Loop Head Lighthouse and Peninsula
Iconic lighthouse on a dramatic peninsula, offering breathtaking ocean views, rich history, and abundant wildlife.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best light for photos & wildlife
Loop Head Lighthouse and Peninsula
Best Time
Best light for photos & wildlife
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic lighthouse on a dramatic peninsula, offering breathtaking ocean views, rich history, and abundant wildlife.
"The walk out around the peninsula is gorgeous. The waves were pounding into the cliffs below, the birds were screaming and singing."
Wear Sensible Footwear
Paths can be marshy; waterproof boots are best for coastal walks. :athletic_shoe:
Check Tour Times
Lighthouse tour hours vary seasonally. Book in advance if possible. :ticket:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Loop Head Lighthouse Tower
Lighthouse
Climb to the top for breathtaking panoramic views of the Atlantic and River Shannon.
Cliffs of Campoy
Coastal path near lighthouse
Dramatic cliffs teeming with seabirds, offering stunning ocean vistas.
Lighthouse Keeper's Cottage
Lighthouse grounds
Experience the history and dedication of lighthouse keepers in this charming accommodation.
Seabird Colony
Cliffs near lighthouse
Witness diverse seabirds like razorbills nesting and soaring during spring and summer.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Dress for the Elements
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Sensible Footwear
Paths can be marshy; waterproof boots are best for coastal walks. :athletic_shoe:
Check Tour Times
Lighthouse tour hours vary seasonally. Book in advance if possible. :ticket:
Pack Binoculars
Ideal for spotting seabirds and potential whale/dolphin sightings. :binoculars:
Embrace the Wind
It's an exposed peninsula! Layers are key, even on sunny days. :cloud:
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Sensible Footwear
Paths can be marshy; waterproof boots are best for coastal walks. :athletic_shoe:
Check Tour Times
Lighthouse tour hours vary seasonally. Book in advance if possible. :ticket:
Pack Binoculars
Ideal for spotting seabirds and potential whale/dolphin sightings. :binoculars:
Embrace the Wind
It's an exposed peninsula! Layers are key, even on sunny days. :cloud:
Drone Photography
Stunning aerial shots of the lighthouse and cliffs are possible. :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Loop Head Lighthouse and Peninsula for its stunning natural beauty, dramatic coastal scenery, and informative lighthouse tours. The opportunity to see abundant seabirds and enjoy panoramic ocean views is a major highlight. While the lighthouse itself is small, its history and the surrounding landscape make for a memorable visit, especially on a clear day.
"We visited back in August on a wild and windy west Clare day. The sun was shining and west Clare is particularly beautiful when the sun shines on it. Such a well maintained and clean place. Entry was very reasonable with little to no wait. We wandered around and learned a little bit of history about the place. How important it has been in the past, how tough and dedicated the lighthouse keepers needed to be. All in all a lovely tribute to an under appreciated vocation. We didn’t go up the lighthouse as it was very windy. The walk out around the peninsula is gorgeous. The waves were pounding into the cliffs below, the birds were screaming and singing, darting in and out of their cliff face nests, diving into the water or simply gliding and hovering in the gusts of wind. I could have watched them for hours on end. What a truly beautiful place.
Ample parking, clean toilet facilities, a very clean premises and a nice cup of coffee to finish it all off. I really enjoyed myself. Definitely somewhere I would recommend."
Ross O Donnell
"Well worth the drive along the stunning coastline to visit the lighthouse.
We had a very informative guided walk to the top of the lighthouse for a fabulous view of the coastline.
Lots of information and exhibits to see. There is a walk around the coastline from the lighthouse
TIP, if you plan to walk around the coastline wear sensible footwear as the ground is a bit marshy in places, not terrible and you can navigate around the worst, but its worth the walk, the views are stunning on a good day.
We visited mid September- opening hours for the tour are reduced late September so check before you visit if you want to enter the exhibition."
Duncan Shirkey
"Stayed in their self catered accommodation with my husband and our family and had the most delightful time. The tour of the lighthouse with the winds howling and the clouds passing over the cliffs was truly magical. The nature and hiking in the area was phenomenal. The staff working the lighthouse were so friendly and took great care of my nan. We have such happy memories watching scary movies in the sitting room sipping Bovril by candlelight and playing board games with a winter Atlantic storm raging outside. Truly a great place for the romantics out there who love cozy, historic and out of the way places."
