Driving the Dingle Peninsula in Ireland

I debated a lot when planning our trip to Ireland on which famous drive we should do. We didn’t have time to do both the Ring of Kerry and the Dingle Peninsula, so of course, I took to the blogs to figure out which one we should do. I ultimately decided on the Dingle Peninsula for stunning coastline views and a less crowded drive since this was Joseph’s first time driving on the left side of the road. We also opted to start our day bright and early and luckily there were hardly any other vehicles on the road and we had most of the stops to ourselves. We did this drive coming from Dublin so we stopped in Killarney to stay the night on the way there. This way, we got to add on the Gap of Dunloe at the beginning of our Dingle Peninsula day. We also added on the Cliffs of Moher at the end of our day, which was only a 3.5-hour drive from Dingle.

If you’re interested in our full Ireland itinerary follow this link:

*coming soon*

Follow this link for a google maps route of the drive:

https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/0/edit?mid=1Qrf6PlYoq9QM14vcFG6Uzlyi1QCUtjY&usp=sharing

Stop 1: Inch Beach

Inch Beach is a 3 miles long and it’s a quick stop. We only spent about 10 minutes here.

Stop 2: Coumeenoole Beach and Dunmore Head

This may have been our favorite stop of the drive. View the beach from above and then do the walk to Dunmore Head. We spent about an hour here, the walk is 1.6 miles long. The trail is not well marked, you have to climb over a short rock fence to get to the walking path. I recommend checking out AllTrails for the exact route if you are having a hard time finding the start. When we went it was VERY windy. Make sure you’re wearing good shoes and bring a raincoat with you. Dunmore Head was the site of some scenes in Star Wars: The Last Jedi!

Stop 3: Dunquin Pier (Cé Dhún Chaoin)

This is a functioning pier where a ferry that goes to the Blasket Islands leaves from. This is a quick stop, enjoy the view from the top and go on your way!

Stop 4: Clogher Strand

Clogher Strand is another beach to view from afar. You can walk down to the beach, but we opted to take in the views from the top. This is a quick stop, from here you’ll turn around and head back towards Dingle.

Stop 5: Dingle city

It should be about time for brunch or lunch. I recommend stopping at My Boy Blue. The Fish Box is also highly rated but was closed when we were there. After lunch, spend the next couple of hours exploring the town of Dingle. It’s full of colorful buildings and great local shopping.