Why Families Love Rush (and Why You Might Too)

From seaside strolls to strong schools and a real sense of community, here’s why Rush is becoming a favorite for families living in Dublin.

Beaches That Feel Like Your Backyard

Rush has two family-friendly beaches — North and South — both calm and walkable. They’re perfect for morning strolls, sandcastle building, and even paddling in the summer.

• North Beachis more sheltered, making it great for younger kids.
• South Beachis longer, ideal for dog walks and kite flying.

You’ll often find parents pushing buggies along the coast or kids collecting shells. Life here happens by the sea.

Schools with Strong Community Roots

Rush is home to several well-regarded schools, each with a close-knit feel and strong connection to the community:

• St. Catherine’s National School – welcoming and well-established
• Gaelscoil Ros Eó – an Irish-language school with great feedback
• St. Joseph’s Secondary School – a natural next step for older children

Many families cite the schools as one of the key reasons they moved here.

Clubs & Activities for Every Age

From toddlers to teenagers, there’s no shortage of activities in Rush. Whether your child loves sport, drama, sailing or creativity, there’s something for everyone:

• GAAand soccer clubs
• Rush Sailing Club, with youth programs
• Cricket, martial arts, gymnastics, dance
• Millbank Theatre’s youth group, fostering local talent

It’s a great way for kids to stay active and make friends — and for parents to meet other locals too.

A Walkable Town With All the Essentials

Rush is big enough to have what you need, but small enough to feel connected.

You’ll find supermarkets like SuperValu and Tesco Express, independent cafés, pharmacies, a health centre, and dentists — all within a short walk or drive.

It’s easy to run errands with a toddler in tow or stop for a coffee after school drop-off.

A True Sense of Community

Rush still has that small-town magic. People say hello on the street. There are community WhatsApp groups, charity events, and beach cleanups led by local families.

Highlights of the year include:

• The Christmas Parade
• Seasonal markets and fairs
• Rush Harbour Festival
• Local theatre productions with kids and teens involved

It’s the kind of town where your child’s teacher might also coach the local team — and that’s part of the charm.

Final Thoughts

Rush blends nature, convenience, and a strong sense of belonging — just 40 minutes from Dublin city. If you're looking for a place to raise a family without sacrificing quality of life, this seaside town might be just what you need.