Who knew that kayaking in Ireland could be such a breathtaking adventure? I certainly didn’t until I gave it a go and, let me tell you, it was nothing short of spectacular. Gliding through the water, with only the sound of my paddle gently breaking the surface, I felt a connection to nature that was both exhilarating and serene.
Exploring Ireland’s kayaking spots opened up a whole new world to me. From hidden coves where dolphins play hide and seek, to tranquil rivers that wind past ancient ruins and under old stone bridges, every paddle stroke brought a discovery. It’s a unique way to experience the wild side of the Emerald Isle, up close and personal.
And the best part? The variety of locations means there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re a seasoned kayaker or just looking to try something new, Ireland’s waters welcome you with open arms. It’s an adventure I’ll never forget and I’m already planning my next trip back. Fancy joining?
☝️ How we rated the services below:
Selecting the best kayaking spots in Ireland requires careful consideration. Here’s what guides our choices:
- Scenery and Environment: We prioritize spots that offer breathtaking views and a pristine environment. We need to recommend locations where kayakers can truly appreciate the natural beauty of Ireland.
- Accessibility and Facilities: We consider how easy it is to access the kayaking spots, including the availability of parking and launch points. Facilities like rentals, changing areas, and safety stations are also key factors for us.
- Water Conditions and Suitability: We assess the variety of water conditions available, from calm lakes for beginners to challenging coastal waters for experienced paddlers. Ensuring there are options for all skill levels is important to us.
- Wildlife and Conservation Areas: We value spots that offer opportunities for wildlife sightings and are part of conservation efforts. Respecting and preserving Ireland’s unique ecosystems is a priority in our recommendations.
- User Reviews and Community Feedback: We listen to the kayaking community, incorporating user reviews and feedback into our selection. Positive experiences from a diverse range of kayakers help us identify truly exceptional kayaking spots.
Our Favourite Places in Dublin & Ireland
🍺 GUINNESS STOREHOUSE – Experience the Home of Guinness
🧚 BOOK OF KELLS – Trinity College Library + Ancient Manuscript Tour
🚍 CLIFFS OF MOHER – Full-Day adventure from Dublin to the breathtaking Cliffs of Moher & Galway.
🇮🇪 HOP ON HOP OFF BUS – Dublin City Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour
🎟 DUBLIN PASS – Go City All-Inclusive Pass for 40+ top attractions including Guinness Storehouse and Hop-On Hop-Off tours
Paddle Into the Unknown: Ireland’s Secret Kayaking Spots!
☝️ Our team, along with family and friends, plunged into Ireland’s waters, paddling through countless spots to bring you the ultimate guide to the best kayaking experiences. It was a journey of discovery, filled with laughter and adventure, to ensure you get firsthand insights into the “Best Kayaking Spots In Ireland”.
North Clare Sea Kayaking
My family recently took a kayaking tour in Ballyvaughan with North Clare Sea Kayaking and were enthralled by the experience. Everyone, from my 77-year-old father to my 18-year-old niece was able to safely participate thanks to the agile and knowledgeable instructors! After being outfitted with all of the necessary gear, we paddled along the coastline, soaking in beautiful views and learning interesting facts about the local marine life.
Not only was our guides’ expertise invaluable, they also provided us lots of fun facts and kept up lively conversations that felt more like time spent with friends than any establishment transaction. Between our eager reception at check-in and heartfelt goodbyes when parting ways at dusk, it felt safe to say that each one of us left feeling just as welcome as if we had been visiting family on a warm summer day trip.
If you’re looking for an adventure that combines both breathtaking mystery tricks your best friends might impress you with – this isn’t something I can recommend enough!
| Name | North Clare Sea Kayaking |
| Website | http://www.northclareseakayaking.com/ |
| Address | Ballyvaughan, Lisnanard, Co. Clare, Ireland |
| Contact Details | 085 119 5489 |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Thursday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Friday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Saturday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Sunday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Google Rating | 4.7 Stars out of 5 |
| Total Reviews | 39+ reviews |
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Atlantic Sea Kayaking – Lough Hyne
If you’re looking for a unique and mesmerizing adventure in Ireland, Atlantic Sea Kayaking is the place to go. From its beautiful location at Lough Hyne to their specially trained guides and helpful staff, there’s something for everyone here. The bioluminescence lake experience offers a rare glimpse into the magical undersea world of glimmering algae in the darkness. You’ll be guided by friendly and knowledgeable local experts who are sure to tell you about the history surrounding this fascinating area as well as provide tips on paddling techniques so that your kayak outing is more enjoyable. Plus, when conditions permit they offer stargazing opportunities as well!
