Discover the Best Things to Do on Achill Island

Exploring Achill Island: A Guide to the Best Activities, Dining, Beaches, and Accommodation

Welcome to Achill Island, a picturesque gem off the coast of County Mayo in Ireland. With its stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture, Achill offers an array of activities for visitors to enjoy. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a foodie seeking culinary delights, or simply looking for a relaxing getaway, Achill has something for everyone. In this guide, we’ll explore the best things to do, places to eat, beaches to visit, and accommodations to stay on this beautiful island.

Best Things to Do on Achill Island

Keem Bay: Start your journey by visiting Keem Bay, one of Achill’s most stunning beaches. With its crystal-clear waters and golden sands, it’s the perfect spot for swimming, snorkelling, or simply soaking up the sun.

Great Western Greenway: Take a leisurely cycle or stroll along the Great Western Greenway, Ireland’s longest off-road cycling and walking trail. Enjoy breathtaking views of Achill’s rugged coastline and rolling hills along the way.

Black Sod Sea Safari: Embark on an adventure with Blacksod Sea Safari. Journey to the abandoned Inishkea Islands, take a coastal cruise below the majestic Cliffs of Croaghan and whale watch on the water – a truly memorable adventure. Tours depart from Dugort Pier – pre-booking essential. 

Achill Experience Aquarium & Visitor Centre: Delve into Achill’s marine life and heritage at the Achill Experience Aquarium & Visitor Centre. Discover fascinating exhibits showcasing the island’s wildlife, history, and culture.

Kitesurfing & Watersports: Thrill-seekers can indulge in kitesurfing, windsurfing, kayaking, SUP, and other watersports at various locations around the island. With its strong Atlantic winds and pristine waters, Achill is a paradise for watersports enthusiasts. Just hit the beach and you’ll find the many mobile watersports vans that offer excursions and rentals. 

Cycle the island: A wonderful way to see the island is on the saddle! There are a few places to rent bikes on Achill Island, our favourite is Blásta Bikes, who offer e-bikes and mountain bikes. To note, the island is very hilly with lots of cliffs and narrow roads so consider an e-bike if you’re not a seasoned cyclist. 

Banshees of Inisherin Locations Trail: The Martin McDonagh movie ‘The Banshees of Inisherin’ was filmed on location on Achill Island, Co. Mayo, and also on Inishmore, one of the Aran Islands in Co. Galway. Download the filming locations map here for touring Achill Island, or check out achilltourism.com for more great things to do on Achill Island during your trip. 

Best Places to Eat on Achill Island

Local Seasonal Dishes at The Bervie Guesthouse & Restaurant: Treat yourself to a fine dining experience at The Bervie Guesthouse & Restaurant. Sample exquisite dishes prepared by award-winning chefs using the finest seasonal ingredients.

Pub Grub at Ted’s Bar: Enjoy pub grub and warm hospitality at Ted’s Bar. Opt for the Fish & Chips or Irish Lamb and you won’t be disappointed. Simple and delicious food in a friendly atmosphere, with a pint of porter to wash it down – bliss!

Seafood at Ár Bia Mara: Lobster Roll lovers unite! This place serves the best lobster rolls, mussels and seafood chowder. So if you like seafood, this is the place to go.

Pizza at Pure Magic Achill: Feast on gourmet pizzas and homemade treats at Pure Magic Achill, a cosy café overlooking Achill. Don’t miss their signature wood-fired pizzas topped with fresh local produce.

Best Beaches on Achill Island

That’s right! There’s more than one beach to explore on Achill Island.

1. Keem Beach 
2. Keel Beach 
3. Dooega Beach 
4. Dugort Beach 
5. Golden Strand (Dugort)
6. Silver Strand (Dugort)
7. Trá Mhór (Trawmore Strand)
   Please note that the waters on the eastern half of this beach are dangerous for swimming due to treacherous local currents. 

Best Places to Stay

1. Bervie Achill Guesthouse: Experience warm hospitality and homely comforts at Bervie Achill Guesthouse. Located near Keel Beach, this charming guesthouse offers cosy rooms, delicious local dishes in the restaurant, and a hearty breakfast to start your day off right.
2. Pure Magic Achill Lodge: This is where as ‘they’ say the Magic happens. Action packed days, sundowners on the patio on a warm sunny evening, fresh tasty food, comfortable themed rooms, music, laughter, good times and everlasting memories, that is what the Pure Magic lodge is all about.
3. Teach Cruachan B&B: A “home away from home” bed & breakfast located close to Keem Bay. Experience genuine Irish hospitality in a breathtakingly beautiful location.
4. Achill Cliff House Hotel & Restaurant: Achill Cliff House Hotel & Restaurant is located in the heart of Keel, the tourist centre of Achill Island, over looking Trawmore Beach and the Mighty Minaun Cliffs.Always book direct with accommodation and activity providers to get the best deals, rates, and perks.

Plan your unforgettable getaway to Achill Island today and immerse yourself in the beauty and tranquility of this enchanting destination. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or culinary delights, Achill has it all. Start your journey and create memories that will last a lifetime on Ireland’s stunning Achill Island.

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