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The Ring of Kerry is one of those quintessential stops on any Ireland itinerary. Located in County Kerry (shocking, I know), this scenic loop winds past castles, stone forts, jaw-dropping viewpoints, sandy beaches, and most importantly, the best bowl of beef stew you’ll ever eat.

The beef stew isn’t technically part of the Ring of Kerry, but trust me, it’s worth the detour.

Like so many places in Ireland, the Ring of Kerry is a “choose your own adventure.” You can stop at every landmark or just a handful. Drive it yourself at your own pace or hop on a guided tour. You can join the tour buses by driving counterclockwise, or go clockwise and experience the thrill of squeezing past them on narrow Irish roads. No matter what you choose, set aside an entire day for the journey, because the Ring is about the views, the atmosphere, and the unexpected discoveries along the way.

If you want a super detailed map with every possible stop, check out my favorite resource: The Irish Road Trip. But if you want the best highlights and practical tips all in one place, this guide will take you through step by step.

Tour Options

Driving is the most flexible way to experience the Ring of Kerry, but not everyone wants to brave Ireland’s winding country roads. Luckily, there are plenty of guided tours available:

• Rail Tours: that combine scenic train rides with coach transfers.
• Bus Tours: that take the stress out of driving and navigation.

Ready to Explore? Book Here ↓

Step by Step Ring of Kerry Guide

This guide has you starting in Killarney. My recommendation is to download offline maps with Google Maps and enter your points of interest step by step and follow those directions. Alternatively, you can open this map on your phone and navigate to each stop you would like to check out. Follow along below for my favorite stops along the Ring!

Step 1. Ladies Viewpoint and Moll’s Gap ~1 hour

Start your day with two of the most famous viewpoints in County Kerry. Ladies View is named after Queen Victoria’s ladies-in-waiting, who swooned over the sweeping vistas during the royal visit in 1861. From here, you can see the Lakes of Killarney framed by rolling green hills.

Continue on to Moll’s Gap, a mountain pass where the road snakes between dramatic peaks. The views are especially striking on a clear morning when the light spills over the valley. It’s the perfect place to pull over, breathe in that fresh Irish air, and snap a few photos before moving on. If you want to add into your Ring of Kerry itinerary a stop through the Gap of Dunloe, read my post on how best to visit this magnificent area.

Step 2. Kenmare ~10 minutes

This colorful town is a gem. Known for its traditional shopfronts painted in bright colors, Kenmare feels lively but still cozy. Take a quick stroll through the streets and pop into a café for breakfast. I recommend Rookery Lane Food & Lodging for fresh pastries, coffee, and a warm welcome.

If you have time, wander down to the stone circle at the edge of town, one of the largest in southwest Ireland. It dates back to the Bronze Age and adds a touch of mystique to your morning.

Step 3. Dunkerron Castle ~6 minutes

Hidden behind holiday cottages, the ruins of Dunkerron Castle are worth a quick stop. Built in 1596, this was once the stronghold of the O’Sullivan clan. Today, ivy drapes across the stone walls and it feels like a forgotten corner of history. Even though it’s not as well-known as some of the bigger castles on the Ring, it makes for atmospheric photos and a quiet moment away from the main road.

Step 4. Sneem ~25 minutes

Arriving in Sneem feels like stepping into a postcard. The brightly painted houses pop against the green hills, and the town square is perfect for stretching your legs. Grab a coffee, browse the local shops, or simply admire the views. Sneem is small but memorable, the kind of place that leaves you smiling as you head back on the road.

Step 5. Staigue Stone Fort ~25 minutes

One of the highlights of the Ring, Staigue Stone Fort is a masterpiece of Iron Age engineering. Built around 300 AD, the circular stone structure was likely a defensive stronghold for local kings. The walls are up to 18 feet thick and stand without mortar, a testament to ancient craftsmanship.

Climb inside and you’ll feel the weight of history. The fort sits high on a hill with sweeping views, so it is both practical and dramatic. If you want more, Caherdaniel Fort nearby offers a similar experience.

