Dog-Friendly Itinerary for Loop Head Lighthouse, County Clare

Clifftop walks, wild beaches and remote coastal adventures with your dog

Perched at the tip of the Loop Head Peninsula, Loop Head Lighthouse is one of Ireland’s most dramatic coastal stays, and it welcomes dogs. This 19th-century lighthouse cottage sits at the very end of County Clare, surrounded by wild Atlantic coastline and some of the best clifftop walking in the country.

From remote beaches to looped cliff trails and quiet fishing villages, this seven-day itinerary takes you around the southern stretch of the Wild Atlantic Way, where you will find genuine solitude, raw scenery and plenty for an adventurous dog to enjoy.

Quick Facts:

Dog-Friendly Stay at Loop Head Lighthouse

Nearby dog-friendly beaches

Best dog walks nearby

Day 1: Arrive and Explore the Lighthouse Grounds

After arriving at Loop Head Lighthouse, take time to settle your dog into the cottage and explore the immediate surroundings.

The property sits on a working farm right at the tip of the peninsula, with direct access to clifftop paths. Begin with the Loop Head Cliff Walk, a 2km loop from the lighthouse car park that takes in old World War II lookout posts and sweeping headland views. It is a gentle introduction after the drive and gives your dog a chance to settle into a new landscape.

Dogs must be kept on a lead throughout, as the grounds border working farmland. The cliff edges are dramatic, so stay alert, particularly on windy days.

In the evening, drive to Carrigaholt, a picturesque fishing village about 10km away. Stop for dinner at The Long Dock, a 19th-century pub known for its fresh local seafood and a favourite stop on the Wild Atlantic Way. Reviewers have noted bringing dogs to the outdoor seating without issue.

Return to the lighthouse for the night.

 

Day 2: The Loop Head to Kilbaha Loop Walk

Today is for the longer walk.

The Loop Head to Kilbaha Loop Walk is a strenuous 15km route starting from the lighthouse car park. It follows the peninsula’s southern coastline to the village of Kilbaha, then returns along the dramatic sea cliffs on the northern side, passing ringforts, Napoleonic fortifications, WWII lookout posts and some of the best seabird viewing spots in the country.

This is a serious walk. Only attempt it with a dog that has good stamina and sure footing on uneven terrain, and bring plenty of water and food for both of you. If you would like local guidance, Loop Head Walking Tours run guided walks on the peninsula and can arrange packed lunches for longer routes.

At Kilbaha Pier, midway along the route, take a rest and watch the water. Bottlenose dolphins are often spotted in the Shannon Estuary here.

This is a long day, so head back to the lighthouse for a quiet evening by the fire.

 

Day 3: Kilkee Cliff Walk and Pollock Holes

Drive to Kilkee, about 20 minutes from the lighthouse.

Kilkee’s cliff walk begins at the west end of town and follows the coastline, with route options of 5km or 8km. It passes the Pollock Holes, a set of natural rock pools carved into the cliff base, along with views to the Aran Islands, Kerry and Loop Head on a clear day.

At the start of the walk, stop at Diamond Rocks Cafe, which sits directly on the cliff path overlooking the Pollock Holes. Multiple reviewers have noted that dogs are welcome at the outdoor tables, making it a good option for coffee before or after the walk.

Afterwards, visit Kilkee Beach, a Blue Flag horseshoe bay that is regarded as one of the safest swimming spots on the Clare coast. It is a good place to let your dog paddle before heading back.

 

Day 4: Doonbeg Loop Walk and White Strand

Drive north to Doonbeg, about 25 minutes away.

The Doonbeg Loop is an easy 7km walk on minor roads and bog tracks with views across Doughmore Bay and out to Mutton Island. It is a gentler day after the Kilbaha walk and gives your dog a different kind of terrain to explore.

After the walk, spend time at White Strand, a Blue Flag beach sheltered by low rocky cliffs on either side. It is quieter than many Clare beaches and a good place for your dog to swim or run.

For the evening, drive into Doonbeg village for dinner at Morrissey’s of Doonbeg, a family-run bar and restaurant that has been recommended by the Michelin Guide since 2014. It is listed as dog-friendly on Tripadvisor, and reviewers have confirmed dogs were welcomed at the outdoor tables.

