Dalkey Island Dublin
A historic isle near Dublin with ancient ruins, wild goats, and stunning bay views. Your perfect short escape!

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best light for photos & wildlife
Dalkey Island Dublin
Best Time
Best light for photos & wildlife

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic isle near Dublin with ancient ruins, wild goats, and stunning bay views. Your perfect short escape!
"A hidden gem only 20 minutes from Dublin, offering history and nature."
Check the Tides!
Crucial for kayakers! Strong rip currents exist between tides. Consult tide charts before setting off . :kayak:
Boat Trip Options
Several operators run from Coliemore or Bulloch Harbours. Compare prices for your Dalkey Island boat trip . :boat:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Martello Tower
Summit of the island
Explore the historic 1804 tower offering panoramic views of Dublin Bay and the coastline.

Medieval Church Ruins
Eastern side of the island
Wander through the atmospheric remnants of a 12th-century church, a glimpse into the island's past.

Wildlife Spotting
Coastal areas and grassy slopes
Keep an eye out for the island's famous wild goats, seals basking on rocks, and diverse birdlife.
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Dalkey Island Adventure
Getting to Dalkey Island
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check the Tides!
Crucial for kayakers! Strong rip currents exist between tides. Consult tide charts before setting off.
:kayak:Boat Trip Options
Several operators run from Coliemore or Bulloch Harbours. Compare prices for your Dalkey Island boat trip.
:boat:Dalkey Island :)
Info on kayaking to Dalkey Island
Wear Sturdy Shoes
The terrain can be uneven. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring the island.
:athletic_shoe:Pack a Picnic
There are no facilities on the island. Bring your own food and drinks for a scenic island meal.
:sandwich:Help me choose...visit outside dublin
Tips
from all over the internet
Check the Tides!
Crucial for kayakers! Strong rip currents exist between tides. Consult tide charts before setting off.
:kayak:Boat Trip Options
Several operators run from Coliemore or Bulloch Harbours. Compare prices for your Dalkey Island boat trip.
:boat:Wear Sturdy Shoes
The terrain can be uneven. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring the island.
:athletic_shoe:Pack a Picnic
There are no facilities on the island. Bring your own food and drinks for a scenic island meal.
:sandwich:Weather Preparedness
Irish weather is unpredictable. Bring layers and rain gear, even on a sunny day.
:umbrella:What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Dalkey Island as a charming escape with historical intrigue and natural beauty. The boat trip is a highlight, offering stunning coastal views. While facilities are minimal, the chance to see wild goats and explore ancient ruins makes it a worthwhile adventure.
"The island is perfect. I liked the view, you can take a lot of photos if you like to do so. There are goats and bunnies there, but you have to watch out for seagulls if it's the mating season, they can be quite aggressive."
ALEXANDRA ANDRIES
"Great for a picnic on a sunny day. Short ride from the harbour, fairly easy on/off boat if you have some mobility issues. Goats, gulls & glorious views of Dublin."
julie nicholas
"Beautiful place. You can even do a picnic here. As it's Ireland I would suggest to visit the island during summer.
The island consists of old church and few other structures.
It's just an hour journey from Connoly station by DART . Worth a visit."
Sejal Tandel
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common way is to take a boat trip to Dalkey Island from Coliemore Harbour or Bulloch Harbour in Dalkey village. These are easily accessible by DART train from Dublin city center. The journey is short, typically around 10-15 minutes.
Yes, several local boat operators provide ferry services to Dalkey Island from the harbors in Dalkey. It's advisable to check their schedules and book in advance, especially during peak season for your Dalkey Island ferry trip.
Kayaking to Dalkey Island is possible, often from Bullock Harbour. However, be extremely cautious of the tides and currents, which can be dangerous. It's recommended to have experience and check tide times carefully.
For most visitors, a Dalkey Island boat trip from Coliemore Harbour is the most convenient and scenic option. The DART train to Dalkey station is the easiest way to reach the harbors from Dublin.
The boat trip itself is quite short, usually only about 10-15 minutes each way. This makes it an ideal short excursion or day trip from Dublin.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
You don't need tickets to enter Dalkey Island itself, as it's a public space. However, you will need to purchase tickets for the boat trip to get there.
Prices can vary between operators, but expect to pay around €15-€20 for a round-trip boat ticket to Dalkey Island. It's worth comparing options for the best Dalkey Island ferry price.
Dalkey Island is accessible year-round, but boat services operate on a schedule, typically from morning to late afternoon, weather permitting. Always check with the boat operators for their specific hours.
Yes, booking your Dalkey Island tour or boat trip in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak tourist season or on weekends, to secure your spot.
No, there is no admission fee for exploring the Martello Tower or the medieval church ruins on Dalkey Island. They are open for public exploration.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore the historic Martello Tower and medieval church ruins, enjoy a picnic with stunning views, spot wildlife like seals and wild goats, and take in the beautiful coastal scenery.
Yes, Dalkey Island is great for walking. The paths are mostly grassy and can be uneven in places, so sturdy footwear is recommended.
The island is known for its resident wild goats, seals often seen basking on the rocks, and various seabirds like terns. It's a lovely spot for nature lovers.
No, there are no facilities on Dalkey Island. Visitors should bring all their own food, water, and any other necessities they might need.
A leisurely walk around the island is the best way to experience its history and natural beauty. Allow at least 2-3 hours to fully explore.
📸 📸 Photography
The summit near the Martello Tower offers incredible panoramic views of Dublin Bay. The ruins of the medieval church also make for atmospheric shots. Don't forget to capture the wild goats and seals!
Early morning or late afternoon light provides the most dramatic and flattering light for photography. Sunny days offer vibrant colors, while overcast days can create a moody atmosphere for the ruins.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife spotting. A sturdy tripod can help with low-light shots of the ruins.
Generally, there are no specific restrictions on photography for personal use. However, always be respectful of the natural environment and any other visitors.
The iconic Martello Tower, the ancient church ruins, the rugged coastline, and the island's resident wild goats are all highly photogenic subjects.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Lovers
📸 Photographers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Waters: Boat Trips and Kayaking
For the more adventurous, kayaking to Dalkey Island is an option, often launched from Bullock Harbour. However, this requires careful planning and awareness of the sea conditions. Redditors strongly advise checking the tides meticulously, as strong rip currents can form in the sound between the mainland and the island, especially during tidal changes. If you're not an experienced kayaker or are concerned about the currents, staying closer to the shore is a safer approach. Thursday is often mentioned as a good day for kayaking due to potentially lighter winds.
Exploring the Island's History and Nature
Beyond its historical sites, Dalkey Island is a haven for wildlife. The island is famously home to a population of wild goats, which roam freely and are a delight to observe. Along the coastline, you might spot seals basking on the rocks, particularly during low tide. Birdwatchers will also find plenty to admire, with various seabirds, including terns, frequenting the island's shores and skies. The combination of historical exploration and wildlife encounters makes visiting Dalkey Island a unique experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit