Located at the western tip of County Clare, Loop Head Lighthouse is a uniquely special place to stay. Remote, wild, and full of natural beauty, the views from the lighthouse are nothing short of breathtaking. Over 160 bottlenose dolphins call the mouth of the Shannon River home, where it meets the wild Atlantic at Loop Head Peninsula. If you’re lucky, you might spot them right from the lighthouse’s cosy reading room. If not, a Dolphinwatch boat trip from Carrigaholt is always an option. The lighthouse itself is open for seasonal tours, and the surrounding area is brimming with activities to keep you busy. To make the most of your stay, we’ve put together a seven-day itinerary filled with our top recommendations. Whether you’re after outdoor adventure, historical exploration, or simple relaxation, this guide will help ensure your trip to Loop Head Lighthouse is unforgettable.
Day 1: Watersport Adventure
Kick off your stay with some excitement on the water. Nevsail Watersports and Adventures in Kilkee offer a range of activities including surfing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. Whether you’re a complete beginner or an experienced thrill-seeker, they cater to groups, individuals, teens, and adults alike. After a day of adventure on the waves, you can look forward to returning to the lighthouse and settling in for a peaceful evening surrounded by the crashing ocean.
Day 2: Cycling Exploration
Explore the Loop Head Peninsula on two wheels with an e-bike from Loop Head E-Bikes, available to rent from Loop Head Bikes. E-bikes are an eco-friendly, accessible way to tour the peninsula at your own pace, no matter your fitness level. If you prefer a guided experience, you can book a tour with Matt and learn more about the local history and sights. After a day of pedalling along the coast, retreat to the lighthouse for a quiet night under the stars or cosy up in the sitting room with a warm fire.
Day 3: Deep Sea Fishing
Why not spend a day at sea? Head to Carrigaholt and join Fish and Stay for a deep-sea fishing adventure aboard the Clare Dragoon. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a complete novice, you’ll have the chance to catch a variety of fish like mackerel, cod, whiting, and haddock. Alternatively, Fishing Adventures in Ireland offers trips departing from Kilbaha. There’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of a day spent fishing, followed by the tranquillity of a quiet evening back at the lighthouse.
Day 4: Horseback Riding
For a more relaxed day, enjoy a horseback riding adventure at a nearby equestrian centre in Querin, near Kilkee. Open year-round and catering to all ages and skill levels, you can ride along peaceful country roads or trek down to the beach for a ride with stunning ocean views. It’s a beautiful way to experience the Irish landscape from a different perspective. After your ride, return to the lighthouse to unwind and take in the evening sunset.
Day 5: Guided Tours
If you’d like to delve deeper into the history and nature of Loop Head, book a guided walking tour with local guide Martin Haugh. His knowledge and passion for the area are unmatched. He offers several packages, from scenic walks to more detailed tours, and can even arrange packed lunches or picnics along the way. After a day of exploring on foot, the lighthouse will be a welcoming retreat to rest and recharge.
To dig into the history on your own doorstep, you’ll get an exclusive (and free) tour of the Loop Head Lighthouse – just look out for an email with the details when your stay is confirmed. Please note that the Lighthouse is only open seasonally, so be sure to check the availability calendar to avoid disappointment.
Day 6: Spa and Golf
Co. Clare has earned a reputation as a golfer’s paradise, with some of the most scenic and challenging courses in Ireland just a short drive from Loop Head Lighthouse. Kilkee Golf Club, located just 20km away, offers an 18-hole course with stunning views over the Atlantic, particularly from the first and third tees. For those willing to venture a bit further, Doonbeg Golf Club, 35km from the lighthouse, is renowned for its breathtaking coastal setting and world-class links course. Golfers looking for an even greater challenge can make their way to the famous Lahinch Golf Links, approximately 60km away, which has hosted numerous international tournaments and is considered one of the best links courses in the world. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or just looking to enjoy the fresh sea air and magnificent landscapes, these courses offer unforgettable experiences.
