30 Best Things to Do in Kerry, Ireland: An Expert Guide

If you’re planning a dream trip to Ireland, then you NEED to visit County Kerry. Located in Southwest Ireland, this magical destination is famous for its breathtaking landscapes, charming towns, and traditional pubs. This makes it the perfect place to visit for the ultimate Irish experience!

Whether you’re looking to explore Kerry’s dramatic coastline, head out on a road trip, or explore historic castles, this county has so much to offer. Thanks to its location near the counties of Clare, Cork, and Limerick, you’ll find plenty of day trip opportunities too, making Kerry an ideal weekend break in Ireland.

This epic Kerry guide is going to take you through everything you need to know for your visit. That includes what to do, the best time to visit, where to stay, and some of the best tours in the area. I’ve also included some top tips along the way to ensure you make the most of your time in this beautiful part of Ireland.

1. Explore Killarney National Park

Visiting Killarney National Park is one of the best things to do in Kerry! It’s within walking distance from the town of Killarney and is home to a variety of heritage sites, hiking trails, and stunning landscapes.

However, one of the highlights of this national park has to be the herd of red deer that are found here. They’re the last indigenous red deer herd in Ireland, and they’ve been living in this area since Neolithic times. So, keep your eyes peeled as you explore!

Stretching for over 10,000 hectares, there’s a lot to see in Killarney National Park as you can imagine. Within its borders lies the Muckross Estate, the Lakes of Killarney, Bourn Vincent Memorial Park, and the town of Kenmare. A popular way to explore this park is by heading out on a horse-riding tour.

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2. Visit the Skellig Islands

No visit to County Kerry is complete without heading to the Skellig Islands. They’re located off the coast and can be seen if you’re driving the famous Wild Atlantic Way. However, the best way to experience the Skellig Islands is by catching a boat to them.

There are two Skellig Islands; Little Skellig and Great Skellig. The latter is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is the one that you can explore on foot. This impressive island is home to a 6th-century monastery, which is where the monks of St Fionan used to live before they moved to the mainland.

Not only is the monastery a wonder to behold, but Great Skellig is also known for its wide variety of birdlife. Time your visit right, and you’ll get to admire hundreds of puffins! Honestly, this place is a must for any Ireland bucket list!

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3. Admire the views from Dun Chaoin Pier

Dun Chaoin Pier is another fantastic place that you’ll want to visit while in Kerry. Also known as Dunquin Pier, this awesome destination is situated along the charming Dingle Peninsula.

Its beauty is unparalleled as you’ll get breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean as you wander down to the pier. Honestly, this is a place that you’ll want to take your time at, especially if you decide to visit at sunset.

If it’s a clear day, you’ll be able to spot the Blasket Islands from Dun Chaoin Pier. In fact, there’s a ferry that runs from the pier to the islands if you’re looking to combine a visit to both sites. The ferry service is seasonal and weather permitting, so you’ll need to check before your visit.

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4. Head to Muckross House

Muckross House is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Kerry and it’s not hard to see why! Located along the scenic Muckross Lake, this building is one of Ireland’s most spectacular stately homes. In fact, it was once visited by Queen Victoria so you’ll be following in the steps of royalty!

Muckross House dates back to the 19th century and features elegant rooms, sprawling gardens, and traditional farms. You’ll also find a variety of craftworkers here, and they specialize in pottery, weaving, and bookbinding.

So you’re not rushing your visit, try to allow at least two hours so you have time to explore the grounds and head on a guided tour. This way, you’ll really get to appreciate the place’s history. This self-guided bicycle tour will allow you to explore Killarney National Park

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5. Stargaze within Kerry International Dark-Sky Reserve

Now this is one of the best things to do in Kerry! This incredible county is home to Ireland’s first-ever Dark Sky Reserve. In fact, it’s one of the only Gold Tier Dark Sky Reserves in the world (and the only one in the Northern Hemisphere) so it’s truly something special.

There are two main sections of the Kerry International Dark-Sky Reserve; the Core Zone and the Buffer Zone. No matter which area you visit, if it’s a clear night you’ll be treated to spectacular stargazing opportunities. If you’re lucky, you might even get to spot the Milky Way!

