Dingle Peninsula: Travel Guide
Read our travel guide on Dingle Peninsula in Ireland. Includes best things to do and see, tips on best stops, where to stay, how to get there, or when to go.
For many travelers, Dingle Peninsula is one of the highlights of their Ireland road trip. And it's not hard to see why.
Situated in the northwest of County Kerry, this beautiful piece of land surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean will enchant you with its rugged scenery and breathtaking views, regardless of the season.
One of the main reasons to visit this peninsula is that there are plenty of things to see and do on Dingle for all ages and abilities.
As a result, it also makes it one of the best places to visit on the entire Emerald Isle.
Furthermore, it's also a part of the much bigger scenic route called Wild Atlantic Way, which we easily consider one of the best scenic drives in the world.
After exploring four of the five peninsulas - Mizen, Beara, Sheep's Head, and Iveragh, we couldn't choose a better place to say our farewells to this amazing corner of Ireland.
So here's everything you should know about Dingle Peninsula before you go.
Things to Know Before You Go
If you're planning a trip to Dingle, you've come to the right place.
Before we really dive into it, we should clarify that this guide is mostly aimed at those who want to explore Dingle on a road trip.
We believe driving is the best way to see Dingle Peninsula, but that's just our opinion.
Nevertheless, we hope that even the rest of you who don't want to drive in Ireland will find the following text useful and find some inspiration here.
Starting Point
So, the first question that probably pops immediately into your head is where you should start your Dingle adventure.
The starting point to Dingle is usually considered either Tralee in the northeast or Castlemaine in the southeast.
However, many travelers start their journey in Killarney or Killorglin as they visit Dingle Peninsula right after (or before) the Ring of Kerry.
These towns are a stone's throw away from Dingle and offer great accommodation options.
Driving the Dingle Peninsula
Like the iconic Ring of Kerry, Dingle has a circular route that goes around the peninsula.
However, this loop has no fancy name, such as the Iveragh Peninsula has the Ring of Kerry.
The 110-kilometer road that encircles Dingle Peninsula can also be extended with a shorter 40-kilometer loop called Slea Head Drive.
Similar to the Skellig Ring (on the Ring of Kerry), this is a must-do activity when visiting Dingle.
In total, you're looking into a 150-kilometer route packed with rolling hills, farms, cliffs, mountains, beaches, and many more interesting sights along the way.
Clockwise or Counterclockwise
Honestly, it really doesn't matter whether you drive around Dingle Peninsula clockwise or counterclockwise.
We drove around Dingle in a clockwise direction, mostly as we wanted to have the views on our side of the road (and easier access to the viewpoints).
So the only area where it matters is Slea Head Drive, a scenic loop that starts in the town of Dingle.
However, this route doesn't affect the rest of the trip.
Anyway, we believe it's better to do the Slea Head Drive in a clockwise direction due to tour buses (you don't want to meet them in the narrow places).
Dingle Town and Peninsula
Don't forget that the largest town on Dingle Peninsula is named Dingle.
This might be a bit confusing for a first-time visitor, as both the peninsula and the town are often referred to simply as Dingle.
What to See and Do
Dingle Peninsula is a perfect place for a road trip. Dingle is packed with stunning places to visit and fun things to do.
Thanks to its rugged landscape, it's not surprising that both locals and international travelers are drawn to this area for its natural beauty.
The whole peninsula is dotted with amazing lookouts, beautiful beaches, breathtaking scenery, ancient history, and scenic drives.
From driving, walking, cycling, boat trips, fishing, and surfing, Dingle has it all.
Here are tips on the best things to do on the Dingle Peninsula, including all of our favorite stops along the way.
Inch Beach
Our first stop on Dingle Peninsula was the stunning Inch Beach.
If you've dreamed at home while planning your Ireland road trip of sandy beaches stretching for several kilometers, Inch Beach will steal your heart.
This sandy strip is about five kilometers long and perfect for long walks at any time of the year.
In summer, this Blue Flag Beach has a lifeguard and is popular with families with kids, swimmers, surfers, and day-trippers from nearby cities.
If you want to try surfing in Ireland, there are a few surf schools where you can rent a board (and get a lesson if needed).
Going to the beach is one of the best things to do in County Kerry during this period. So, in other words, be prepared for summer crowds.