Step 6. First Beach Stop ~20 minutes

By now, you’ll be ready for some sea air. You have two excellent choices:

• Castle Cove Beach with its small bay and calm waters
• Derrynane Beach, a larger expanse of golden sand backed by dunes

Nearby, you can also visit Derrynane House, the historic home of Daniel O’Connell, one of Ireland’s most famous political leaders. The house is now a museum and the grounds are a peaceful place for a walk.

Step 7. Waterville ~15 minutes

This seaside town has a long beach, a relaxed vibe, and an unexpected Hollywood connection. Charlie Chaplin spent many vacations here, and there’s even a statue of him on the promenade. Waterville is also popular with golfers, but even if you are not into the sport, it’s a scenic spot for a stroll and a quick bite.

Step 8. Ballinskellig ~15 minutes

At this point, you have reached the gateway to the Skellig Ring, a smaller but equally scenic loop that branches off the main Ring of Kerry. Stop at Ballinskellig Castle, a crumbling tower right on the water, and Ballinskellig Abbey, perched dramatically on the edge of the ocean. The Abbey ruins are hauntingly beautiful, with waves crashing just below.

Step 9. Skellig Ring Highlights ~20–30 minutes

If you have time, continue onto the Skellig Ring for extra viewpoints. Coomanaspig Pass offers breathtaking panoramas across the ocean, while the Kerry Cliffs give you towering sea cliffs without the crowds of the Cliffs of Moher. The short walk to the viewing platform is well worth the small entrance fee.

For a sweet stop, head to Skelligs Chocolate Factory, where you can sample handmade chocolates while gazing out to sea.

Step 10. Portmagee ~5 minutes

By now you will be hungry, and Portmagee is the perfect lunch stop. Head straight to Moorings Guesthouse & Seafood, famous (according to me) for its hearty beef stew and seafood dishes. The cozy pub atmosphere is everything you imagine an Irish meal should be with the added bonus of a shrine to Star Wars.

Star Wars fans will love Portmagee. Nearby Skellig Michael was a filming location for The Force Awakens and The Last Jedi. If you are a mega fan, you can even take a boat trip to the island, though tours require advance booking.

Ready to Explore? Book Here ↓

Step 11. Viewpoints Part Two ~7 minutes

After lunch, choose between two more spectacular viewpoints.

• Bray Head for a cliff walk with endless ocean views
• Geokaun Mountain and Cliffs, which has panoramic views of Valentia Island and the Atlantic

If you can only pick one, Geokaun’s cliffs are especially impressive.

We had a beautiful trip to Ireland where nearly everyday was filled with sunshine and blue skies. However, our day exploring the Ring of Kerry was by far the worst weather we had. It is a risk on any trip, but especially in Ireland where the rain is frequent and the conditions fickle. Please enjoy our completely fogged in view points and just imagine what you may see on a clear day!

Wrapping Up the Ring

At this point you’re heading into the final stretch. The scenery remains beautiful but the stops begin to resemble those you’ve already seen, so feel free to prioritize.

Cahersiveen ~20 minutes
Pass through the town or detour to Cahergall Stone Fort, another remarkable example of ancient Irish stonework.

Kells Bay House and Garden ~15 minutes
This botanical garden features waterfalls, exotic plants, and playful rope bridges. It’s a wonderful place to stretch your legs and wander among giant ferns.

Rossbeigh Beach ~20 minutes
Another long sandy beach, perfect for one last walk by the water before finishing the loop.

Killorglin ~30 minutes, optional
Your final town on the loop. Stop to see the quirky King Puck Monument, which celebrates Ireland’s oldest festival where a goat is crowned king. For a local shopping fix, head to Kerry Woollen Mills. End your adventure with pizza and craft beer at Killarney Brewing and Distilling.

The Bottom Line

The Ring of Kerry is one of Ireland’s most iconic drives for a reason. Along the way you’ll encounter castles, stone forts, cliffs, beaches, colorful towns, and views that change with every bend in the road. Even if the weather turns gray and misty, lean into the drama. Fog and rain only make the landscape more atmospheric.