Note that Morrissey’s is open from March to November, so check ahead if you are visiting outside this window.

 

Day 5: Spanish Point and a Slow Beach Day

Drive to Spanish Point, about 35 minutes north, for a change of pace.

Spanish Point Beach sits in the horseshoe-shaped Mal Bay and is a Discovery Point on the Wild Atlantic Way. The long sandy strand is popular with surfers and quiet outside summer. There are no verified dog-friendly cafes directly at the beach, so this is a good day to pack a picnic, find a spot on the sand and let your dog explore the shoreline while you watch the Atlantic.

Afterwards, take a short walk into Miltown Malbay, a small market town closely associated with traditional Irish music. The streets are quiet and good for a wander.

Return to the lighthouse in the afternoon and rest.

 

Day 6: Lahinch and Ennistymon

Drive north to Lahinch, about an hour from Loop Head.

Lahinch Beach is one of Clare’s best-known surfing beaches, long and sandy with plenty of room for dogs. Note that the tide comes in quickly once it turns, so check tide times before walking far from the car park.

Lahinch has several confirmed dog-friendly venues. Kenny’s Bar is a fourth-generation family pub where multiple reviews confirm dogs are welcome, including a reviewer who brought a Labrador and noted the staff were accommodating. O’Looney’s Bar and Restaurant sits on the promenade with outdoor seating and is also listed as dog-friendly. P. Frawley’s Bar has an enclosed beer garden where one reviewer confirmed their dog was welcomed with a water bowl provided.

On the way back, take a short detour to Ennistymon, about 10 minutes from Lahinch, and stop at The Cheese Press on the main street, a pet-friendly cafe and specialty grocery that is well-regarded locally for its coffee, sourdough and cheese toasties.

Return to the lighthouse for the final evening.

 

Day 7: Rest Day at the Lighthouse

Your final day is about slowing down.

Do a short, gentle version of the Loop Head Cliff Walk at an easy pace, or simply spend the morning on the headland paths around the lighthouse itself.

Spend the afternoon reading, watching the light change across the peninsula, and cooking a meal at the cottage. Sit by the fire in the evening. This is what you came for.

 

Practical Tips for Travelling with Your Dog to Loop Head

Nearest vet

Kilkee Veterinary Clinic on Circular Road, Kilkee, is around 20 to 25 minutes from the lighthouse. Phone ahead to book, as rural practices can fill up quickly.

Groceries and supplies

The nearest supermarkets with a full range of stock are in Kilrush, including SuperValu, Aldi and Tesco on the Ennis Road, about 30 minutes from the lighthouse. Smaller shops are available in Kilkee and Carrigaholt. Bring dog food, medications and treats from home rather than relying on local availability.

Beach rules

Dogs must be kept on a lead at most beaches along this stretch of coast. Seasonal restrictions are more strictly enforced between June and August. Always check local signage before letting your dog off lead.

Getting around

A car is essential. Loop Head is remote, and every location in this itinerary requires driving. Parking is free at all the beaches and walking routes mentioned above.

Cleaning up

Always bring waste bags and leave no trace, particularly on the clifftop paths and beach approaches.

What to bring

Pack your dog’s lead, crate or bed, bowls, and towels for wet paws after beach days. Bring medications and enough food for the full stay. The cottage is self-catering, so stock up on groceries in Kilrush on your way in.

 

A Week at Loop Head Lighthouse with Your Dog

What makes Loop Head different is its remoteness. This is not a polished, easy-access coastal stay. It is a genuinely isolated base from which to explore some of Ireland’s most dramatic coastline, often with no one else around.

The walks are exceptional. The scenery is hard to match anywhere in the west. The isolation is real, and for the right dog and owner, that is exactly the point.

At the end of each day, you return to the lighthouse, light the fire, and settle into a place that feels genuinely unlike anywhere else in Ireland. Your dog will be worn out and content, and you will have seen a part of Clare that most Irish holiday-goers never reach.

Related Reading

Dog-Friendly Coastal Breaks in Ireland — Beaches, cliff walks and coastal stays perfect for travelling with your dog.

Dog-Friendly Lighthouses in Ireland — The full guide to staying in an Irish lighthouse with your dog.