Minard Beach and Castle
Only a short detour from the N86, Minard Beach is one of the finest examples of the diversity of Dingle's beaches.
With its massive boulders, hidden sandy strip, and castle ruins sitting on a tiny hill at the further end of the beach, Minard is a perfect place to get away from the crowds. Mind you.
The road that leads to the beach is quite narrow and full of blind corners, so make sure to drive carefully here.
However, if you make it all the way here, you will be rewarded with one of the most photogenic beaches in Ireland.
Dingle
The largest town on the peninsula, Dingle, is pretty much a compulsory stop along the way. For starters, it is a great base from which to explore some of the best sights on the peninsula.
Secondly, the town has plenty of nice hotels, seafood restaurants, and traditional Irish pubs (with live Irish music during the summer season) to cater to all your needs.
In case you want to taste some of the local specials, consider taking this Dingle Tasting Tour.
Furthermore, this popular town is also a jumping-off point for Slea Head Drive, one of the highlights of every Dingle trip. We'll talk about this scenic drive in a bit, so stay tuned.
Lastly, in case you love boat trips, this Dingle Bay Islands Tour is among the best things to do while there.
This scenic boat cruise allows you to see Dingle's hidden coves and treacherous cliffs and gives you a good chance to spot puffins, seals, dolphins, and even maybe whales.
Slea Head Drive
To the west of Dingle runs the Slea Head Drive, a scenic, wild, and winding route that encircles the westernmost tip of the peninsula.
Slea Head is a top attraction on the Dingle Peninsula that features some of the finest scenery in this area.
To truly discover all that Dingle Peninsula has to offer, this route should be on your itinerary.
It's best explored by car, but road cycling enthusiasts may consider renting a bike in Dingle.
Whatever the weather, check out the following attractions you will have a chance to visit along the way.
There are even more stops along the way, so don't forget to check out our full guide on Slea Head Drive as well.
Dunmore Head
When discussing superlatives, we can't fail to mention Dunmore Head.
This wild and absolutely stunning promontory is the westernmost point in Ireland and features a short but rewarding trail called Dunmore Head Loop.
If you've ever wondered how it feels to be standing on the edge of Europe surrounded only by the crashing waves of the Atlantic Ocean, walk this trail.
It's an incredible experience, and if you're a fan of the Star Wars trilogy, you should also know that this area was featured in the movies.
By the way, the drive leading from Dingle to this extreme point of Europe is packed with amazing views, so make sure to stop often on the way there.
Coumeenoole Beach
A wild, beautiful, sandy, and surrounded by cliffs, Coumeenoole Beach is one of the most beautiful places to visit on Dingle Peninsula.
Even though it's not as extensive as Inch Beach, its dramatic scenery will leave you in awe.
During the low tide, explore some of its hidden coves and enjoy its beauty to the fullest.
The Coumeenoole Beach parking area is the same as for Dunmore Head Loop.
Blasket Islands
Undoubtedly, Blasket Islands is one of the most spectacular places to visit when touring the Dingle Peninsula.
Unlike Valentia Island, you will need to catch a boat that goes to this remote archipelago as there is no road bridge this time.
Blasket Islands are known for their rugged landscape and extreme living conditions that resulted in an evacuation of the remaining residents in 1953.
However, the history of these wild islands is far more interesting, and its essence was captured by a few local authors who lived there.
If you want to learn more about this area, about the local people and their lives, head out to The Blasket Centre.
Here you can reserve a Dingle Bay and Blasket Islands Tour in advance.
Dunquin Pier
While we usually don't include piers among the best stops along the way, this time, we need to make an exception.
This small and inconspicuous pier is easily missed but worth a visit.
Driving past without stopping would be a shame, though, as this is one of the most photogenic places in Ireland.
The Blasket Centre
Also known as The Great Blasket Centre and Island, this informative museum gives you a good background on what the local life used to be in this area and on the nearby islands in the past.
It's situated in the village of Dunquin, only a short drive from Dunquin Pier.
By the way, Blasket Centre is one of the best things to do on Dingle on a rainy day.
There is a small admission, but if you're interested in the history of Ireland's remote areas, it's definitely worth seeing.
Gallarus Oratory
In our case, this was the final stop on Slea Head Drive before returning back to the town of Dingle.