Set aside a full day, pack snacks, and give yourself the gift of slow travel. Whether you join a tour or drive it yourself, the Ring of Kerry will leave you with stories, photos, and memories that stay with you long after you’ve left Ireland.

For more Ireland travel tips, check out my shop for detailed itineraries for Irish destinations. Or continue to explore other Ireland posts below!

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The post Ultimate Ring of Kerry Itinerary: Best Stops, Views, and Tips appeared first on Update Later Travel.

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Ireland is packed with beautiful landscapes: rolling green hills dotted with sheep, dramatic cliffs and some of the most underrated beaches in Europe. Seriously, I kept calling it the “Hawaii of Europe” because of its plentiful white sand beaches. (Don’t miss my Ireland beach recommendations here!). But one of the most unforgettable spots I visited wasn’t a beach at all, but it was the Gap of Dunloe. 

This glacier-carved mountain pass stretches 11 km between McGillycuddy’s Reeks (mountains) and Purple Mountain (also a mountain) and was formed during the last ice age. Even with the paved road running through it, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped straight into Middle Earth. With its mountain lakes, sweeping views and charming “wishing bridge”, the Gap is an absolute must on any Ring of Kerry or Killarney itinerary. 

I first became obsessed with the idea of discovering the Gap of Dunloe while planning my Ring of Kerry trip and quickly realized there are countless ways to experience it. Below, I’ll walk you through the options and share my favorite stealthy (and safe) way to enjoy the Gap without the crowds. 

Here is an overview of how you can discover the Gap of Dunloe in all its beauty: 

1. Bike or Bike + Boat 
2. Walk or Walk + Boat 
3. Jaunty + Boat
4. Drive 😈

The Details

• Start: Kate Kearney’s Cottage (about 15 minutes driving from Killarney)

• End: Lord Brandon’s Lodge (11km/ 7 miles from the start)

• Parking: available at Kate Kearney’s, but fills up in peak season. 

Gap of Dunloe Lore

Fun fact: Kate Kearney’s cottage is named after a famously beautiful woman known for distilling Poitin (a traditional Irish spirit) here. Now, it’s a cozy stop for snacks and coffee and the official welcome sign for the Gap of Dunloe. On the other end, Lord Brandon’s Lodge comes with its own drama: legend says Lord Brandon locked his wife in the stone tower when she was caught having an affair with Lord Melbourne (who later became Britain’s Prime Minister!). The scandal !

How to experience the Gap of Dunloe

1. Bike or Boat

Cost: €45 E-Bike Rental + Optional €35 Boat Tour and Transfer

Route A: Bike

I started with the most physically demanding of the options. From the town of Killarney you can rent a bike (Killarney Rent-a-Bike or Killarney Bike Rental) and bike around 56 km (35 miles) from the town through the Gap, Black Valley, Moll’s Gap and ending at the Ladies Viewpoint before taking the main road (N71) back to Killarney. This is both a long adventure and has a steep ascent (especially near the end), so be warned or rent an E-bike to make that hill a bit more manageable! You will have total freedom, epic views and can turn back anytime. 

Route B: Bike + Boat

Alternatively, if you want to bike from Killarney through the Gap of Dunloe, I recommend stopping at Lord Brandon’s Lodge and taking the scenic boat tour through the lakes of Killarney with your bike in tow. The boat tour will start at the Lodge and end at Ross Castle, which is just a short 5 minute bike ride back to the center of Killarney. You can opt for the reverse route, starting at Ross Castle and taking the boat to Lord Brandon’s Lodge, then biking the gap from the “end” to Kate Kearney’s Cottage before heading back into Killarney. Both are great options ! 

Ready to Explore? Book Here ↓

2. Walking

Walking lets you soak in every detail, at your own pace.You will have to arrive by car or Uber to start your trek at Kate Kearney’s Cottage. 

• If you want to keep it quick, walk about 30 total minutes to the Wishing Bridge and back.
• Walk the full 11 km path, which will take a few hours. You can opt for a jaunty back, boat tour or walk back. 