The customer service at Atlantic Sea Kayaking is also noteworthy — upon reviewing recent reviews they have been consistently prompt in responding to questions or providing refunds due to unexpected weather-related cancellations. What’s more, all equipment provided is top quality and safety instructions are always very clear from start to finish; making it easy for even first-time kayakers with no prior experience feel comfortable exploring out on the lake. Not only that but tours can cater for large groups meaning special events such as birthdays or anniversaries can easily be catered for if desired!
All things considered, visitors’ experiences of spending time on Lough Hyne with Atlantic Sea Kayaking have generally been positive with many coming back again multiple times while others having recommended these offerings highly among friends & family; adding further proof that it truly is a wonderful experience worth visiting frequently (even if just once!). With caring staff preparedness at every step of your journey & plenty of exciting activities ready upon arrival – this venue surely won’t disappoint any adventurer looking to find something new amid an ambient setting like never before!
| Name | Atlantic Sea Kayaking – Lough Hyne |
| Website | http://www.atlanticseakayaking.com/ |
| Address | Lough Hyne, Ballyoughtera, Co. Cork, Ireland |
| Contact Details | (028) 21058 |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 9:00 AM – 12:00 AM Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 12:00 AM Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 12:00 AM Thursday: 9:00 AM – 12:00 AM Friday: 9:00 AM – 12:00 AM Saturday: 9:00 AM – 12:00 AM Sunday: 6:30 PM – 12:00 AM |
| Google Rating | 4.8 Stars out of 5 |
| Total Reviews | 89+ reviews |
Wicklow Kayaking
Wicklow Kayaking is a fantastic and adventurous place to visit for all ages! Not only do they provide you with the latest and best canoes, kayaks and equipment, but their staff are always friendly, welcoming and helpful. Their shallow waters make it safe for even younger children to be out on the water while learning new skills.
The price is great value so wouldn’t hesitate in recommending a trip here as either an individual or small group. It’s truly a wonderful experience taking in the views of Ireland from the water level angle with nature surrounding you all around. Plus their main service aim “We strive to offer our customers excellent service” could not have been clearer than when I visited them myself!
That being said there’s no need to look any further because Wicklow Kayaking offers literally everything one would want: comfortable facilities in stunning surroundings at an affordable rate- perfect for anyone wanting some adventure packed into their day!
| Name | Wicklow Kayaking |
| Website | http://www.wicklowkayaking.ie/ |
| Address | Unit SM2/2A, Wicklow Enterprise Centre, The Murrough, Wicklow, Ireland |
| Contact Details | 085 147 1155 |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Closed Tuesday: Closed Wednesday: Closed Thursday: Closed Friday: Closed Saturday: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM Sunday: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Google Rating | 4.7 Stars out of 5 |
| Total Reviews | 64+ reviews |
Atlantic Sea Kayaking – Reen Pier
Atlantic Sea Kayaking at Reen Pier is an exciting adventure that will be worth your time. Their guides Jim and Declan have great fun, knowledge of the local area, and experience in kayaking. The customer service provided during this tour was impeccable as well. With a variety of paddling experiences, amazing bioluminescence to witness, friendly staff and relaxed wave paths it makes for a wonderful trip.
The kayak tours are suitable for people of all ages with safety taken into consideration through thorough briefing sessions given before any journey starts out making sure everyone stays safe from start to finish. Additionally they provide all the necessary gear you need including wetsuits so there’s no need to purchase anything before hand which saves money! Lastly Rosie & Santy are fantastic guides filled with marine life knowledge and awe-inspiring stories about stars that you won’t find anywhere else so there’s guaranteed entertainment along the way
Overall Atlantic Sea Kayaking at Reen Pier is definitely worth visiting if you’re looking for some outdoor family fun or just want some thrilling memories – either way I promise it’ll leave lasting memories!