It's a quick but interesting stop that allows you to learn more about the rich archaeological heritage of this area.
Gallarus Oratory is a tiny structure that was built without a mortar (dry stone technique) and is a fine example of Early Christian history in Ireland.
Its main feature is the unique corbelled roof that is even to this day waterproof.
In case you want to see more history, make sure to also stop at the nearby Riasc Monastic Settlement.
Conor Pass
On a clear, sunny day, a scenic drive along Conor Pass is one of the best things to do on Dingle Penisula.
The views from the pass are unparalleled, and driving along the narrow stretch of the road at the top is an experience on its own.
While you can drive across the pass, even in poor weather conditions, you won't get any views, and getting through the narrow part might be more stressful.
Conor Pass also features a short trail to Peddler's Lake and a tiny waterfall fed by a stream from this glacial lake.
When deciding whether to drive Conor Pass or take N86 instead to get to the other side of Dingle Peninsula, this scenic route is the obvious choice.
Tralee
Thanks to its hard-to-beat location and Norman history reaching back into the 13th century, the charming town of Tralee is a perfect place to kick off your Dingle adventure.
Many travelers use it as a base for exploring not only the Dingle but also nearby places such as Banna Strand, Ardfert Cathedral, or Ballyseedy Woods.
So what is there to see and do in Tralee?
You can take your kids to swim in the Tralee Aqua Dome, learn about the local history at Kerry County Museum, admire the beautifully restored Blennerville Windmill, visit the Rose of Tralee Festival, try golfing at Tralee Golf Club, or go hiking in the Slieve Mish Mountains.
As you can clearly see, you won't get bored while there.
Dingle Way
Is a road trip not your cup of tea? Consider hiking the Dingle Way, a long-distance trail hugging the wild coastline of the Dingle Peninsula.
This 180-kilometer circular route starts (and ends) in Tralee, and it's traditionally walked in a clockwise direction.
It's the ultimate way to experience Dingle Peninsula, its rugged landscape, sandy beaches, and uninterrupted ocean views.
It can be done in seven to ten days, depending on your fitness level, the current weather, and your determination.
Clearly, Dingle Way is one of the best treks in Ireland, but only a fraction of international visitors have enough time to walk this trail.
Entrance Fee
One of the best things about Dingle Peninsula is that it's a great place to visit if you're doing Ireland on a budget.
Only a few places charge an entry fee, but these are mostly private attractions that are not essential to visit.
Opening Hours
Most of the natural attractions, trails, lookouts, etc., on Dingle Peninsula, are open 24/7.
Obviously, private areas, museums, and tour offices have opening times.
How Much Time Do I Need
Every trip to Dingle Peninsula is individual, and there is no easy answer to this question.
The general rule of thumb is that anything from a half-day to a full day on Dingle should be enough.
Clearly, the more time you spend, the less rushed the trip will feel.
1 Day
In general, you will need a full day for Dingle Peninsula, at least if you don't want to feel rushed.
A one day in Dingle Peninsula sounds about right, especially during the summer when the days are long.
You will have plenty of time to pull over as many times as you want, do some shorter walks, explore the beaches, learn about history, and soak in the atmosphere.
Half-day
If you're pressed for time, we believe you can get the most out of the peninsula even in a shorter period.
In this case, allow yourself about six hours for Dingle. You will still have enough time to see the most beautiful parts of Dingle, but your trip might feel a bit rushed.
If you focus mainly on driving with minimum stops, you will relatively complete the loop.
However, we believe this is not an ideal approach, as Dingle deserves more of your time.
2-3 Days
Two or three days allow you to see Dingle from a different perspective.
The advantage of slow travel is that it often leads you off the beaten path and allows you to visit places most visitors skip.
The main upside of two days in Dingle is that you will have a chance to spend a night directly on the peninsula.
This gives you a huge advantage to plan your day as you want and start early (finish late) to beat the crowds.
Honestly, three days in Dingle are probably too much, especially during the summer when you can take advantage of the long days.
Week
Some travelers decide to base themselves in Dingle even for an entire week, but not many people can afford to spend that much time in one place.
Honestly, we would rather explore some other areas of County Kerry if we had this amount of time.
When to Go
It comes without a surprise when we say that the weather always plays a vital role in the success of every trip.
To avoid disappointment, be prepared that the weather in the Ireland's coastal areas is as unpredictable as it can be.
