Kerry Cliffs: Everything You Need to Know to Visit

Standing 10000 ft. above the Wild Atlantic Way you’ll find the spectacular Kerry Cliffs. These cliffs are absolutely breathtaking. Transforming the Irish coastline over 400 million years ago, you’ll love the views – sharing them with only a handful of other tourists, too. Honestly, you’ll feel like you have the area all to yourself.

I loved my visit to the seaside coast off the Ring of Kerry, which is why I want to help you make the most out of your visit, too. The helpful guide includes everything you need to know to visit. From parking, admission, getting there, and things to do nearby, the Kerry Cliffs are waiting for you!

Happy travels to Ireland!

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Getting to Kerry Cliffs

By rental car

The Kerry Cliffs are located off the Ring of Kerry‘s main road on the smaller, Skellig Ring. Located about 20 minutes from the main road, the roads become quite narrow and more difficult to navigate. And, depending on if you add additional stops to destinations, like the Skelligs Chocolate Factory, it can take you longer to get to the cliffs. Side roads on the Ring of Kerry can be winding and quite narrow, so be sure to come prepared with primary rental car coverage.

If your taking more time visiting the Ring of Kerry, Portmagee is the closest town with plenty of restaurants and a few Inns, too. Or even on a one day Ring of Kerry itinerary, it’s a great stop for some fantastic seafood and oceanside views. The town is also the start of guided tours to the Skellig Islands, too.

By private tour

Because the roads on the Skellig Ring are so narrow large bus companies can’t easily navigate the winding roads. If you want to visit the Kerry Cliffs on a tour you’ll need to book a small bus tour company that includes the Skellig Ring as a part of their itinerary.

Private tours that include the Cliffs of Kerry are hard to come by. But this one includes the Skellig Ring for an affordable price!

What to expect on your visit

You’ll find that since the Kerry Cliffs are so remote not many tourists choose to venture this far out. What I love about this is that it makes them off the beaten path. No big tour busses or merchandise stands await you. Instead, your find a great view with leisurely tourists having plenty of space to roam freely.

Upon arrival on the small, gravel parking lot you’ll find limited facilities. Yes, there is a bathroom and depending on the season a coffee shop might be open, too. After parking you’ll head to a small, white building and pay an entrance fee. The price of the Kerry Cliffs is €5 per person to visit and they accept cash or card.

There are no drones allowed but the fencing is so close to the cliffs you can take some incredible photos and video without one.

From the parking lot it’s an uphill walk to the cliffs viewing platforms. Along the way you’ll see some adorable alpacas, donkeys and horses. There are also picnic tables located on the path, so you can easily pack your own lunch and enjoy the views, too. Campers are welcome to pay and park overnight as well.

The closest viewing platform is about 0.3 miles from the parking lot. Personally, I found the walk to be rather easy but if you have bad knees it might be a bit challenging.

The cliffs are open from 9:00AM-5:00PM daily, making it an easy activity to add to your Ring of Kerry itinerary. But keep in mind the Cliffs can close unexpectedly due to harsh weather conditions.

Kerry Cliffs vs Cliffs of Moher

Personally, I enjoyed visiting the Kerry Cliffs more than the Cliffs of Moher. Primarily because there were far fewer tourists. But the ability to get closer to the actual cliffs made the views far more interesting than the Cliffs of Moher. Finally, the Kerry Cliffs are cheaper to visit than the Cliffs of Moher.

There are two benefits the Cliffs of Moher have over the Cliffs of Kerry. First, the Cliffs of Moher is a top tourist destination, so they have plenty of amenities. There are restaurants, gift shops, and even a museum inside their facilities. Additionally, you have plenty of tour options from Galway and even Dublin to visit.

Obviously, either location needs to fit within your Ireland itinerary to work. Since the Kerry Cliffs are so remote, I wouldn’t make a special trip to visit unless you are already planning to visit the Ring of Kerry. Likewise, I wouldn’t plan a trip to the Cliffs of Moher unless you are already have Galway in your travel itinerary.

But if you have a choice to build within your Ireland itinerary, I’d always recommend the Kerry Cliffs experience over the Cliffs of Moher.

Things to do near the Kerry Cliffs

Take a boat tour to Skellig Michael

You might recognize the Skellig Islands for their use in the Star Wars films but they are also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Because of this many ecotour operators don’t allow tourists to set foot on the islands. The islands also operated a monastery from the 6th to 12th centuries, and many buildings still remain. If you’re lucky you might also enjoy some puffins along the islands shores, too.

Boat tours typically operate between May and October, weather permitting, as the waters can be rough. And with limited tours you’ll want to book your ticket in advance.

Sample chocolate at Skelligs Chocolate Factory

A must-visit for chocolate lovers and just a short drive from the cliffs, Skelligs Chocolate Factory is producing some unique, Irish flavors on the stunning coastline. The factory offers free tastings but there is a cafe with coffees and pastries for purchase, too. Skelligs Chocolate is open year-round but hours vary by the season.

Enjoy the views at St. Finian’s Bay

This bay includes a beautiful beach and some of the best views of the Skellig Islands, too. If you’re looking for a piece of nature that still feels untouched – be sure to add this to your list. It’s a great stop to take photos, walk along the shore, or simply relax and take in the coastal scenery. And who knows, if you’re lucky you might spot some Irish surfers in the waters!

Explore the ruins at Ballinskelligs Castle and Abbey

Ballinskelligs Castle, built in the 16th century, sits on a quaint beach near the start of the Skellig Ring. Near the castle, you’ll find the ruins of Ballinskelligs Abbey, which dates back to the 12th century and was founded by monks who once lived on Skellig Michael. Both sides are accessible year-round.

Eat some seafood in Portmagee

Portmagee is a charming fishing village famous for its fresh seafood and scenic views. You’ll find some amazing local seafood like mussels, oysters, and fresh fish caught that morning. Plus, the oceanside views are a great way to spend a meal.

If you plan to break up your Ring of Kerry trip, this cute town is a great stop with plenty of cottages and inns to choose from.

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