The Wild Atlantic Way is the world’s longest defined coastal touring route, winding through nine counties and three provinces along some of Ireland’s most spectacular scenery. If you’re planning to travel the route with your family, we’ve picked out 20 fun things to do with kids on the Wild Atlantic Way to help you plan your trip.
Don’t miss our best content straight to your inbox! Sign up now and get our FREE newsletters packed with fun ideas and things to do with the kids, family-friendly recipes, expert advice, parenting tips and great competitions.
If you’re looking for fun things to do with kids along sections of the Wild Atlantic Way, hopefully this list will help with your planning.
You may also enjoy 20 More Fun Things to Do with Kids on the Wild Atlantic Way.
20 Fun Things to Do with Kids on the Wild Atlantic Way
#1. Glenveagh National Park
Glenveagh National Park is one of six national parks in Ireland. Situated in the northwest of Co. Donegal, Glenveagh covers 16,000 hectares of scenic beauty in the heart of the Derryveagh Mountains.
Hill walking in Glenveagh can be challenging for beginners, but there are also more relaxed easy walking trails, such as the Garden Trail and the Lakeside Walk.
The award-winning Visitor Centre has a living heather roof that mimics the surrounding landscape, and inside you’ll find displays introducing the park’s natural and built history, along with information on walking trails and events. Guides on duty are usually happy to help with tips for the park and surrounding area.
#2. Donegal Castle
Donegal Castle, in the middle of Donegal Town, was built by the O’Donnell chieftain in the 15th century, beside the River Eske. The castle has been renovated and is open to visitors, with guided tours available.
#3. Slieve League Cliffs
Almost three times higher than the Cliffs of Moher, the Slieve League Cliffs in Co. Donegal reach almost 2,000 feet, making them some of the highest sea cliffs in Europe.
You may also enjoy 101 of the Best Ideas for Your Family Vacation in Ireland.
#4. Enniscrone Beach
Enniscrone Beach is one of the safest and tidiest beaches along the west coast of Ireland, stretching for an amazing 5km. It’s ideal for walking, running, relaxing in the sun and letting the kids loose in the sand.
The waters are safe for swimming and popular for surfing, with lessons available from local surf schools. Other activities include kite surfing, beach fishing and horse riding. With two car parks, families can choose to park at the lower level and walk to the base, or drive the winding road to the upper parking area.
#5. Westport House & Pirate Adventure Park, Mayo
There’s something for everyone in the family at Westport House & Pirate Adventure Park. Set on the 480-acre estate, you can explore the House and Gardens or head for the fun of the Pirate Adventure Park, a Grace O’Malley-themed amusement park with rides and activities for all ages. Arrive early for a full day out, and dress for the Irish weather!
#6. Cycle the Greenway, Mayo
Enjoy the longest off-road walking and cycling route in the country: the Great Western Greenway. It runs along Ireland’s Atlantic coast between Westport town and Achill Island, passing through the picturesque villages of Newport and Mulranny.
#7. Galway Atlantaquaria, Galway
The first time you walk through the entrance to Galway Atlantaquaria, Ireland’s largest aquarium, we guarantee you’ll jump — their opening exhibit is Ireland’s largest “Splash” tank!
You’ll also find the ray pool, ocean tank, a fin whale skeleton, touch pools and plenty of hands-on activities, including feeding the fish and touching starfish and crabs.
#8. Burren Nature Sanctuary
The Burren Nature Sanctuary in Kinvara is an interpretive centre for the natural history of the Burren. There’s an adventure playground with great equipment, including a fantastic sand pit, plus a gentle 1km nature trail where you can feed the sheep and see llamas.
Kids can do a nature trail activity making rubbings of leaves and other natural finds along the way. Indoors, there’s an artisan café and a soft play area with slides, a ball pool and climbing frames. See our Family Trip to the Burren.
#9. Loop Head Lighthouse
Visit the iconic lighthouse at Kilbaha, West Clare. During the summer months, the view from the top of the tower stretches as far as the Blasket Islands in Co. Kerry and the Twelve Bens in Co. Galway.
A guided walk around the Loop Head Peninsula takes in the fabled Diarmuid and Gráinne’s Leap, and you might even spot whales or dolphins out along the Shannon Estuary.
#10. Fanore Beach
Fanore Beach, in the heart of the Burren near Ballyvaughan, is one of the best beaches in Clare. The vast stretch of sand is ideal for races, running, walking and sandcastles. Bring a picnic and a kite!
#11. Cliffs of Moher Cruises
Everyone knows about the Cliffs of Moher, but why not see them from a different angle and book an adventure with Cliffs of Moher Cruises? The kids will love the boat ride, and you’ll come away with a whole new appreciation of these amazing cliffs.