3. Jaunty

What the heck is a jaunty? This traditional horse-drawn carriage is super popular in the Gap of Dunloe. While I’m not usually a fan of any horse-drawn rides, in my experience the drivers here are generally respectful of the animals. Expect to pay around €35 per person from start to finish. You can return by jaunty (same price), walking or boat tour. 

4. Professional Guide

If you want to take the headache out of planning your pathway but still want to experience the majesty as you travel between two misty mountains, check out one of these two tours that will get you from point A to point B with ease. 

1. Gap of Dunloe Tour
2. Gap of Dunloe: Walk + Boat

5. Drive (Yes, Really) 

Everything you will read everywhere, will tell you not to drive. And to be honest, you shouldn’t. The Gap of Dunloe is a narrow “2 lane road” winding between mountains, with sheep crossings and bridges (a lot even for the stone lined, thin roads of Ireland). As if that wasn’t a deterrent enough, you have to cope with bikers, walkers and jaunty’s throughout the drive. 

But here’s the secret. You absolutely can drive it, if you go early. I mean before sunrise early. I did it myself and only passed one other car. No stress, no traffic, just stunning views all to myself and during the peak travel months, no less.

The reason this works is you are arriving before the crowds (obviously), but also before the jaunty’s start showing up (which is 8-9am). If you are feeling brave and want to check it out via car, read how below.

The Plan

1. Leave your accommodations around 0600. It will take about 15 minutes to arrive at Kate Kearney’s Cottage, if you are staying in the town of Killarney. It shouldn’t be severely dark outside, but you should be traveling as the sun is coming up, so adjust your departure time with the season.
2. From here, enter the Gap. Safely stop at pull-offs for photo ops (and sheep crossings). 
3. Without stops, it will take about 45 minutes to reach Lord Brandon’s Lodge.
4. You are going to continue from the Lodge to Moll’s Gap, admiring the views all along your route. This will take about another 35 minutes. 

From here you can follow the N71 and head back to Killarney. If you want to make a morning of it and enjoy some well earned coffee continue on this path:

5. From Moll’s Gap you are going to drive an additional 10 minutes to the adorable town of Kenmare. After your early morning, and about 2 hours on the road you have earned yourself a giant coffee and lovely breakfast. Stop by the tasty Rookery Lane Food & Lodging and make sure to stretch your legs with a stroll around town to admire the colorful buildings and general peace and quiet you get in the mornings.
6. Return to Killarney by making a stop at the Ladies Viewpoint, which overlooks everywhere you have been, to round out your Gap of Dunloe experience.

The Gap of Dunloe is one of the most magical places in Ireland. The serene drive along the windy road, with spray painted sheep around every corner, stone bridges and rolling hills. The best part is you can experience however you like. Bike and boat, walk, hop in a jaunty or sneak in an early morning drive. Mix and match to fit your group and your energy levels. 

However you choose, don’t miss this gem on your Ring of Kerry trip. And as always, if you have questions, reach out, I love helping fellow travelers make the most of their adventures.

Pin this post for your next trip! ↓

The post Discover the Gap of Dunloe: Best Routes, Tips, and My Favorite Secret Way appeared first on Update Later Travel.

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Killarney in County Kerry is a must-stop on any first trip to Ireland. It offers a little bit of everything: historic castles, scenic road trips, beautiful hikes, and of course, cozy pubs filled with Irish charm. Whether it’s your first or fifth visit, Killarney deserves a spot on your Ireland itinerary.

The town itself is small and walkable, with pastel shopfronts, lively restaurants, and a welcoming atmosphere. But it’s the surrounding landscapes that make Killarney unforgettable. Think lush forests, sparkling lakes, and mountains that seem to rise straight out of fairy tales. Add in a mix of history, folklore, and traditional Irish culture, and you’ll quickly see why this area has been attracting travelers for centuries.

Best Time to Visit Killarney

Ireland is known for its unpredictable weather, so timing your visit can make a difference.

