Ireland may be a small island, but it packs quite a punch for travelers. With bustling and historic cities, wide-open countryside and rugged beaches, Ireland is a great locale for families of all ages. For those traveling with the kids this summer, explore Southwest Ireland like a pro with this must-hit list.
Surf and Sail
One aspect of Ireland that tends to get looked over is the country’s coastline. The Atlantic waters move south around the Caribbean and back through the coast of western Ireland offering warmer waters than you’d expect — perfect for surfing and sailing in the summer.
Head to Kinsale Harbor, one of the most famous historic harbors in Europe, and take the kids out for a sailing lesson. The waters are known to be steady and ideal for beginners. Pick a beach, any beach, and picnic with the family, jump in the water and enjoy a classic summer activity in a new way.
Kinsale, Ireland © Arsty | Dreamstime.com
Explore Sea Life
Adventure travelers and active locales know Southwest Ireland to be a top destination for caving and sea exploration, but there is a kid-sized marine world to explore. Get out and observe varied species of dolphins, whales and sea life from a rented boat or cruise. The kids may be tempted to jump in and swim with the wildlife in their natural habitat.
Roam the Countryside
When you picture Ireland, you may see rolling green hills, castles and incredible natural beauty — you’re right. Book a tour and explore with a local expert and enjoy your freedom to roam, or head to the famous pass through The Gap of Dunloe. Walk along mountain ranges or rent bikes and explore local paths through Macgillycuddy’s Reeks. The path extends seven miles through beautiful varied terrain.
Bring the kids to Killarney National Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and Special Area of Conservation, and head out on a hike. Watch for rare local Red Deer and feel transported to another realm with views of dreamy forests and seemingly untouched lakes.
Newman’s Mall and Market, Kinsale © David Ribeiro | Dreamstime.com
Local Culture
The kids have to eat and you’re bound to need a break from all the activities. Head into local towns like Kinsale, Baltimore and Dingle for traditional Irish fare. Rest up for a bit, enjoying the quaint village atmosphere and taking in all the quintessential Irish charm.
Rent a car and roll from town to town on a mini road trip, perfect for the kid’s attention spans and for maximizing your time in Southwest Ireland.
Read This Next
#WhereverFamily
Insta FeedDestinations / North America
Apr 17, 2024Dine on the Ocean Floor in New Brunswick, Canada
The astonishing tides of the Bay of Fundy offer plenty of experiences for family travelers in Maritime Canada. The newest of these is the chance to eat dinner on the floor of the ocean, seated beneath towering cliffs and tide-carved sea stacks. Return the next day to see your former “dining room” under 40 feet of ocean.
Sponsored Content
United Airlines Celebrates its First Class of United Aviate Graduates
As the only major U.S. airline to own a flight school, United Airlines already hit a major milestone, and now the carrier celebrates another important — and historic — step as the inaugural class of United Aviate Academy pilots graduates, leading the next generation of aviators. The 51 students in the graduating class were majority, at 80 percent, women and people of color — another stride toward United’s goal of training 5,000 new pilots by 2030 with half women or POC.
Destinations
Apr 17, 2024Your 2024 Mother’s Day Spa Gift Guide
This Mother’s Day, treat the special lady in your life to a fabulous spa treatment at one of these resorts around the country.
North America
Apr 17, 2024A New, Family-Friendly Hotel Opens on Orlando’s Universal Boulevard
Family travelers to Orlando have a new option for family- and pet-friendly accommodations thanks to the recent opening of Hotel Landy, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel. Located on Universal Boulevard and minutes from theme parks, the convention center and the airport, Hotel Landy takes over the former Hotel Kinetic, joining Marriott’s Tribute Portfolio collection.
Sponsored Content
Unearth Seoul’s Hidden Gems
Filled with hidden treasures waiting to be discovered, Seoul invites travelers to unearth its many gems, and Seoul Tourism Organization is here to help travelers do just that. Through thoughtfully created initiatives like the Theme Tourism County Competition, Seoul Tourism Organization works closely with local districts to identify and showcase what makes each district unique and charming in all seasons.
Destinations / Middle East
Apr 16, 2024Introduce the Family to Saudi Culture at the AlUla Camel Cup
Visiting Saudi Arabia means introducing the family to a country rich in culture and history, giving the kids experiences they won’t get anywhere else in the world. I spent several years living as an expat in this desert kingdom, and the experiences I had were not only completely unique but also helped shape my perspective on the world today.
ShareThis