#12. Kilkee Habitat Trail
The Kilkee Habitat Trail is a scenic walk following the beach and cliffs, with information panels illustrating the diverse wildlife habitats of Kilkee.
While you’re there, take a net and try catching fish in the rock pools, or try the local game of Racquets — a form of outdoor squash played against the West End wall on the beach.
#13. Shannon Dolphin Trail, Kilrush
Start at the Shannon Dolphin Information Board in the town’s Market Square and follow the trail markers to the Shannon Dolphin & Wildlife Centre, where you can listen to bottlenose dolphin sounds, see real whale and dolphin skeletons, and enjoy plenty of educational activities for children.
#14. Killarney National Park
A visit to Killarney National Park is a must if you’re in Killarney, with Muckross House and Gardens as the focal point for visitors. Tour the house, explore the gardens, step back in time on Muckross Traditional Farms, visit the petting farm, or picnic and play in the Woodland Play Area. Torc Waterfall is also nearby.
You may also enjoy Visit These Wonderful Waterfalls in Ireland.
#15. Find Some Fairies
There are two magical fairy trails to be found in Kerry — one in the wooded surrounds of Derrynane House, Caherdaniel, and the other in the woods of the Parknasilla Resort. Both are free and open to all visitors.
#16. Inch Beach
Inch Beach in Kerry is a long sand spit beach backed by a dune system reaching into Dingle Bay, popular with surfers, anglers and swimmers. It also has beautiful purple pebbles and a wonderful variety of shells to collect.
#17. Dingle Bay Boat Tours
Dingle is famous for its links to the sea, and a boat tour out on Dingle Bay is a lovely way for kids to spot marine life and enjoy the coastal scenery. Several operators run trips from Dingle Pier, so it’s worth checking locally on the day for current tours, timings and what wildlife has been spotted recently.
You may also enjoy 40 Fun Things to Do on the Ring of Kerry and Beyond.
#18. Dursey Island Cable Car
Originally opened in 1969, the Dursey Island cable car remains the main means of transport across the waters of the Dursey Sound and offers a truly unique experience.
It’s Ireland’s only cable car, and one of the very few in Europe that crosses seawater — a real attraction that draws visitors from far and wide. As long as you and the kids have a good head for heights, it can be a wild ride over the waves!
#19. Titanic Experience, Cobh
The Titanic Experience, Cobh tells the story of a legend and its connection to Cobh, Co. Cork. Set in the original offices of the White Star Line, you can retrace the footsteps of the 123 Queenstown passengers who boarded Titanic from Cobh.
Check in at the White Star Line Ticket Office, experience life on board through audio-visual displays and replica set designs, and discover the facts surrounding the tragic sinking of the Titanic.
#20. Model Railway Village
Visit the Model Railway Village to see a miniature recreation of the old West Cork Railway Line as it was in the 1940s. Depicting busy market days, it’s a joyful discovery for young and old alike. Relax in the unique tea room, set in authentic train carriages with a view of Clonakilty Bay, or take a tour of Clonakilty aboard the Choo Choo road train.
—
Have your say! Have you travelled the Wild Atlantic Way with kids? Where did you enjoy visiting along the way? Tell us in the comments below.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Wild Atlantic Way?
The Wild Atlantic Way is the world’s longest defined coastal touring route, running along Ireland’s west coast through nine counties and three provinces, taking in dramatic cliffs, beaches, islands and villages.
Is the Wild Atlantic Way suitable for a family trip?
Yes. The route has a great mix of family-friendly stops, from beaches and national parks to aquariums, castles and gentle walking trails, so it’s easy to build a trip around your children’s ages and interests.
Do I need to drive the whole Wild Atlantic Way at once?
Not at all. Many families choose a section of the route, such as Donegal, Mayo, Clare, or Kerry and Cork, rather than attempting the full length in one trip.
What should we pack for a family trip along the Wild Atlantic Way?
Irish coastal weather can change quickly, so pack layers, waterproofs and sturdy shoes alongside your usual beach and picnic gear, even in summer.
You Might Also Like
- 20 More Fun Things to Do with Kids on the Wild Atlantic Way
- 101 of the Best Ideas for Your Family Vacation in Ireland
- 40 Fun Things to Do on the Ring of Kerry and Beyond
- Visit These Wonderful Waterfalls in Ireland
Save This for Your Next Family Trip
Planning a longer road trip? Bookmark this list or save it to your phone so you’ve got fun, kid-friendly stops ready to go wherever the Wild Atlantic Way takes you.
Don’t miss our best content straight to your inbox! Sign up now for our free weekly newsletter, packed with family day-out ideas, recipes, parenting tips and great competitions.