Summer (June–August)
This is the warmest season with the best chance of sunshine. Temperatures hover in the high 60s to low 70s, which feels surprisingly balmy for Ireland. Expect longer daylight hours and lively streets, but also larger crowds, especially around Killarney National Park.

Spring (April–May) and Fall (September–October)
These are my personal favorite times to visit. The crowds thin out, prices are a little lower, and the landscapes are stunning. In spring, flowers bloom across the park, while autumn brings fiery colors to the forests. Pack a raincoat and lean into the moody Irish vibes.

Winter (November–March)
If you don’t mind shorter days and plenty of rain, winter can be a peaceful time. You’ll have attractions practically to yourself, and pub evenings feel extra cozy with a fire roaring in the corner. Just be aware that some seasonal tours or attractions may be closed.

Ready to Explore? Book Here ↓

Getting to Killarney

Killarney is well connected but feels like a world away once you arrive. Renting a car is the best way to explore Ireland’s hidden corners, and Killarney is no exception. Public transportation works for reaching the town itself, but it won’t get you to every waterfall, viewpoint, or hidden village worth visiting.

From Dublin

• Train: About 3 hr 15 min, tickets around €30. Comfortable and scenic.
  

• Driving: 3.5 hours, with the flexibility to stop along the way. For example you could drive to the town of Cork for the night or even a couple of days, have a couple of excellent meals and kiss the Blarney Stone before heading to Killarney.
  

From Kerry Airport

• Driving: Only 15 minutes to Killarney town.
  
• Bus: Around 25 minutes.
  

If you’re nervous about driving on Ireland’s narrow country roads, don’t worry, you get used to it quickly. I recommend having an excellent co-pilot and you’ll be just fine! I have a full guide to renting a car abroad if you want more details.

Top Things to Do in Killarney

I could go on for ages about all the amazing things to do in Killarney, but here are the highlights you shouldn’t miss.

Killarney National Park

Ireland’s first national park, founded in 1932, is the heart of the region. Covering more than 25,000 acres, the park is packed with scenic trails, lakes, castles, and cultural sites. Don’t expect rugged backcountry hiking. Instead, think leisurely walks through old forests, boat rides across tranquil lakes, and pathways that open up to views straight out of a storybook.

If you want to cover ground without much effort, consider hiring a jaunting car (a traditional horse-drawn carriage). It’s a bit touristy, but it adds to the charm and offers a chance to hear local stories from the drivers.

Muckross House and Muckross Abbey

Muckross Abbey is as atmospheric as it gets. Founded by Franciscan monks in the 15th century, it sits in partial ruin with a hauntingly beautiful cloister wrapped around an ancient yew tree that grows in the center. The cloister is downright medieval looking and the tree is giving Winterfell Weirwood (IYKYK). The abbey is also the burial place of several famous Irish poets. Even if you’re not a history buff, wandering through the stone corridors feels like stepping back in time.

Nearby is Muckross House, a grand 19th-century Victorian mansion set on sweeping grounds. Queen Victoria herself once stayed here in 1861. You can tour the inside to see period furnishings, or simply enjoy a stroll around the manicured gardens. The grounds are perfect for a picnic, and the on-site café is great for tea and scones.

Torc Waterfall and Torc Mountain

For outdoor lovers, Torc Waterfall is one of the most popular sights in Killarney. Just a short walk from the road, the waterfall cascades through mossy rocks in a magical forest setting.

If you’re up for more of a challenge, hike Torc Mountain. There are several trails to choose from, ranging from short strolls to a more strenuous climb. We started at the waterfall and followed signs for the red trail, a 3.2-mile loop that includes “Cardiac Hill,” a steep section that gets your heart pumping. The views from the top are worth the effort, with panoramas of the lakes of Killarney spread out below.

Even if you’re not a hiker, a gentle walk along the Kerry Way trail in this area offers plenty of beauty with minimal effort.

