In our nearly 15 years living in Ireland, we’ve been pulled to Dingle about six or seven times. Each visit has had a different purpose and feel, but always done at a relaxed pace. It’s also helped us enjoy the unexpected and track down places that have become musts on our list whenever we return to the peninsula. We went for mid-term break this month and it reminded me how much I love this place. I’ll share my fave spots and activities in a moment, but first I’ll tell you that the best way to see Dingle town is by walking. Take a stroll around the charming streets of Dingle town and check out the local shops, pubs, and restaurants.
Side note, all my posts in the month of March are about travel in Ireland. I have a couple friends planning trips and filled with the Saint Patrick’s Day spirit, I thought I’d make it a theme. Fun, right? I’m also planning to devote all my posts in July and August to travel notes, recommendations, and inspiration. Yes, I finally transcribed all my travel journal entries.
When visiting Dingle, Ireland, there are several things you can do to make the most of your trip. My top 10 activities are:
- Take in Dingle Harbour: It rests on the edge of the water with boating excursions available. Dingle Dolphin Boat Tours offers a few options, including a charter. There are also Dingle Sea Safari and Dingle Boat Tours. Try to time any boat outing for a clear enough day to enjoy the view and not have choppy water. Dingle Harbour is a popular spot for boat trips, fishing, and seal watching. You can also enjoy a big picture view from Ease Tower on Carhoo Hill. If you are determined to enjoy the view by boat, but are traveling with kids, this Dingle Dolphin Tour may be the best option.
- Go on a scenic drive: The Slea Head Drive is a popular driving route that takes you around the peninsula, offering stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and the Blasket Islands. You could also brave Conor Pass, which is wider than it used to be apparently. I drove it back in 2009 and it was a harrowing experience in the fog. The pass here runs from Dingle out to Brandon Bay and Castlegregory. Conor Pass is a whopping 410 m above sea level. I drove it twice back in 2009, and that’s enough for a lifetime. We also drove out to Rhahinnane Castle (ruins) which was beautiful and secluded. Bring Euros in change to pay for entry in the honor box as the castle is on private sheep grazing land. The ruins are a stark reminder of the destruction during the Cromwellian conquest.
- Visit the Dingle Oceanworld Aquarium: The aquarium is home to a wide variety of marine life, including sharks, rays, and tropical fish. Photo above. Check feeding times for extra fun. We visited and got to see the otters and penguins fed (separately), which really made me realize what tidy eaters my kids actually are. Look for the underwater view ‘cave’ in the penguin area and snap a family pic on the ‘iceberg’ seating. Butterfly enclosure season is late spring and summer. If you want to see more animals after the aquarium, you may also enjoy visiting a farm, such as Scanlon’s Pet Farm (Baile an Lochaigh, Bally David, Dingle), Dingle Pet Farm (Emlagh, Lispole, V92 H7RF), Dingle Sheepdog Demonstrations (Fahan, Dingle), or Lios Stone Circle & Animal Feeding (Slea Head Dr, Caheratrant). There is also Hold a Baby Lamb (Slea Head Dr, Cantra).
- Learn about Irish culture and history: Dingle is home to several cultural and historical sites, including the Gallarus Oratory and the Beehive Huts, which are worth visiting to learn more about Ireland’s past.
- Enjoy a Nature Hike: Dingle Peninsula has some beautiful hiking trails with breathtaking views of the coast and countryside. Wear waterproof hiking shoes and dress for the weather. A chance to view out from or above Dun Chaoin Pier would also be worthwhile if the weather is clear. Honestly, this deserves its own post, so check back next week for 6 Hikes on the Dingle Peninsula to Explore.
- Visit the Holden Leather Goods shop: Treat yourself to hand-crafted artisan leather goods, from keychains to handbags. All leather goods are made on-sight on the Dingle Peninsula. They design their bags in Dingle and have gifts starting at budget-minded keychains to high end handbags.
- A Pint at Dick Macks and/or Foxy John’s: For an authentic Dingle pub experience, put away your selfie stick and live in the moment with a pint, a dram, or your preferred beverage. Friendly, local, and a huge selection of local, Irish, and international whiskeys and beers. Photo below.
- Something Sweet: Visit Murphy’s Ice Cream for one of their handcrafted flavors! My favorite is Sea Salt, but the seasonal flavors are always winners. Their Raspberry Sorbet is AMAZING. You can get a cone to enjoy right away or a tub to take home. They also sell souvenirs, like their well known Póg mo Cone tee. Want to pick up some treats for a picnic or to have later? Get a Cake or donut at Courtney’s Bakery, nestled within Green Street, Courtney’s Bakery has delicious scones, pastries, queen cakes, breads, and blaas (best in the West). Nice table in the sun when the weather is agreeable just outside for enjoying your fresh-baked treats. I wish this place was in Cork City!
- Tour Dingle Crystal Factory: There are 30-minute tours in which they go through their designs and show a demonstration of the cutting process. There is an easy booking feature to reserve your free tour space. Seeing the planning and skill that goes into each piece is a great experience for anyone used to the fast fashion and instant gratification way of modern life.
If you are staying in an airbnb or self-catering rental in Dingle, I recommend visiting Kennedy & Sons Butchers on Orchard Lane for your meat. The best butcher in County Kerry, Jerry Kennedy knows his beef, lamb, and sausages and provides reasonably priced LOCAL products. Known for the Blasket Island Lamb sold there at fair prices. Best part is that the shop caters to the real consumer by selling eggs, seasoning, and other basics so you don’t have to run all over town just to get the ingredients for a perfect meatloaf or meatballs. With O’Connor’s Vegetables down the lane, you’re all set for cottage pie too! Orchard Lane has its own parking that doesn’t fill up very often. The lane is located off Main Street between Dykegate and Green.