If golf isn’t your thing, the Kilkee Thalassotherapy Centre offers the ultimate in relaxation and rejuvenation, just 20km from the lighthouse. Here, you can pamper yourself with a range of spa treatments that incorporate the healing properties of the Atlantic. Indulge in a natural seaweed bath, a seaweed wrap, or a soothing massage as you unwind and let the stress melt away. After a day of either thrilling golf or serene spa treatments, there’s no better feeling than returning to the cosy, remote haven of Loop Head Lighthouse. The peace and tranquillity of the lighthouse, set against the backdrop of the rugged Atlantic coast, provide the perfect end to a day of adventure or relaxation.
Day 7: Beach Day or Waterworld
Wrap up your stay with a day of fun and relaxation. If the weather is nice, spend time at one of the nearby beaches for a swim or a leisurely walk. If it’s rainy, head to Waterworld in Kilkee, where you’ll find a range of fun features like slides, geysers, a lazy river ride, and more. Reopening for summer 2025, it’s the perfect way to entertain the entire family before returning to the lighthouse for one last night of peaceful solitude.
With this seven-day itinerary, you’ll experience the best of what the Loop Head Peninsula has to offer, all while staying in the unforgettable setting of Loop Head Lighthouse. Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, there’s something for everyone. Enjoy your stay!
Discover the charm of Loop Head Lighthouse.
House Manager Tips:
Our local House Manager has made some additional suggestions for guests.
- The Long Dock Shop offers delicious ice cream along with a convenient click-and-collect service.
- The Irish House in Kilkee serves up a daily selection of freshly baked cakes, pastries, and muffins.
- Kilkee hosts a farmers market every Saturday from 12 to 2 pm, offering homegrown vegetables, eggs, and plants. You can also visit the market in Kilrush every Thursday from 10 am to 12 pm.
- Just 15 minutes from Loop Head, the alpaca farm in Querrin is a popular attraction for visitors. You can find more details at Flying Alpaca.
- Kilbaha Gallery showcases a variety of local crafts, paintings, and souvenirs, all reflecting the beauty and culture of the Loop Head area.
- Halla Eoin is a heritage center in Kilbaha, offering insights into the area’s rich history and a selection of gifts for purchase. It’s open from Friday to Monday, 11 am to 4 pm, from June to September.
- The Bridges of Ross, just five minutes from Loop Head, offer stunning scenery and scenic walking trails. Learn more at Discover Ireland.
- The Church of the Little Ark, just five minutes from Loop Head, is a charming historical site. It houses the ‘Little Ark,’ used in the past when landlords forbade priests from holding Mass in the church, prompting priests to take the Ark to the seashore of Kilbaha to conduct services. Learn more at Love Loop Head.
- The Killimer (Kilrush) ferry to Tarbert in Kerry operates every hour, offering a 20-minute crossing—perfect for those planning a day trip to Kerry. More details can be found at Shannon Ferries.
Where to eat
There is a great selection of places to eat locally.
- The Long Dock is a traditional Irish pub and award-winning seafood restaurant located in Carrigaholt, just 10 minutes from the lighthouse. Visit their website at The Long Dock.
- Keatings is a family-friendly restaurant with a great children’s menu, serving delicious dishes made from local ingredients. Keatings proudly claims to be the “Nearest Bar to New York.” Located at The Pier, Kilbaha South, Kilbaha, Co. Clare, V15 N678.
- The Pantry Foodhall is a charming food emporium offering high-quality artisan produce, fresh bread, scones, deli treats, and takeaway meals. They also serve a fantastic brunch and occasionally run short courses. Learn more at The Pantry Kilkee.
When to visit
There’s never a bad time to visit County Clare. The region hosts a wide range of festivals and special events throughout the year, ensuring there’s always something exciting happening. For a comprehensive list of events, check out Visit Clare Events.
Book Your Stay at Loop Head Lighthouse
When booking your stay at the Loop Head Lightkeeper’s House or any other Irish Landmark Trust property, remember that the longer you stay, the more affordable your nightly rate becomes. With so much to explore in the area, extending your visit by an extra night or two is a great way to fully soak in the beauty and culture of Co. Clare.
Please note, these suggestions are intended to assist with your trip planning. Always verify opening times and booking details on individual websites before finalising your itinerary.