Here you will find more tips on when to visit Ireland.
Summer
Weatherwise, summer is the best time to visit Dingle Peninsula.
Thanks to long and warm days, this is the most popular time of the year for exploring not just Dingle but the entire Ireland.
However, be prepared that the accommodation prices are highest during this period, and hotels fill up quickly.
Dingle Peninsula gets very busy during summer, and some parking areas (usually beaches) fill up early in the morning, especially on the weekends.
Spring and Autumn
Spring and autumn are great seasons to visit Dingle as well.
Chances are the weather will be pleasant, but you will meet fewer tourists along the way. That being said, the weather on the day (early May) we visited Dingle Peninsula was absolutely brutal.
On the other hand, we pretty much had Dingle for ourselves.
Despite the rain and wind, we still enjoyed the views, and at least I could properly test my new rain jacket.
Winter
If you don't mind short and wet days, winter is a great time to visit Dingle for those looking for solitude and deserted roads.
Don't forget that the weather in winter can be really miserable in the coastal regions, so it's good to know what you're getting into.
This time of the year is definitely not for everyone, but if you know what to expect, it might be well worth the effort.
What to Pack
As we hinted above, make sure to bring clothes according to the season you're visiting Ireland.
Don't forget that you will most likely visit other places as well.
So the good quality rain jacket and sturdy hiking shoes will come in handy not just here but also in places such as Connemara National Park or the Wicklow Mountains.
And don't forget you will most likely experience wet and windy days, even during the summer.
Speaking of wind, gusts can be pretty strong, so make sure your jacket is also wind-proof.
Warm summer days are great for exploring the local beaches, so don't forget to bring your favorite swimwear, a waterproof dry bag, and strong sunscreen.
Here you will find our Ireland packing list if you're looking for more inspiration.
How to Get There
There are several ways to get to Dingle Peninsula; some are easy and convenient, while some are not.
As we wanted to road-trip Ireland and eventually make it even to Northern Ireland, our decision was very easy this time.
Luckily, renting a car in Ireland is easy and even quite economical if you book your vehicle in advance.
And while driving in Ireland might seem a bit daunting at first, it's not that bad (it also helps to read our guide to know what to expect).
By the way, the size of the car matters on Ireland's peninsulas, as some of the roads are very narrow.
For this reason, we opted for a small compact car that allowed us to have a stress-free trip. Obviously, driving is not your only option.
Car
Without any doubt, the best way to get to Dingle Peninsula is by car.
The main advantage is that you can visit as many places as you want at your own pace. Simply put, we believe it's the best way to see more.
Castlemaine, one of the entry points to Dingle, is only 20 kilometers from Killarney, home to the famous Killarney National Park.
It takes about two hours to get to the peninsula from Cork. Tralee is under two hours drive from Limerick.
From Dublin or Dublin Airport, allow yourself at least four hours for the trip to Dingle.
Travel Resources
When renting a car, we use Rentalcars.com.
Public Transport
If you're visiting Dingle Peninsula for the first time, we would probably steer you away from using public transport.
It's true that the bus from Tralee to Dingle runs several times a day, but that's about where the good news ends.
The next step is how you will get to Dingle's top attractions, meaning you will need to look into another mode of transport.
In the summer, there might also be a bus running from Killarney to Dingle, but you need to check whether it's running each season.
In case public transport is the way you want to get around Ireland, don't forget that you can also get to Tralee by train from almost every major city in Ireland (though you will most likely need to change to another train at some point).
Tours
Visiting Dingle Peninsula with a knowledgeable guide is a viable option for those who prefer organized trips.
There are plenty of advantages why to take a tour, as they offer the most hassle and worry-free way to explore new destinations.
Here you can reserve a popular Dingle Peninsula Tour in advance.
How to Get Around
There is one more important thing you should consider before choosing the transport mode. How you will actually get around the peninsula.
For obvious reasons, we believe that driving is also the best way to get around Dingle Peninsula.
Once you reach the peninsula by car, you will quickly understand why we support this opinion.
Despite its increasing popularity, this area is still very rural, and relying on public transport might not be the greatest idea, especially if your itinerary is packed to the brim.
And if you want to take a taxi or join an organized tour, you won't save that much money.