What Does “Dog-Friendly” Actually Mean? How to Know Before You Book — What to look for in a pet policy before you confirm any booking.

FAQs About Staying at Loop Head Lighthouse With Your Dog

Is Loop Head Lighthouse dog-friendly?

Yes. Loop Head Lighthouse welcomes dogs. The pet fee is €30 per dog per stay, stated clearly before booking. Confirm the full pet policy at irishlandmark.com/bringing-a-dog-policy/.

How many dogs are allowed at Loop Head Lighthouse?

Two dogs are allowed at Loop Head Lighthouse.

Is the garden or grounds enclosed at Loop Head Lighthouse?

No. The property sits on a working farm with open grounds. Dogs must be supervised at all times and kept on leads around areas where livestock are present.

What are the best dog-friendly beaches near Loop Head Lighthouse?

White Strand in Doonbeg is the closest and one of the quietest options. Kilkee Beach and Spanish Point are further along the coast and well worth the drive.

What are the best dog walks near Loop Head Lighthouse?

The Loop Head Cliff Walk (2km) is the most accessible from the lighthouse. The Loop Head to Kilbaha Loop Walk (15km) is a longer, more demanding route for confident dogs and owners. The Kilkee Cliff Walk and Doonbeg Loop are also excellent and within easy driving distance.

Are there dog-friendly restaurants near Loop Head?

Yes. The Long Dock in Carrigaholt and Morrissey’s of Doonbeg both have confirmed dog-friendly outdoor seating. In Lahinch, Kenny’s Bar and O’Looney’s are also dog-friendly.

Is there a vet near Loop Head Lighthouse?

Yes. Kilkee Veterinary Clinic is around 20 to 25 minutes away by car.

Do I need a car at Loop Head Lighthouse?

Yes. A car is essential. Loop Head is remote and the beaches, walks and villages in this itinerary all require driving.

What should I bring for a dog-friendly stay at Loop Head Lighthouse?

Bring your dog’s lead, crate or bed, bowls, towels, waste bags and food. The cottage is self-catering, so plan to stock up in Kilrush on your way in.

Is Loop Head suitable for all dogs?

Loop Head works best for dogs that are comfortable on leads, settled around livestock, and happy with long coastal walks. The remoteness and exposure to Atlantic weather may not suit every dog.

Featured Property

Salterbridge Gatelodge

Salterbridge Gatelodge, located in the glorious Blackwater valley, dates from the mid 19th Century.

View Property

Sign up to our
mailing list

Get the latest news, exclusive deals, and more from Irish Landmark.

Name(Required)
Enter your name
This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Booking Conditions

HOW TO BOOK AN IRISH LANDMARK HOLIDAY : 

It is possible to reserve dates online at www.irishlandmark.com but bookings are not confirmed until a confirmation email is received from the bookings desk.     

BOOKING:  

Your booking must be for holiday purposes only.  Irish Landmark reserve the right to refuse hire for purposes other than holiday accommodation. When you make a booking, you accept full responsibility for all persons who will use or visit the property during the period booked.  When you book, you agree to indemnify us against all loss and damage arising directly or indirectly to the property and its contents from any deliberate or negligent act or omission by yourself, or any person accompanying you. 

CONTRACT OF HIRE:  

The hiring contract shall be between the Hirer and Irish Landmark and made subject to these Booking Conditions . The Contract of Hire is not effective until Irish Landmark dispatches to the Hirer written confirmation of a booking. 

PRICE OF YOUR HOLIDAY:   

Irish Landmark reserves the right to increase or decrease the price of unsold holidays at any time. However, such amendments to price will not be applied to holidays already confirmed.   

V.A.T.:  

All prices quoted are based on current prices and rates of V.A.T. at the time of going to press. Irish Landmark is unable to absorb increases in Value Added Tax or any new forms of taxation which may be introduced. Any such increases will be charged as notified and will be payable. 

DEPOSIT AND BALANCE PAYMENTS:   

All bookings can be paid for in full at time of booking. All bookings made within 12 weeks of stay must be paid in full at time of booking. Bookings made more than 12 weeks in advance of stay require a 30% non-refundable deposit with the balance due 12 weeks before arrival.  Irish Landmark shall be entitled to treat any failure to pay by the due date as a cancellation of the booking and will notify the Hirer by email.  The maximum number of payments for a booking will be limited to two – the deposit and balance payment.   A separate payment may be due where an amendment has been made to the original booking.  