St. Mary’s Cathedral

If you are like me and you love a church, look no further than the gorgeous cathedral that towers over the town of Killarney. St. Mary’s Cathedral was finished with its construction in 1855 but the famous spire of the church wasn’t completed until 52 years later in 1907. Construction for the church actually began in 1843 but due to the Great Famine, it was on hold. The design for the cathedral came from famous English architect August Welby Pugin and the inside was designed by the great Irish duo Ashlin and Coleman, who also designed the Cobh Cathedral.

While the outside stone structure gives an intimidating presence, make sure to pop inside during open hours to see its jaw-dropping Gothic stone arches, impressive organ and stained glass windows.

Drive the Ring of Kerry

The Ring of Kerry is one of Ireland’s most famous scenic drives, and Killarney is the perfect base for it. The 111-mile loop takes you past dramatic cliffs, colorful towns, ancient stone forts, and sandy beaches. Plan for a full day and bring snacks, because you’ll want to stop constantly for photos and epic views.

Whether you self-drive or join a tour, don’t skip it. And if you want a deep dive, I’ve written a full Ring of Kerry guide with all the details on stops, viewpoints, and how to avoid the crowds.

Killarney Brewing Company

In a country known for Guinness, Killarney Brewing Company offers something a little different. This craft brewery just outside of town brews everything from IPAs to lagers, and the pizza here is surprisingly fantastic. It’s a lively spot to spend an evening, especially if you want to mix with locals. The taproom is modern and fun, and the merch makes for excellent souvenirs.

If craft beer isn’t your thing, you’ll still find plenty of traditional pubs in Killarney town, each with live music, hearty food, and that cozy atmosphere Ireland does so well.

The Bottom Line

Killarney is so much more than a quick stop on the Ring of Kerry. It’s a destination in its own right, filled with charm, history, and natural beauty. Whether you’re wandering the halls of Muckross House, hiking up Torc Mountain, or clinking glasses in a lively pub, Killarney delivers the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation.

It’s also a place you can return to again and again. Each season offers a new perspective, from summer’s long days to winter’s cozy, quiet charm.

The post Killarney Travel Guide: Best Things to Do in County Kerry, Ireland appeared first on Update Later Travel.

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I bet you didn’t expect a blog post about beaches in Ireland.

I can here it now: “you mean the country where it’s constantly raining? Who wants to go to the beach there?”

Me! I do. And honestly, some of the most breathtaking beaches I’ve ever seen are in Ireland. Sure, you won’t always find palm trees and tropical cocktails with umbrellas, but you will find wide stretches of soft sand framed by rugged cliffs, rolling hills, and that iconic Irish countryside that makes every view look like it belongs on a postcard.

Visiting an Irish beach isn’t just about swimming or sunbathing. It’s about the atmosphere. The way sea spray hits your face while sheep graze on the hills behind you. The drama of the Atlantic waves crashing into jagged rocks. The golden sand glowing against a backdrop of stormy gray skies. And when the sun does peek out, 65 and sunny feels downright tropical.

So whether you’re packing a picnic, stopping for photos, or just breathing in that wild coastal air, here are the Irish beaches that absolutely deserve a spot on your itinerary.

Rossbeigh Beach: County Kerry

Located along the famous Ring of Kerry, Rossbeigh is a long crescent of sand that feels like it goes on forever. It’s perfect for families because there’s a playground right by the sand and a coffee shop for warm drinks and snacks. Couples will love walking along the rocks at the edge of the beach, watching the Atlantic roll in.

Rossbeigh is also a popular spot for horseback riding and long walks. On a clear day, you’ll have incredible views of Dingle Bay, but even when the mist rolls in, the atmosphere is magical. The light shifts constantly, and you’ll quickly learn why Irish painters and poets have been so obsessed with the sea here.

Pro tip: Bring a picnic and plan to stay a while. It’s also a great stop if you’re road-tripping the Ring of Kerry and need a break from all the castles and stone forts.

Coumeenoole Beach: Dingle Peninsula

If I could only recommend one photogenic beach in Ireland, it might be this one. Coumeenoole Beach is tucked along the famous Slea Head Drive, which many say rivals the Ring of Kerry for scenery. Picture rolling green hills that dive straight into dramatic cliffs, all framing a perfect golden cove.

