North Kerry's Cliff-Edge Coast
3 stops · 9 min driving · Kerry · Updated August 2026
Open in Google MapsOne stretch of North Kerry coastline holds three of the county's best cliff-top sights, and this short drive strings them together in order. It begins in the seaside town at the ruins of a 16th-century tower house, follows the headland path past blowholes and sea arches, and ends on quieter farmland cliffs a few kilometres north. Parking is free at the first two stops; the last charges a small honesty-box fee. Both cliff walks are open year-round, though Atlantic winds can be fierce in winter and the town is quiet outside April–September. Start on a calm day to catch the best light on the sea stacks.
1.Ballybunion Castle
A ruined tower above two beaches
Begin where the coast makes its statement: climb the worn anti-clockwise spiral staircase into what remains of the tower house, with both Blue Flag beaches spreading out below and the Atlantic ahead. The ruin is free, open year-round and unfenced, so the headland feels raw — stand at the edge, take in the scale, then set off along the cliff path that starts from Ladies Beach.
- Tip
- Park free near the playground or Ladies Beach; the private lot at the top of the beach entry charges €5 with no posted pricing.
↓ 5 min drive · 2.1 km
2.Ballybunion Cliff Walk
Blowholes, arches and a Druid's Lair
The path that started beside the beaches now does the talking. Flat gravel underfoot, white arrows to follow, and every few steps a reason to stop: the Nine Daughters' Hole blowhole, the Virgin Rock sea arch, and the Druid's Lair cleft where choughs nest. Scan the Shannon Estuary on calm days — Ireland's only known resident dolphin pod lives down there.
- Tip
- The trail starts above Ladies Beach across from the Cliff House Hotel; it crosses private land, so keep to the path.
↓ 4 min drive · 2.5 km
3.Bromore Cliffs
The quieter, wilder finale
End where the road runs out of town. A well-fenced grass path on private farmland follows 180-foot cliffs past the Devil's Castle sea stack to an Iron Age fort perched on a 200-foot drop — and, unusually for a headline viewpoint, you will likely have it to yourself. Information plaques tell the story of each rock formation below.
- Tip
- On-site farm parking costs €5 per car via an honesty box — look for signs off the road about 3 km north of Ballybunion.
Frequently asked questions
Is the route free to do?
Both the castle and the cliff walk are free and open year-round with no booking. Bromore Cliffs sits on private farmland and charges €5 per car for parking through an honesty box, which goes towards upkeep of the cliffs and walkway.
Where should I park?
Free parking is available near the playground above the beaches, in the car park above Men's Beach, and in limited spaces above Ladies Beach. Bromore has on-site farm parking for €5 per car. Spaces can be scarce on sunny summer days, so arrive early in peak season.
When is the best time to visit?
April to September is when the route is at its best — the town is buzzing, the beaches are lifeguarded, and the Bromore clifftop is in flower. On calm days you may spot the Shannon Estuary's resident dolphins; winter brings fierce winds and many closed businesses.