Located on the far West Coast, and home to Ireland’s tallest mountain, County Kerry has something for everyone. Whether you're drawn to windswept coastlines, charming villages, or the allure of scenic hiking trails, this blog post is your guide to some of the must-see places in County Kerry.

Enchanting Beaches

County Kerry is home to some of the most astounding beaches, from glass water and golden sands, to wild sweeping coastlines surrounded by rugged cliffs. Below are some of the top beaches to visit in Kerry.

Ballinskelligs Bay

Ballinskelligs Bay is a breathtaking crescent-shaped beach that combines natural beauty with rich history, making it a must-visit location for travellers. Framed by rugged mountains and home to the ruins of Ballinskelligs Castle, the bay provides a picturesque backdrop for relaxation, whether you are exploring the grassy dunes or taking a dip in the crystal-clear water.

Derrynane Beach

A highlight on the Ring of Kerry, Derrynane Beach boasts golden sands surrounded by calm turquoise water, ideal for swimming and water sports. Nearby Derrynane House and Derrynane National Historic Park make for the perfect opportunity to explore Ireland’s history, and the many coastal walking trails offer an idyllic way to take in the beauty of the surrounding area.

Coumeenole Beach

A popular location on the Dingle Peninsula, Coumeenole Beach offers one of Kerry’s most beautiful photo spots, with rugged cliffs and epic waves demonstrating the true untamed beauty of the Irish coastline. Coumeenole Beach also makes for one of the most fantastic locations for sunset watching all year round.

Charming Villages

Ireland is no stranger to charming and quirky villages, often nestled amongst stunning landscapes, these villages offer an insight into the heart of Irish culture and history.

Dingle

Nestled on the West Coast, colourful Dingle offers picturesque streets, artisan shops, and cosy pubs with traditional live music. There are plenty of restaurants to choose from, serving a delicious selection of local seafood and more. A visit to the Dingle Distillery offers insights into the craft of Irish whiskey-making and for nature enthusiasts, a boat trip to The Blasket Islands, or an afternoon with Dingle Sea Safari makes for an unforgettable experience.

Cahersiveen

The Old Barracks Heritage Centre and Cahergill Stone Fort weave charm and cultural heritage into Cahersiveen, known for being the birthplace of Daniel O’Connell. Enjoy folk music in traditional Irish pubs and sample the array of cuisine available to offer in this vibrant town.

Kenmare

With colourful streets, a welcoming atmosphere and stunning natural surroundings, Kenmare offers a blend of local shops, traditional pubs and gourmet resturants. It also serves as the gateway to both the Ring of Kerry and the Beara Peninsula, making it a perfect base for exploring the region.

Portmagee

Most renowned as the gateway to the UNESCO World Heritage Site the Skellig Islands, Portmagee offers travellers the opportunity to explore ancient settlements and awe-inspiring bird colonies with a boat trip from its very own harbour. The village itself boasts charming pubs and restaurants serving local seafood, as well as colourful streets and beautiful views across to the adjacent Valentia Island.

Scenic Strolls

Experiencing some of these walking routes in County Kerry is a must for nature enthusiasts seeking an unforgettable experience as well as a sense of connection with the land.

Killarney National Park - Torc waterfall

Two images of Killarney National Park, Ireland. One shows the reflection of a mountain in glass water of the lake. One image shows colourful Autumn trees on a secluded path in the park.

Home to the well-known Ross Castle, Lakes of Killarney and Muckross House & Gardens, Killarney National Park views are spectacular, to say the least. One of the most popular walking routes is a moderately easy circular trail around 4km long, that leads you past the epic Torc Waterfall. The route is paved and offers a spectacular insight into the beauty of Killarney National Park.

Gap of Dunloe

Beginning at the charming Kate Kearney’s Cottage, The Gap of Dunloe is a winding route that passes directly through the MacGillycuddy’s Reeks mountain range. The road stretches for around 11km from the bottom of the route to the top and leads you past gushing rivers and waterfalls, glass lakes, and towering mountains. Many people opt to walk the route there and back (around 22km), but there is also the option of taking a horse-drawn carriage on either (or both) of the routes.

Lickeen Wood

One of the true hidden gems in Kerry, Lickeen Wood offers a tranquil escape as the trail winds through towering trees and across Blackstones Bridge, providing a perfect opportunity to get lost whilst exploring Kerry’s untouched beauty.

Bray Head

A rocky cliff leads out to sea, with a vibrant sunset and a view of two islands (The Skellig Islands) in the distance

Located on Valentia Island, the views from this paved trail gradually unfold, offering an awe-inspiring sight of the Atlantic Ocean, Skellig Islands and Kerry Cliffs. Bray Tower itself adds a touch of history to the route, as the 19th Century signal tower still stands proudly, a testament to Ireland’s maritime history. The viewpoint is especially magical during the evening, as the sun appears to descend into the Atlantic, casting a warm glow over the surroundings.

Kerry Tourist Attractions

Dingle Peninsula

Visiting the Dingle Peninsula in County Kerry is an absolute must for those seeking an authentic and awe-inspiring Irish experience. With charming villages, dramatic coastline, epic driving route Slea Head, and one of Kerry’s most famous cultural landmarks, Dunquin Pier, the Dingle Peninsula is home to some of the best scenic spots in County Kerry.

Valentia Island

From the breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean to the serene landscapes that invite exploration, Valentia Island is a haven for nature enthusiasts and those seeking tranquility. The island's rich history, including ancient fossils and the transatlantic telegraph station, offers a captivating journey through time.

From the secluded coastal charms of Ballinskelligs Bay to the enchanting vistas of the Skellig Ring, one thing is certain: there's so much more to discover beneath the surface of this breathtaking region.

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