PAYMENT TYPES: 

Payments can be made by credit/debit card (Visa or Mastercard ONLY).    

Payments for properties in the Republic of Ireland are taken in Euros, payments for properties in Northern Ireland are taken in Great British Pounds. 

VOUCHERS:  

Please note that only one voucher can be used per booking.  Vouchers have a strict expiry date. 

CONFIRMATION OF BOOKING:    

Upon receipt of payment by our bookings office, you will receive a confirmation of your reservation.  All charges for the booking will be confirmed in this notification.  Once confirmation has been issued, the Hirer is responsible for the total advertised price of the property and any extras notified.   

AMENDMENTS TO BOOKINGS (excluding cancellations):    

Irish Landmark does not offer a transfer of dates option. A complete change of dates is treated as a cancellation 

CANCELLATION POLICY: We hope that you will not have to cancel your stay, or part of your reservation.  If for any reason this is unavoidable, cancellations must be notified by email to bookings@irishlandmark.com. In the event of cancellation (this includes a reduction in number of nights) your deposit is non-refundable and the following cancellation charges will apply:  

Date of Cancellation 

Cancellation Charge 

More than 12 weeks before start date 

The deposit of 30% 

84 – 28 days before start date 

50% of total rental 

Fewer than 28 days 

100% of total rental 

Irish Landmark does not operate a cancellation insurance scheme for any reason, including Covid-19, and strongly recommends that all guests take out full holiday insurance cover.    

PARTY SIZE AND COMPOSITION:  In no circumstances may more than the number of persons listed on the booking form occupy the property overnight.   Irish Landmark reserves the right to refuse admission if this condition is not observed. Bookings can only be made by adults and cannot be accepted from anyone under the age of 21.  Irish Landmark only allows guest stays where the lead guest is aged 21 years or over.   

ARRIVAL AND DEPARTURE:  

Upon receipt of final payment, you will receive Access Details and Important Information via email about your rental. This includes the contact information of the Local House Manager, directions to the property, arrival and departure time, etc. However, the specific arrival time must be agreed with the relevant local House Manager at least four days prior to holiday start date.  It is the responsibility of the Hirer to arrive at the property at the time agreed with the House Manager. Irish Landmark reserves the right to levy an additional charge if the property is not vacated in accordance with these terms on the day of departure.  

DAY VISITORS:  

The number of day visitors will be limited to the capacity of the property – i.e., a 2-person property may have 2 day visitors, etc.   Prior written consent must be obtained from Irish Landmark Trust for additional numbers of day visitors. 

PERSONAL BELONGINGS: Baggage and personal belongings are always at the Hirers risk. No responsibility can be accepted for loss or damage to any car or its contents. 

POLICY REGARDING DOGS:   

Only certain Irish Landmark Trust properties accept a dog.  ALWAYS check this before you book.  Hirers who have made a reservation and are taking a dog will be required to read and agree to special terms, which details the conditions of bringing a dog to one of these properties.  Failure to comply with these conditions could result in the guest being asked to leave a property.  The rental cost is non-refundable in such cases.   

ELECTRIC VEHICLES: 

Irish Landmark respectfully request that you charge your electric vehicle at the nearest charging point and not at the property.  

HIRER’S RESPONSIBILITY:   

The Hirer is responsible for the property and is expected to take all reasonable care of it. Our House Managers work hard to maintain and clean the buildings and aim to ensure that the property is in a satisfactory condition for your enjoyment.  We ask that you leave the property in a clean and tidy condition upon departure, including all equipment, utensils etc. If the property is left in an unsatisfactory condition and additional cleaning costs are incurred, Irish Landmark reserves the right to recover these costs from the Hirer.   All breakages and damage must be reported to the House Manager immediately so that they can be rectified. All breakages and damage are the legal responsibility of the Hirer and the cost of repair or replacement must be paid to Irish Landmark upon demand.   If there are problems relating to the functioning of the building, please let the House Manager know immediately. Please note that candles are NOT permitted at any Irish Landmark property. Smoking is not allowed inside any Irish Landmark property. 