Even better, the reserve is free to enter and there are no constraints when it comes to public access. That means you’re free to stargaze whenever you fancy.

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6. Visit Ross Castle

Ross Castle is another popular location in County Kerry. It dates back to around the 15th century and you’ll find it along an inlet of Lough Leane.

This place even has a creepy tale to tell. It’s thought that O’Donoghue Mór built Ross Castle and on the 1st of May (every seven years), he rises along with his white horse! Don’t fret if you catch a glimpse of him though, as it’s said to bring people good fortune for the rest of their lives.

For the best experience, check out this 1-Hour Jaunting Car Tour. You’ll head through the beautiful Killarney National Park, and your guide will teach you all about the area’s history including Ross Castle. Along the way, you’ll head past some other popular locations too.

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7. The Ring of Kerry

The Ring of Kerry is one of Ireland’s most famous road trips! The full route is around 111 miles (179 km) long in total and it makes up part of the larger Wild Atlantic Way. So if you’re limited on time, you can cross off two road trips in one!

The Ring of Kerry will take you around the beautiful Iveragh Peninsula, and you’ll get to visit a variety of wonderful places along the way. Popular attractions include Torc Waterfall, the Gap of Dunloe, and Moll’s Gap.

The best way to experience this area is to hire a car. However, if you can’t do that, then check out this Ring of Kerry tour instead. It lasts for around 6.5 hours and will take you to some incredible spots including Kenmare Bay and Killarney National Park.

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8. The Dingle Peninsula

The Dingle Peninsula is another fantastic road trip option! It’s one of the most scenic areas in the country and is where you’ll also find the Slea Head Drive (which I’ll discuss in a minute).

You’ll find endless places to visit along the Dingle Peninsula Drive. This includes Clogher Head, Dingle Town, and Dun Chaoin Pier among others. Whether you’re looking to admire epic views or relax on the beach, this part of Ireland has something for everyone.

To make the most of your visit, try to allow at least a full day when it comes to exploring this area. Just be aware that the roads along the Dingle Peninsula are narrow and winding, so you’ll need to take your time. Many of them are only single-lane roads too.

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9. The Skellig Ring Route

If you’re looking for things to do in Kerry then don’t miss out on the Skellig Ring Route. This 11-mile (18 km) route will allow you to appreciate the very best of Ireland’s wild and rugged coastline. Just be mindful that the road is very narrow in some places.

As the name suggests, the Skellig Islands are a highlight. However, there are plenty of other awesome spots to visit including the Kerry Cliffs, Skelligs Chocolate Factory, Portmagee Village, and Valentia Island.

Unlike many of the country’s other road trip routes, the Skellig Ring is far less touristy so you’ll encounter fewer crowds. You can either choose Waterville or Cahersiveen as your starting point, depending on which way you’d like to do the route.

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10. The Slea Head Drive

Next up is Slea Head Drive, which is located along the Dingle Peninsula. It’s a 24-mile (38 km) route that starts in the town of Dingle and will take you out to Slea Head (as the name suggests).

I’d recommend allowing at least 3 hours to drive this route so you can stop off at the popular locations. ring of me of these include Dunmore Head Viewpoint, Coumeenoole Beach, Dun Chaoin Pier, and Clogher Strand. There are plenty of other spots to visit too if you have the time!

Lastly, you may want to drive this route clockwise as you won’t meet large vehicles head-on. Like many of the other roads in Ireland, it’s narrow here so just take your time and look out for passing places.

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11. The Ring of Beara

Kerry is full of wild and rugged destinations but there’s something special about the Ring of Beara. It’s one of Ireland’s lesser-known road trip routes, which means you’ll get to appreciate the area’s beauty without the crowds.

The Ring of Beara is around 92 miles (148 km) in length and it’s best to drive it clockwise. This way, you’ll be treated to the best coastal views! Allow at least 3-4 hours if you’re planning to drive the whole route (which you should) as this will give you enough time to make stops.

