Things to do in Achill Island
Discover the best attractions and experiences Achill Island has to offer
Historic Monuments
Discover echoes of the island’s past through ruins and ancient sites that frame Achill’s rugged beauty.
Slievemore Deserted Village
Ruined stone cottages from the 19th century perched on the Slievemore plateau, offering a glimpse into island life long ago.
Kildavnet Castle
Ruined 15th-century tower house overlooking Achill Sound with dramatic sea views.
Museums
Learn about Achill’s people, history and craft at small local collections and heritage centres.
Achill Heritage Centre
Exhibitions and displays celebrating Achill’s history, culture and landscapes.
Great Western Greenway Visitor Centre
Information hub dedicated to the Greenway and local cycling routes along Mayo’s coast.
Religious Monuments
Historic churches and sacred sites tucked into Achill’s coastal scenery.
St. Patrick's Church Ruins (Keel area)
Atmospheric church ruins set near the island’s vibrant coastal village of Keel.
Dooagh Church Ruins
Remains of a small church linked to the Dooagh community and past parish life.
National & Theme Parks
Scenic landscapes and long-distance routes that highlight Achill’s wild coastline.
Great Western Greenway
A popular cycling and walking route along an old railway line from Westport to Achill.
Atlantic Drive (Achill Head to Keem Bay)
A classic coastal drive offering dramatic cliff views and ocean panoramas.
Wild Atlantic Way (Achill segment)
The iconic coast-to-coast route that threads along Achill’s rugged shores.
Neighborhoods
Small, characterful villages where you can settle into island life.
Keel
Busy seaside village with shops, pubs and access to beaches and trails.
Dooagh
Smaller village known for its long beach and scenic surroundings.
Achill Sound
East coast hub near the isthmus with views across the water to the mainland.
Free Things to Do
Enjoy Achill without an entry fee with nature, beaches and scenic walks.
Keem Beach
Stunning pink-sand beach with dramatic cliffs and clear blue water.
Slievemore Deserted Village (self-guided walk)
Explore the hillside ruins and take in the landscape without a formal tour.
Great Western Greenway (on-foot segments)
Stretch of the Greenway suitable for a scenic, free walk or jog.
Gastronomy
Relish fresh seafood and hearty island fare crafted with Mayo’s ingredients.
Local seafood dishes in Achill pubs
Seasonal catches prepared in traditional Irish pub style.
Traditional Irish stew
Slow-cooked, comforting stew made with local meat and vegetables.
Achill island lamb dishes
Dishes featuring locally raised lamb and seasonal produce.
Nightlife
Evenings unfold in friendly pubs with warm hospitality and music.
Live traditional music in Keel pubs
Evening sessions featuring local musicians in cozy venues.
Dooagh pub evenings
Casual nights with good conversation, drinks and simple concerts.
Achill Head taverns
Relaxed bars offering nightly hospitality and snacks.
Entertainment
Cultural glimpses and waterfront ambiance add to your island evenings.
Local storytelling evenings
Informal gatherings where locals share folklore and history.
Public performances by local artists
Occasional shows and exhibitions in village venues.
Outdoor screening on summer nights (seasonal)
Community outdoor cinema or projection events in villages.
Sports
Active options on land and sea to suit every pace.
Surfing at Dooega/Dooagh Beach
Coastal waves ideal for beginners and experienced surfers alike.
Cycling on the Great Western Greenway
Scenic rides along a flat, safe old railway track.
Hiking the Slievemore plateau
Rugged walks with sweeping views over Clew Bay and the Atlantic.
Off the Track
Uncover hidden viewpoints and unique perspectives away from the crowds.
Atlantic cliffs lookout points
Bracing sea vistas from various cliff-edge spots along the coast.
Boat trips from Achill Sound
Seasonal excursions to nearby islets and seal-watching opportunities.
Sunrise over Keem Bay
An early-morning coastal panorama with golden light over the water.