Enthusiast cyclists might consider renting a bike in Dingle and cycling around the scenic Slea Head Drive.
Be prepared that this might be a challenging activity in case of bad weather.
In case you're an avid hiker and have about ten extra days, consider hiking the Dingle Way to see the peninsula from a completely different perspective.
Where to Stay
The town of Dingle is the main tourist hub on the peninsula. Therefore, it's one of the best places to stay overnight in this area.
In the peak season, the accommodations on Dingle Peninsula fill up quickly, and it's best to book your hotel early to secure a better deal.
If you're looking for a bit more luxury, you will probably need to stay in larger towns such as Killarney or Tralee.
However, the small family-run bed and breakfasts are a great way to find some quiet times and meet locals while exploring the peninsula.
So here are tips on the best hotels on Dingle Peninsula.
Inch | Inch Beach House - Thanks to its beach location, this small bed and breakfast is probably your best bet when it comes to accommodation at Inch Beach. The rooms are bright and offer panoramic views, the staff is friendly, and free private parking is available.
Dingle | Dingle Bay Hotel - Situated in the heart of Dingle, this cute hotel features cozy rooms, a fantastic location, a hearty Irish breakfast, and a welcoming staff.
Castlemaine | Murray's Mountain View - This charming little bed and breakfast is located in a quiet area near Castlemaine and offers spacious rooms, homey vibes, and free private parking.
Ballyferriter Village | Hotel Ceann Sibeal - One of the few hotels in the area, this accommodation offers spacious rooms with lovely decor, an ideal location, ample parking, and helpful staff.
Tralee | Ashe Hotel - Situated in the heart of Tralee, this beautiful boutique hotel features modern rooms, a casual dining experience, helpful staff, and great breakfast options.
Killarney | Earls Court House - Set in a quiet suburb, this hotel features spacious rooms with stylish decor, rustic charm, and an extensive buffet breakfast.
Staying Safe
Dingle Peninsula is generally a very safe place to visit. As always, use your common sense to stay safe and avoid any unpleasant situations.
From our own experience, we can say that the local weather can be harsh and unpredictable, so always make sure to come prepared.
We already mentioned several essentials you should bring for your trip in the text above.
Even though most parking areas seem super safe, never leave your valuables in your vehicle.
If there is no way around it, hide them well out of sight and lock your car. And lastly, slow down on the local roads, as there is no reason to rush.
Also, the peninsula is often foggy, reducing visibility and making driving a bit more challenging.
For more information on this topic, read our post on staying safe in Ireland.
Travel Insurance
We never leave home without travel insurance that was designed to cover our expenses if something goes wrong during the trip.
Travel insurance protects against theft, flight delays, injury, illness, cancellations, and much more.
World Nomads provides travel insurance for travelers to cover their trip essentials, including sports and adventure activities.
SafetyWing is affordable travel insurance for backpackers, long-term travelers, and digital nomads.
Travel smarter and safer!
Is Dingle Peninsula Worth Visiting?
Without any doubt, Dingle Peninsula is worth visiting, as it's one of the most beautiful places in County Kerry.
If you have enough time, it shouldn't be missing from your Ireland road trip itinerary.
The scenery is breathtaking, the local roads are in good condition, there are plenty of things to see and do, and you don't need that much time to see it all.
Plus, the endless views of the Atlantic Ocean, the smell of sea spray, and the sound of crashing waves into the rocks make an unforgettable scene.
Dingle Peninsula is also a great place to visit after (or before) touring the Ring of Kerry.
For us, it was the last of the peninsulas in Ireland's southwest we explored on our journey to Cliffs of Moher and Burren National Park.
And as mentioned at the beginning of this guide, a perfect farewell.
Travel Resources
Here you can find links to all the travel resources we use and which you might find helpful when planning your next holiday.
Accommodation: When looking for accommodation, we usually search hotels via Booking.com or Hostelworld.
Tours: Although we love to travel independently, some places are better to visit with a guided tour.
We prefer GetYourGuide for its easy-to-use interface and solid reputation. Another great alternative is Viator.
Rental Cars: When going on a road trip, we always use Rentalcars.com, a reliable site for booking a rental car in advance.
Flight Tickets: When looking for flight tickets, you can search Skyscanner to find the best price.
Travel Insurance: World Nomads and SafetyWing cover against risks of travel.
