Ireland’s very first urban beach opened in Dublin today, with a number of seaside themed activities on offer for those who have given up hope of enjoying a proper summer.
Following on from similar initiatves in Paris, Amsterdam and Berlin, George's Dock in the heart of the IFSC has been transformed into an artificial seascape from now until Sunday 20th July.
With Met Éireann predicting plenty of rain over the coming days, there's little likelihood of clear skies but the Dublin Docklands Development Authority (DDDA), is hopeful that the beach will prove to be something of an oasis for those wishing to bring a bit of sunshine into their lives.
George's Dock will be adorned for the occasion with palm trees, beach cabanas, lounge chairs, and refreshments served from a variety of beach huts.
Visitors can play games, take part in outdoor yoga classes, hire pedal boats or simply relax on a lounge chair while their children get busy building sandcastles.
If that's not enough, there's also a variety of seaside-inspired activities are also on offer including mini golf, beach soccer, and beach volley ball.
Several free themed nights will also take place including a Brazil night, a tango night and a salsa night.
"Docklands is very much a living, breathing and working neighbourhood and all the events and attractions at the Urban Beach have been selected with this very diverse audience in mind," said Paul Maloney, chief executive of the DDDA.
"Our community includes families, office workers, young people as well as visitors from the rest of the city and beyond and we were anxious to appeal to as many tastes and interests as possible," he added.