Some of the highlights along this route include Glengarriff Woods Nature Reserve, Garinish Island, Healy Pass, and Lamb’s Head. From the latter, you can take a cable car trip to Dursey Island.

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12. The Ballaghisheen Pass

There are plenty of awesome things to do in Kerry, but if you have the chance, make sure you drive the Ballaghisheen Pass. It’s another stunning route, and it’s much quieter than many of the other roads in County Kerry.

Allow around 2 hours to drive along the pass as the views are simply breathtaking. Make sure you stop at the observation point along the way and take some photographs too! For the best experience, tie in this road trip with the Ballaghbeama Gap as it’s just a 10-minute drive away.

The Ballaghisheen Pass is located around 14 miles (23 km) from Waterville, and you can access the path from either end. Just be aware that you’ll need to concentrate on the road, as a lot of it is only a single lane.

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13. Visit the Kerry Cliffs

The Kerry Cliffs are another famous Irish landmark that you don’t want to miss out on! You’ll find these cliffs along the iconic Wild Atlantic Way, and they will take your breath away!

At an impressive 1,000 feet (300 meters) high, the vistas are unparalleled. If it’s a clear day, you’ll be treated to epic views of the Skellig Islands so have your camera ready. Sometimes, you’ll be able to appreciate views up to 30 miles out!

While at Kerry Cliffs, you can grab something to eat from the cafe or walk along the coastal trail, which offers awesome birdwatching opportunities. There’s also a campground here if you’re looking to stay overnight, which I’d highly recommend. Honestly, there’s no better place to wake up in the morning.

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14. Admire Torc Waterfall

Heading to Torc Waterfall is certainly one of the best things to do in Kerry! Boasting a height of 70-80 feet (21-24 meters) and a stunning backdrop, you don’t want to miss out on this place.

To reach the waterfall, it’s just a short walk from the car park. The trail doesn’t require much exertion and it won’t be long before you’re admiring the powerful cascading waters. If you can time your visit after heavy rainfall, then Torc Waterfall will be even more impressive!

If you don’t have your own transport, then check out this full-day Ring of Kerry tour. Not only does it stop at Torc Waterfall, but you’ll get to visit a variety of other destinations too including Killarney National Park, Moll’s Gap, and Sneem.

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15. Take a cruise of the Lakes of Killarney

You’ll find a variety of epic destinations to visit in County Kerry but the Lakes of Killarney are certainly up there with the best! There are three main lakes here; Lough Leane, Muckross Lake, and the Upper Lake, and they’re all found within Killarney National Park.

The scenery of this place is unreal, with a breathtaking backdrop of mountains and lush rolling hills. Many people choose to explore the area by kayak, but you can also go on a boat cruise.

This Lakes of Killarney boat cruise will take you along Lough Leane (Lough Léin), and you’ll get to see Innisfallen Monastery, Ross Island, and Carrauntoohil Mountain. Not only that, but your guide will teach you about the lake and its surrounding area.

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16. Admire the Ladies’ View

There’s no shortage of things to do in Kerry but don’t miss out on Ladies’ View. It’s a fantastic viewpoint that’s found along the Ring of Kerry and it’s just a 20-minute drive from the town of Killarney.

Here, you can wander through the craft shop and enjoy a slice of cake from the on-site cafe. The cafe features huge windows so you’ll have panoramic views of the surrounding area, including the lakes. This is another spot where you won’t want to forget your camera!

As with any trip, I always recommend that having your own car offers the most flexibility. However, this Ring of Kerry full-day tour is another option for those without transport. As well as Ladies’ View, you’ll get to visit Dingle Bay, Killarney National Park, Moll’s Gap, and Sneem.

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17. Discover the Gap of Dunloe

Visiting the Gap of Dunloe was one of my favorite things to do in Kerry! This jaw-dropping mountain pass dates back around 25,000 years. You’ll find it between Purple Mountain and the MacGillycuddy Reeks, so as you can imagine, the scenery here is spectacular.