The beach has been featured in films, most famously Ryan’s Daughter, and you’ll quickly see why. The views are almost too cinematic to believe.

Be warned, though. The waves here are powerful and unpredictable. Locals will tell you it’s not a safe swimming spot. Treat it as a place to explore, take photos, and sit in awe rather than one to wade in for long swims.

If you time your visit in the late afternoon, the golden hour light turns this little cove into pure magic.

Ready to Explore? Book Here ↓

Clogher Strand: Dingle Peninsula

Not far from Coumeenoole, you’ll find Clogher Strand, another gem on the Slea Head Loop. This beach is smaller but surrounded by steep green hills that make it feel intimate and protected. On a clear day, you’ll have sweeping views out to the Blasket Islands, once home to a thriving fishing community and now an uninhabited nature reserve.

The water here is a striking turquoise, especially when the sun hits it, and the sand is soft enough for a barefoot walk. Add in cliffside trails nearby, and it’s easy to spend a couple of hours wandering, watching the seabirds, and feeling like you’ve stumbled upon your own private corner of Ireland.

Glassilaun Beach: County Galway

Way up in Connemara, surrounded by mountains and winding one-lane roads, lies Glassilaun Beach. It’s a bit of a trek to reach, but once you arrive you’ll understand why locals call it “the Waikiki of Ireland.”

This beach stuns with its wide stretch of white sand and brilliantly blue water. On a sunny day, you could almost fool yourself into thinking you were somewhere tropical, until you turn around and see the rugged Connemara mountains rising in the distance.

Parking here is limited, so be prepared to squeeze into a spot along the roadside. But the slight hassle is worth it. Glassilaun feels wild and untouched, and it’s one of those places where you’ll want to just sit and take it all in.

Murder Hole Beach: County Donegal

Yes, you read that right. Murder Hole Beach. Don’t worry, no grisly history to be found here. Just one of the most stunning stretches of sand in Ireland, hidden behind a massive dune and reached only by walking across fields (and often dodging curious cows).

The beach itself is pure drama: golden sand, bright blue water, and massive rock formations that create hidden coves and tide pools. On windy days, the waves pound the shore with incredible force, giving you that wild Atlantic experience.

Because it requires a bit of effort to reach, the beach feels secretive and special. After your visit, reward yourself with a pint at the nearby Singing Pub, a local favorite with traditional music and plenty of character.

This was hands-down one of the most beautiful places I visited in Ireland. I would go back in a heartbeat.

Ballymastocker (Portsalon) Beach: County Donegal

Not far from Murder Hole is another jaw-dropping beach: Ballymastocker Beach, also known as Portsalon Beach. To get the full effect, stop at the Ballymastocker Viewpoint before descending to the sand. From above, the beach stretches for miles in a perfect arc, framed by green hills on either side.

This beach is long enough that even on a sunny weekend, you can always find space to yourself. It’s ideal for a swim if the weather cooperates, or simply for walking along the surf.

County Donegal often flies under the radar compared to more famous destinations like Kerry or Galway, but it deserves just as much love. Fun fact: Taylor Swift once posted a photo from this very beach. If it’s good enough for Taylor, it’s good enough for me.

The Bottom Line

Ireland may not be the first place you think of for a beach holiday, but once you see these stretches of sand framed by cliffs and countryside, you’ll change your mind. Whether it’s the dramatic coves of the Dingle Peninsula, the tropical-feeling sands of Connemara, or the wild Atlantic drama of Donegal, Irish beaches are full of surprises.

The best part is that they’re rarely crowded, even in summer. You’ll often share the view with just a handful of people, a few seabirds, and maybe some sheep grazing in the distance.

So pack a picnic, throw on a sweater, and don’t forget your camera. Ireland’s beaches may not always be tropical, but they’re unforgettable.

And when you go, let me know which one stole your heart. For me, it’s impossible to choose just one.

The post The Most Beautiful Beaches in Ireland You Need to Visit appeared first on Update Later Travel.