One can simply appreciate the scenic seaside area for its own natural beauty and enjoy a day on the beach. One can enjoy a panoramic view of Howth and the Dublin Mountains, the spires, towers and chimneys of the city. Dublin harbour and its shipping and the mainland of Clontarf, Raheny, Sutton and Killbarrack. The water can be used for swimming, bathing, fishing or sailing. The beach itself is ideal for summer sunbathing, for picnics and barbecue parties, for walking, jogging and running.
Children can play and build sandcastles.
The island is patrolled by wardens and Dublin Corporation is at present preparing a long term plan to provide facilities or special zones for the various activities engaged in on the island. The dune complex is a public park with a difference - its natural character is quite distinct from the conforming landscaped environment of the regular urban park. The island is the largest city park under the control of Dublin Corporation Parks Department. Indeed when weather conditions are unfavourable on the Bull Island people tend to make use of Clontarf's more sheltered St. Anne's park. In this way the island and St. Anne's complement each other.