large numbers of terns can be seen well offshore.