Annika S-Ó
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
From Dublin, take the M6 motorway towards Galway, then follow signs for Ennis and Kilkee. The drive is approximately 3-4 hours. Google Maps suggests M6 is faster than M7 for this route.
Public transport options are limited. Buses serve nearby towns like Kilkee, but a car is highly recommended for exploring the peninsula and reaching the lighthouse conveniently.
There is ample parking available at the lighthouse itself. It's well-maintained and clean, with additional facilities like toilets.
Absolutely! The drive along the Wild Atlantic Way to Loop Head is incredibly scenic, with stunning coastal views. 
From Doonbeg, Loop Head is a relatively short drive, taking you along the coast. Google Maps will provide the most direct route, typically involving coastal roads.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the grounds and surrounding peninsula is generally free. However, guided tours to climb the lighthouse tower require a ticket. Check the official website for current pricing and availability.
Opening hours can vary seasonally, with reduced hours in late September. It's crucial to check the official Loop Head Lighthouse website or contact them directly before your visit.
While you can explore the grounds and enjoy the peninsula's natural beauty without a tour, climbing the lighthouse tower is only possible with a guided tour.
The exhibition detailing the lighthouse's history is often included with the tour ticket or may have a separate small fee. Confirm details when booking your tour.
Information on discounts for groups, seniors, or children is usually available on the lighthouse's official booking page. It's best to check directly.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can take a guided tour to the top of the lighthouse for incredible views, walk the coastal paths to see dramatic cliffs and seabirds, and learn about the lighthouse's history.
An hour to an hour and a half is ample if you enjoy walking around and viewing the lighthouse. A guided tour will add to this time.
Yes, there are clean toilet facilities, and a nice cup of coffee is available, making it a comfortable visit.
The peninsula is a hub for seabird activity, especially razorbills, during spring and summer. You might also spot dolphins or whales.
The walk is gorgeous but can be marshy in places. Wear sensible footwear, and you can navigate around the worst parts. The views are worth it!
📸 📸 Photography
The lighthouse itself, the dramatic cliffs, the vast ocean views, and the seabirds are prime subjects. Drone photography is also popular here.
Mornings offer beautiful soft light, while clear afternoons provide excellent visibility for capturing the expansive coastline.
Generally, photography is welcomed. However, always be mindful of other visitors and any specific signage regarding drone usage or restricted areas.
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, while a telephoto lens is useful for capturing seabirds. A sturdy tripod can help with long exposures in windy conditions.
Drone footage is popular and captures the dramatic scenery beautifully. Ensure you are aware of and comply with all local drone regulations.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to bring binoculars for wildlife spotting! The walk around the peninsula is manageable, but ensure children wear appropriate footwear as paths can be uneven and marshy. 🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts
+1 The walk around the lighthouse is a must-do, but be prepared for potentially marshy terrain by wearing sturdy, waterproof hiking boots. 📸 Photographers
+1 Capture the dramatic cliffs, the dynamic sea, and the vibrant seabird colonies. Early mornings and late afternoons provide the best light for landscape photography. Drone photography is particularly popular here, offering unique aerial perspectives of the coastline. Remember to check local regulations for drone usage and always be mindful of the environment and other visitors.Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Significance of Loop Head Lighthouse
Visitors can delve into this rich history through informative exhibits and guided tours. The lighthouse itself is a compact structure, but its significance is immense. Learning about the daily lives of the keepers and the evolution of lighthouse technology from manual operation to automation offers a fascinating glimpse into a bygone era. The lighthouse keeper's cottage, now available for stays, provides an authentic experience of this unique vocation.
The lighthouse is not just a historical monument but also an active aid to navigation, continuing its centuries-old mission. Its enduring presence symbolizes resilience and the constant effort to ensure safe passage for those at sea. The blend of history, stunning natural beauty, and the ongoing maritime function makes Loop Head Lighthouse a compelling destination.
Exploring the Natural Wonders of Loop Head Peninsula
+1Beyond the cliffs, the peninsula boasts a unique ecosystem. The waters surrounding Loop Head are known for marine life, with opportunities to spot bottlenose dolphins, minke whales, and even humpback whales during certain times of the year. Whale Watch Ireland events often take place here, highlighting the area's importance for marine conservation.
Visitors are encouraged to explore the walking trails, keeping an eye out for the local flora and fauna. The exposed nature of the peninsula means the weather can change rapidly, so dressing in layers and wearing sturdy footwear is essential for enjoying the natural wonders comfortably. The raw, untamed beauty of Loop Head Peninsula provides an unforgettable experience for those seeking to connect with nature.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit