When you think of Ireland, whales might not be the first thing that comes to mind. However, the southwestern coast of Ireland attracts majestic minke whales, fin whales, and gigantic humpback whales, all drawn to its nutrient-rich waters for feeding. Dingle, a small seaside town on the Wild Atlantic Way, is one of the best places to base yourself for a whale-watching adventure in Ireland.
This bohemian and artistic town is renowned for its coastal adventures and lively pubs, where you can experience world-class traditional Irish music. Venture along the Dingle peninsular, and you'll find an astonishing 6,000 years of history set against the backdrop of the wild Kerry coastline. Here, the raging waves of the Atlantic crash against dramatic cliffs under expansive, moody skies.
Here's why you need to visit Dinle when exploring Ireland's Wild Atlantic Way. See humpback whales Head out on a boat trip off the southwest coast of Ireland, and you might be lucky enough to spot whales and dolphins. The whale watching season typically runs from April to October, with the best chances of spotting humpback whales from mid-June to mid-October.
During this period, these majestic creatures can potentially be seen lunge feeding and tail fluking, particularly in the waters northwest of the Blasket Islands. Family-owned Dingle Sea Safari offers thrilling Rib Experiences to spot whales and other marine life. You can bounce along the swell to see the Blasket Islands, the world-famous Slea Head scenery, rock formations, seals, caves, and puffins.
Speaking on the Travel Goals Podcast , Dingle Sea Safari Skipper Colm said of the local wildlife, "We're quite lucky here; we have a lot of wildlife...
in the last 25 or 30 years, we've seen more fish than we ever have." He added: "We've got more feed out here than we ever have, which tends to attract some of the more interesting wildlife, so on a boat trip, you can see lots of dolphins, minke and fin whales all year round, and we've got the humpbacks on their migration route as well." Their high-speed boat adventure takes you into the Atlantic, where you can witness the awe-inspiring spectacle of humpback whales breaching the surface.
These magnificent creatures migrate through the waters surrounding Dingle, offering a rare opportunity to observe them in their natural habitat. Traditional Irish music in Dingle Dingle is renowned for its vibrant traditional Irish music scene (trad), which is integral to its strong cultural identity. At night, the town's busy pubs come alive with the sounds of fiddles, tin whistles, bodhráns, and accordions, offering visitors an authentic taste of Irish heritage.
Traditional music sessions are nightly, providing a musical experience that locals and tourists cherish. One of the most famous spots for live traditional music is The Dingle Pub. Located in the heart of the town, this lively venue offers music sessions every night of the week.
O'Sullivan's Courthouse Pub is another must-visit for music enthusiasts. Known for its genuine and intimate sessions, this pub prides itself on preserving the heritage of traditional Irish music. True to its name, The Mighty Session Trad Music Pub is dedicated to providing some of Dingle's best traditional music sessions.
The pub attracts talented musicians from the region, ensuring a lively and authentic musical experience. Film locations tour of the Dingle Peninsula Dingle's dramatic landscapes and picturesque settings have made it a favourite location for filmmakers, and the Dingle Film Walks offer a range of film walks where you can explore these iconic sites. Led by expert hiker and award-winning film industry expert Maurice Galway, these guided walks take you through the dramatic Irish scenery featured in numerous films, providing a unique blend of cinematic history and natural beauty.
One of the highlights of the Dingle Film Walks is the tour of Slea Head Drive, which showcases epic coastal views and the rugged beauty of the Atlantic Ocean. This area was the backdrop for the 1970 British epic romantic drama film "Ryan's Daughter," directed by David Lean. As you walk along the cliffs, Maurice shares fascinating stories and insights about the film's production and its impact on the local community.
Another significant location on the tour is the picturesque village of Dunquin, where scenes from "Far and Away," starring Tom Cruise and Nicole Kidman, were filmed. The village offers spectacular views of the Blasket Islands, adding to the charm of the walk. The informative tour also includes visits to other notable sites, such as the ancient Gallarus Oratory and the sandy stretches of Inch Beach, which have appeared in various films and TV series.
Ferry to Blasket Island Taking the ferry to Blasket Island offers a journey into Ireland's past, where you can explore an unspoiled haven of natural beauty and historical significance. The Blasket Islands, located off the coast of the Dingle Peninsula, were once home to a small but vibrant Irish-speaking community. These remote islands were inhabited until 1953, when the last residents left due to the harsh living conditions.
On the windswept island, you can hike along rugged trails, explore the ruins of stone cottages, and enjoy incredible views of the Atlantic. The island is also a haven for wildlife, with seals basking on the beaches and seabirds nesting on the cliffs. Exploring the Dingle Distillery For those who appreciate fine spirits, a visit to the Dingle Distillery is a must.
This artisan distillery is famed for its small-batch whiskey, gin, and vodka, crafted with traditional methods and local ingredients. The distillery tour offers a behind-the-scenes look at the distillation process, from mashing and fermentation to distillation and maturation. Visitors can enjoy tastings of the award-winning Dingle Whiskey, known for its rich, complex flavours.
The gin, infused with botanicals from the surrounding landscape, offers a unique taste of Dingle in every sip. Wave Dingle On a rainy day in Dingle, head to Wave Dingle for a magical interactive experience of life under the sea. This impressive space features large-scale underwater projections and soundscapes.
You can also learn more about local shipwrecks that lie beneath the waves and myths and legends of the sea. Shopping in Dingle Dingle offers a lovely shopping experience, blending traditional Irish craftsmanship with contemporary artistry. The town’s charming streets are lined with an array of independent shops, boutiques, and local producers, each offering unique, high-quality items that reflect Ireland's rich culture and heritage.
Check out Green Street's eclectic fashion and jewellery shops, pick up local ice cream from Murphys and get cheese-based gifts and treats from The Little Cheese Shop. Speaking on Travel Goals Podcast, Irish TV Presenter and Content creator Jamie Flannery said of shopping in the Dingle Peninsula, "What's really unique as well is that 96% of the businesses within Dingle are family-owned businesses, and they've been passed down from generation to generation." Where to eat in Dingle Dingle has a growing reputation as a foodie hotspot.
The charming town transforms into a culinary paradise every October as it hosts its renowned Food Festival. This delicious event draws food enthusiasts from all over, eager to try the best Irish produce and dishes. The popular festival has many attractions, including cookery demonstrations, over 50 market stalls, and wine tastings and workshops.
Foodie must-visits in the town include Murphy's Ice Cream, Out of the Blue, The Fish Box / Flannery's Seafood Bar and The Chart House..