WEBSITE / LITERATURE:   

While every effort has been made to ensure that the representations stated on our website, or any printed literature, are made in good faith, neither they nor any oral representations made by employees or representatives of Irish Landmark Trust will create liability on the part of Irish Landmark. 

GENERAL:   

There shall be no liability for any claim arising from the act, omission or neglect or default of Irish Landmark Trust, its employees or representatives unless proved to be done with intent to cause damage or recklessly and with knowledge that loss or danger would probably result. Irish Landmark’s agents, servants and employees or other representatives have no authority to waive or modify these Conditions other than in writing. 

RIGHT OF ENTRY:   

On rare occasions Irish Landmark may need access to the property for essential maintenance work, should it be necessary, Irish Landmark will give you as much notice as is possible.   There is no need for you to stay in the property since our House Manager can accompany any such visits. 

COMPLAINTS:  

If you have any complaint during your holiday, please contact the House Manager.  If the matter is not dealt with to your satisfaction, please email bookings@irishlandmark.com outlining details of your complaint.   

IRISH LANDMARK’S RIGHTS:   

Irish Landmark reserves the right to refuse any booking and cancel any booking already made, if in its absolute discretion it considers this to be necessary. Where a booking is cancelled by Irish Landmark, every effort will be made to offer an alternative holiday at no increase in cost.  If the Hirer does not accept the alternative holiday offered, Irish Landmark will return to the Hirer the deposit paid and any other sum paid to Irish Landmark by the Hirer.  Liability for all consequential loss, damage and disappointments is accordingly limited to such return. 

SPECIAL CONDITIONS FOR SPECIFIC DOG – FRIENDLY PROPERTIES 

It is the hirer’s responsibility to ensure they book a specific dog-friendly property if they are bringing a dog.  There are specific terms and conditions that to which the hirer must adhere: 

We allow a dog, but only when they have been booked in and paid for. The “Taking a Dog” option must be selected at time of booking.  A charge will apply.  

Our policy is strictly ONE DOG. If you arrive at the property with more than one dog the House Manger is entitled to deny you access to the property.  If it becomes known during/after your stay that more than one dog is/was with you, you may be asked to vacate the property and a charge of €100/£100 per dog will apply. 

You must bring your own crate/bed in which your dog can sleep.  Please also bring bowls, towels, and waste bags for your dog. 

Your dog must be house-trained and kept under proper control.  Dogs are STRICTLY not permitted on beds, sofas, or any furniture.  There is no exception to this rule.  

Before departure, please thoroughly clean the property, paying particular attention to removing pet hair from rugs and soft furnishings.  A vacuum cleaner is available to you.   

If there is evidence that you have not cleaned up adequately after your stay, you will be charged a flat rate of €100/£100.   

You must double-check that the outside area around the property is free of any foul. Dog fouling inside the property is completely unacceptable.  Guests will be asked to vacate the premises immediately if this is discovered.  

Your dog must not be left unsupervised in the property.  We ask that you take your dog with you when you go out.  Please be mindful of any livestock nearby. 

 

By accepting a confirmation of a reservation from Irish Landmark the lead guest agrees: 

 

I have read and agree to be bound by the Booking Conditions. 

I agree to be held responsible for the balance of hire for the property due and payable in accordance with these terms. 

I understand that most Irish Landmark properties have no television or internet access; that some have no washing machines or dishwashers; and that many have limited mobile phone coverage. 

I understand that as the Lead Person, I am responsible, before their arrival, for informing all guests of Irish Landmark’s booking conditions, and for their observance of same. 

If I am bringing a pet or having day visitors, I have particularly noted the special conditions that apply in these situations 

 

Hirers making a reservation over the telephone are deemed to have read all Booking Conditions and agree to be bound by them.   

 

Availability Calendar

Check availability for all of our properties at a glance here.

Northern Ireland
Loading...
Republic of Ireland
Loading…

Important Notes

1-night stays are not permitted.

Bank Holidays & Special Dates have a set minimum number of nights.

Terms and Conditions apply to all bookings.

Special Offers and Discounts are not valid against existing bookings.

There are restrictions on arrival and departure dates over the Christmas and New Year periods.
Strictly no arrivals or departures on 24th, 25th and 31st of December, or 1st of January.