One of the best things about the Gap of Dunloe is just how many ways there are to explore. Hiking is one of the most popular options, or you can cycle. For those after something more traditional, you can head out on a pony and trap tour.

This fantastic 5-hour tour will allow you to explore the Gap of Dunloe on a pony and trap. It also includes a Lakes of Killarney cruise, so offers great value for money.

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18. Explore the beaches of Kerry

As Kerry is home to such dramatic coastlines, it’s no surprise to learn that you’ll find plenty of beautiful beaches here. In fact, there are 12 Blue Flag Beaches in this region, among others so you’ll have plenty of options.

Coumeenoole Beach is a fan favorite as many people tie it in with their Slead Head drive, out on the Dingle Peninsula. Another popular option is Derrynane Beach, which is one of Kerry’s blue flag beaches. Boasting white sands and turquoise waters, you don’t want to miss out on this place.

Other fantastic beaches in Kerry include Rossbeigh Strand, Dooks Beach, Ballybunion Beach, and Ballinskelligs Beach. Honestly, there are so many to choose from, so just pick the ones that stand out to you the most!

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19. Climb up Carrauntoohil Mountain

Now, this is an activity for the adrenaline seekers out there! Carrauntoohil Mountain is the highest peak in Ireland and it stands at a height of 3,405 feet (1,038). You can climb right up to the top and admire the breathtaking views but be prepared for a challenge.

There are a few different routes to summit but they’re all classed as strenuous hikes. In all honesty, this is one of the most difficult trails in Ireland, so you won’t want to attempt it without previous hiking experience.

If you’re not feeling very confident, then check out this guided hiking tour. The tour lasts for around 6-7 hours and you’ll have a guide who will take you up to Carrauntoohil Mountain. They’ll also teach you about the local area along the way!

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20. Go hiking on Valentia Island

Valentia Island is one of the most western points in Ireland. It’s located off the Iveragh Peninsula and is one of the country’s most scenic areas (which is saying a lot). Although relatively small, you won’t be short of things to do on Valentia Island.

First of all, you’ll want to visit Valentia Lighthouse and the Transatlantic Cable Station. You’ve also got Valentia Island Heritage Centre and Tourist Information, the Slate Quarry, and Bray Head Tower, among other attractions.

Valentia Island is also home to prehistoric tetrapod footprints. These are thought to date back over 350 million years, which makes them one of the oldest fossilized examples of life on land! As you can see, there’s a lot to do here so don’t rush your time on this island.

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21. Kayak to Innisfallen Island

You’ll find the scenic Innisfallen Island within Lough Leane, in the beautiful Killarney National Park. There are quite a few islands located within this lake, but Innisfallen is the largest. The best way to explore the area is by heading out on a kayaking tour, as you’ll get up close and personal with the landscapes.

One of the highlights of this island is the Innisfallen Monastery which dates back to 640 AD. Monks used to live here, and it’s even rumored that the High King of Ireland studied here.

There’s also this guided boat tour to Innisfallen if you’d prefer not to kayak. You’ll be on the boat for around 10 minutes before having 30-45 minutes to explore Innisfallen Island. There will be a guide who will teach you all about the local area too.

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22. Walk the Kerry Way

The Kerry Way is one of the longest walking routes in Ireland, covering a total distance of 124 miles (200 km). It’s a loop trail that starts and ends in the town of Killarney, and it will take you around the Iveragh Peninsula.

Although the trail weaves through an incredibly mountainous area, the route avoids the higher mountain peaks. This makes it a more accessible walk for many, as you’ll need hiking experience if you want to tackle mountains such as Carrauntoohil.

It takes at least nine days to hike the entire Kerry Way, although you’ll want to allow longer so you can have a few rest days in between. This will give you time to appreciate the area’s beauty, rather than just rushing through.

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23. Learn to surf along the Dingle Peninsula

Although Ireland’s waters aren’t the warmest, you’ll still have plenty of opportunities when it comes to water-based activities. Surfing is a popular activity in the country, with one of the best locations being the Dingle Peninsula.

