Dalkey Island, Dublin - a castle overlooking a body of water on a cloudy day
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Dalkey Island Dublin

4.8
·77 reviews·, Ireland

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

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Sunny Summer Mornings

Best light for photos & wildlife

CrowdMedium
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Dalkey Island, Dublin - a castle overlooking a body of water on a cloudy day

Dalkey Island Dublin

Best Time

Sunny Summer Mornings

Best light for photos & wildlife

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

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

4.8
(77 reviews)

"A hidden gem only 20 minutes from Dublin, offering history and nature."

Vertical photo
TIP

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:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Martello Tower

Martello Tower

Summit of the island

Explore the historic 1804 tower offering panoramic views of Dublin Bay and the coastline.

Medieval Church Ruins

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

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

Dalkey Island is a fantastic escape, but check the weather before you go! Sunny days make the trip magical, while rain can make it a bit bleak. Consider the tides if you're kayaking, as currents can be strong.Reddit

Getting to Dalkey Island

The most popular way to reach Dalkey Island is by boat from Coliemore Harbour or Bulloch Harbour. Several local operators offer trips, so compare prices and schedules. It's a short journey, making it an easy day trip from Dublin.TikTok

Best Times

When
Sunny Summer Mornings
Why
Best light for photos & wildlife
Crowd
Medium
When
Late Spring Afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, pleasant weather
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

A hidden gem only 20 minutes from #dublin #travel
@deuzneves
164.2K likes • 2.8M views

Check the Tides!

Crucial for kayakers! Strong rip currents exist between tides. Consult tide charts before setting off.Reddit :kayak:

Boat Trip Options

Several operators run from Coliemore or Bulloch Harbours. Compare prices for your Dalkey Island boat trip.TikTok :boat:

reddit.com

Dalkey Island :)

reddit.com

Info on kayaking to Dalkey Island

Wear Sturdy Shoes

The terrain can be uneven. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring the island.Reddit :athletic_shoe:

Pack a Picnic

There are no facilities on the island. Bring your own food and drinks for a scenic island meal.Reddit :sandwich:

reddit.com

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.Reddit :kayak:

Boat Trip Options

Several operators run from Coliemore or Bulloch Harbours. Compare prices for your Dalkey Island boat trip.TikTok :boat:

Wear Sturdy Shoes

The terrain can be uneven. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring the island.Reddit :athletic_shoe:

Pack a Picnic

There are no facilities on the island. Bring your own food and drinks for a scenic island meal.Reddit :sandwich:

Weather Preparedness

Irish weather is unpredictable. Bring layers and rain gear, even on a sunny day.Reddit :umbrella:

What Travellers Say

4.8
(77 reviews)

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

Scenic boat trip
Wild goats
Historic ruins

What People Dislike

No facilities
Uneven terrain

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.TikTok

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.Reddit

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.TikTok

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.TikTok

🎫 🎫 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.TikTok

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.Reddit

Yes, Dalkey Island is great for walking. The paths are mostly grassy and can be uneven in places, so sturdy footwear is recommended.Reddit

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.Reddit

No, there are no facilities on Dalkey Island. Visitors should bring all their own food, water, and any other necessities they might need.Reddit

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.Instagram

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.Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Dalkey Island is a fantastic, accessible adventure for families. The short boat trip itself is exciting for children, and once on the island, they'll love exploring the old tower and church ruins. The main draw for kids is often the wild goats that roam freely – a guaranteed hit! Remember to pack a picnic, as there are no facilities, and ensure children wear sturdy shoes for exploring the uneven terrain.Reddit The open spaces are perfect for running around, making it a memorable day out.

🚶‍♀️ Hikers and Nature Lovers

For those who enjoy a gentle hike and nature, Dalkey Island offers a rewarding experience. The island provides lovely walking paths with stunning coastal vistas. You can circumnavigate the island, taking in the views of Dublin Bay and the Irish Sea. Keep your eyes peeled for seals and various seabirds, and of course, the resident wild goats.Reddit The historical sites add an extra layer of interest to your exploration. Remember to wear comfortable walking shoes and be prepared for changeable weather.

📸 Photographers

Dalkey Island is a photographer's dream, offering a variety of scenic subjects. The Martello Tower provides a striking architectural element against the backdrop of the sea. The medieval church ruins offer atmospheric shots, especially in diffused light. For wildlife photographers, the wild goats and seals present excellent opportunities. The panoramic views from the higher points of the island are perfect for landscape photography, particularly during the golden hours of sunrise or sunset.Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating the Waters: Boat Trips and Kayaking

Reaching Dalkey Island is an adventure in itself. The most popular method is via a boat trip departing from Coliemore Harbour or Bulloch Harbour in Dalkey village. Several local operators offer regular services, making it a convenient Dalkey Island boat trip.TikTok These trips are relatively short, usually taking around 10-15 minutes, and provide fantastic coastal views on the way. Prices typically range from €15-€20 for a round trip, so comparing operators can be beneficial for finding the best Dalkey Island ferry deal.

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.Reddit 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.Reddit

Exploring the Island's History and Nature

Dalkey Island is steeped in history and offers a rich natural environment. The most prominent historical structure is the 1804 Martello Tower, a coastal fort offering commanding views across Dublin Bay. Visitors can explore its interior and imagine its past defensive role. Nearby, you'll find the atmospheric ruins of a medieval church, believed to date back to the 12th century, providing a tangible link to the island's earlier inhabitants.Reddit

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.Reddit The combination of historical exploration and wildlife encounters makes visiting Dalkey Island a unique experience.

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