| Name | Atlantic Sea Kayaking – Reen Pier |
| Website | http://www.atlanticseakayaking.com/ |
| Address | Reen Pier, The League, Unionhall, Co. Cork, Ireland |
| Contact Details | (028) 21058 |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 9:00 AM – 12:00 AM Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 12:00 AM Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 12:00 AM Thursday: 9:00 AM – 12:00 AM Friday: 9:00 AM – 12:00 AM Saturday: 9:00 AM – 12:00 AM Sunday: 9:00 AM – 12:00 AM |
| Google Rating | 4.9 Stars out of 5 |
| Total Reviews | 114+ reviews |
Lough Hyne Forest
Lough Hyne Forest is definitely worth visiting – it’s beautiful, and a great place for outdoor activities. There are trails winding through the forest with gorgeous views of the loch and across to the Atlantic coast. The walk up to the top can be quite steep in some parts but it’s well worth the effort when you reach the summit! Not only do you get an amazing view from there but depending on what time of year you visit, there will be different plants blooming which just adds to its beauty.
And that’s not all – beside Lough Hyne Forest lies a lake where visitors can swim during summertime. It’s lovely to take a break here after your hike, or spend some time picnicking or relaxing by its shores as nature surrounds you in perfect tranquility. With 152+ reviews online and 4.9 stars out of 5 rating, how can anyone go wrong?
Overall, if you’re looking for somewhere special with plenty of natural beauty then Lough Hyne forest should absolutely be at the top of your list! Highly recommendable – even if it requires physical effort– so don’t miss out!
| Name | Lough Hyne Forest |
| Website | https://www.theirishroadtrip.com/lough-hyne/ |
| Address | knockomagh woods, Co. Cork, Ireland |
| Contact Details | |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Open 24 hours Tuesday: Open 24 hours Wednesday: Open 24 hours Thursday: Open 24 hours Friday: Open 24 hours Saturday: Open 24 hours Sunday: Open 24 hours |
| Google Rating | 4.9 Stars out of 5 |
| Total Reviews | 152+ reviews |
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My Final Thoughts
Exploring the best kayaking spots in Ireland has truly been an adventure close to my heart. Each paddle stroke through the serene lakes, rugged coastlines, and hidden coves brought me closer to the wild, untouched beauty of the Emerald Isle. It’s a journey filled with laughter, camaraderie, and the thrill of discovery, making every moment on the water an unforgettable experience. Ireland’s kayaking destinations offer something magical for everyone, whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned paddler. I’m thrilled to have shared this guide with you, hoping it inspires your next paddling adventure in Ireland’s stunning landscapes. Here’s to finding joy in the journey and the beauty of nature that surrounds us.
Paddle Through Knowledge: Your Ultimate Guide to Kayaking in Ireland FAQs
What makes Ireland a prime destination for kayaking enthusiasts?
Ireland’s diverse range of kayaking spots, from tranquil lakes to thrilling white-water rapids and rugged coastlines, makes it a prime destination. The breathtaking scenery and close encounters with wildlife add to the allure, offering both beginners and seasoned kayakers unforgettable experiences.
How can beginners get started with kayaking in Ireland?
Beginners can dive into kayaking in Ireland by joining guided tours available at various locations. These tours often provide all the necessary gear and are led by experienced instructors who ensure a safe and enjoyable introduction to the sport.
What’s the best time of year to go kayaking in Ireland?
The best time for kayaking in Ireland typically ranges from late spring to early autumn. These months offer milder weather and longer daylight hours, making it ideal for enjoying the water and the scenic views.
Are there any safety tips I should follow while kayaking in Ireland?
Yes, always wear a life jacket, check the weather forecast before heading out, stick to routes that match your skill level, and if possible, kayak with a group or a guide. Ireland’s weather can be unpredictable, so preparation is key.
Can I spot wildlife while kayaking in Ireland?
Absolutely! Kayaking in Ireland offers unique opportunities to see wildlife up close, including seals basking on rocks and dolphins jumping out of the waves. The clean waters and rich biodiversity make every trip a chance for a memorable encounter.
What should I bring for a kayaking adventure in Ireland?
For a kayaking adventure in Ireland, you’ll need waterproof clothing, a life jacket, sunscreen, snacks, and water. Don’t forget your camera to capture the stunning landscapes and wildlife you’ll encounter along the way.
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