Some of the best surfing spots here include Coumeenoole, Inch Reef, and Brandon Bay. Throughout the peninsula, you’ll find different stages of break so it’s important to research this beforehand. Some areas are only suitable for advanced surfers so just keep that in mind.

If you’re looking to have a few lessons, then check out Dingle Surf. This surf school is based in Dingle Town and they offer lessons and summer camps. For those who have the experience, you can hire equipment from here at a daily rate.

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24. Hit some of the mountain biking trails

Keen mountain bikers are in luck as there are a variety of awesome biking trails in County Kerry. One of the most popular is the Glenbeigh Loop, which is an 18-mile (30 km) trail that runs along forest tracks and quiet roads.

Other mountain biking trails in Kerry include Priest´s Leap Loop, the Ross Castle Loop, and the Muckross House Loop. The Gap of Dunloe is another fantastic location for mountain biking, as the scenery will blow you away!

Many of the county’s biking trails start and finish in Killarney. This makes the town a perfect base if you’re looking to hit the nearby trails, which leads us nicely onto our next section! Better yet, you can hire bikes in town so you don’t need to bring them with you.

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25. Killarney

Killarney is one of the most charming towns in County Kerry. In fact, it’s the largest town along the iconic Ring of Kerry, so naturally, it’s extremely popular. Located by the beautiful Lough Leane and surrounded by the McGillycuddy Reeks mountain range, the scenery here is spectacular.

You’ll find plenty of awesome things to do in Killarney like going on a pub crawl, exploring Killarney National Park, and taking a jaunting car ride. Thanks to its location, there are plenty of awesome day trip opportunities too including the Cliffs of Moher, Galway City, and Cork.

As Killarney is a popular tourist destination, you’ll find a wide variety of accommodation options for every budget. Not only that, but there are plenty of traditional Irish pubs, fantastic restaurants, and unique craft stores here.

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26. Tralee

Tralee is the capital of County Kerry and is another fantastic place to visit (or stay). Boasting breathtaking views of the Slieve Mish and Stack’s Mountain, the scenery here is to die for!

You’ll find a variety of things to do in Tralee. Some of the most popular attractions include the Kerry County Museum, Siamsa Tíre, (The National Folk Theatre), Tralee Farmer’s Market, and West Kerry Sheepdog Demonstrations. The Dingle Way hiking route also begins and ends here.

Another great reason to visit Tralee – is the food! Aside from the Farmer’s Market (which you need to visit), there are a variety of coffee shops, bars, and restaurants. You also won’t be short of places to stay, as there are options for every budget.

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27. Dingle

As the name suggests, Dingle Town is located along the Dingle Peninsula. Home to colorful houses, a quaint fishing harbor, and an epic food scene, this awesome place has so much to offer. Don’t forget about the variety of art galleries and craft stores that are found here either!

Some of the best things to do in Dingle include taking a boat tour of the Dingle Peninsula, visiting the town’s traditional Irish pubs, and heading on a tour of the Dingle Distillery. Whether you’re looking for an action-packed trip or to simply relax, this place has something for everyone.

One of the best reasons to base yourself in Dingle is the sheer amount of day trip opportunities. From here, you can easily head along the Slea Head Drive, visit Dun Chaoin Pier, or admire the beauty of Coumeenoole Beach.

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28. Kenmare

Kenmare is another charming town and it’s often referred to as the ‘Jewel of the Ring of Kerry’. It’s famous for its lively pub scene, delicious gourmet food, and tranquility, although this place has so much more to offer.

First of all, the scenery in this area is breathtaking as the town is located within the stunning Kenmare Bay. Another bonus is that you’ll find plenty of things to do in this area. Some of the most popular attractions include Kenmare Stone Circle, Reenagross Woodland Park, and Molly Gallivan’s Visitor Centre.

Another highlight of staying in Kenmare is that you may get to spot seals swimming in the bay. Honestly, this town is a must-visit if you’re planning to explore County Kerry.

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29. Cahersiveen

You’ll find plenty of things to do in Kerry, but save some time to explore the historic town of Cahersiveen. It’s situated along the Southern part of the Ring of Kerry route and is steeped in Irish culture. Not only that, but it overlooks the beautiful Valentia Harbour.

As one of Europe’s most Western towns and thanks to its location at the foot of Bentee Mountain, the scenery here is something else. You’ll also be in a great area if you’re planning to explore Valentia Island and the iconic Skellig Islands.

Better yet, there are plenty of awesome attractions in Cahersiveen. This includes Ballycarbery Castle, the Old Barracks, and the Cahergal and Leacanabuiaile Forts. Don’t miss out on the Top Of The Rock Viewing Platform either!

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30. Sneem

Last but certainly not least is the picturesque village of Sneem. It’s situated out on the Iveragh Peninsula and is known for its tranquility, brightly colored houses, and dramatic scenery.

Here, you’ll find several Irish pubs, a variety of unique craft stores, and quirky traditional buildings. Although only relatively small, there are still a few things to do in Sneem like visiting O’Shea’s Pub and walking the Riverside Wildlife Trail.

Like many of the other towns in County Kerry, Sneem makes a great base for exploring the nearby area. Nearby attractions include the Skellig Islands and the Staigue Fort. Not to mention, accommodation in this village tends to be very affordable.

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For the best experience, I’d recommend hiring a car so you can explore all that Kerry has to offer. This allows you to create your own itinerary and you won’t have to stick to public transport timetables. You’ll also be able to stop off at some hidden gems along the way.

However, if you’re short of time or you’d simply prefer to have all the logistics covered, then there are some fantastic guided tours available. You’ll find plenty to choose from, and many will combine a visit to several iconic areas.

Below, I’ve included some of the best Kerry tours so you’ve got an idea of what’s on offer!

If you’re looking for top-notch travel agencies offering tours in Kerry, I highly recommend Get Your Guide and Viator. These two tour companies are featured in this article and have received outstanding ratings on Trustpilot. They provide exceptional customer service and offer a wide range of affordable tours with a hassle-free booking process.

Kerry is an amazing county and you’ll find tons of incredible towns to base yourself in. One of the most popular is Killarney as it has so much to offer. However, you’ve also got Tralee, Dingle, Kenmare, Cahersiveen, and Sneem among others. To give yourself a better idea of where to stay, check out my in-depth guide to the best hotels on the Ring of Kerry!

The great thing about County Kerry is that you’ll find a variety of accommodation options. Whether you’re looking for a charming B&B or a luxurious 5* hotel, this part of Ireland has something for everyone.

Below, I’ve included a link for every budget so you’re sure to find something that suits you!

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There’s no denying that the weather in Ireland can be unpredictable. In all honesty, this is the case whenever you visit, but of course, there are some times of the year that are better than others! The summer months of July to August offer the best weather and the highest temperatures. However, this is the peak tourist season as it coincides with the school summer holidays.

If you’re looking for a cheaper and less crowded experience, then spring is another great time to visit County Kerry. Between March-May, you’ll encounter relatively pleasant weather conditions, and you’ll find that accommodation seems to be cheaper. St. Patrick’s Day also takes place during March, so you’ll be able to get involved in the celebrations.

The great thing about Kerry is that it has something to offer at any time of year. No matter when you visit, just make sure you pack a raincoat as you’re likely to encounter rain at some point.

There are tons of fantastic things to do in Kerry! This county is home to stunning coastal landscapes, charming towns, and tons of outdoor activities, so it has something for everyone. No matter what you’re looking for, you’ll find it here!

To ensure you have the best time, I’d recommend prioritizing the top experiences. That includes driving the Ring of Kerry, exploring Killarney National Park, taking a cruise of the Lakes of Killarney, and hiking on Valentia Island.

If you have a few extra days, then you can always explore some of the nearby counties too. Some of the top destinations that are accessible on a day trip include the Cliffs of Moher, the city of Cork, and Galway.

If you’ve got any further questions about things to do in Kerry then just leave a comment below. For those who’ve already been, what is your favorite thing to do?

If you are planning a trip to Ireland, here are some other guides for you:

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• How to hike the Cliffs of Moher
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