We tried these 9 things to do in Doolin, and we can’t wait for you to try them too!
Whenever I think about Doolin, I always feel the warmth and coziness this town brings. Aside from the charming colorful cottages and the little farm spots, I love walking along the streets hearing traditional music.
Recently, I discovered historical spots and other activities that I can enjoy with my family or friends when in Doolin. That’s why I’m planning another trip to this place next month, so I can share the goodness this place brings.
So if you’re on your way to Doolin, make sure to continue reading as I reveal to you the best things to do when you’re in town!
1. Visit the Doolin Cliff Walk
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Website: http://www.doolincliffwalk.com/
Address: Doonnagore, Doolin, Co. Clare
Contact Details: +353 65 707 4170
Operating Hours: Open 24 Hours
For those of you who are craving fresh Irish air, then you can trek at The Doolin Cliff Walk. You’ll need to walk for four hours, but don’t worry, we’re pretty sure you’ll stay energized with the view of the Cliffs of Moher and you’ll also spot the Doonagore Castle!
Here, local tour guides will lead the way while sharing stories about the place’s history, including some folklore.
The tour guide can also share stories about the ancient farming practices in the land, perfect for those who want to dive a little deeper into the city’s past.
From here, you’ll also hear the Atlantic Ocean’s waves crashing, which we think is very therapeutic. Just make sure you’re ready physically, as the trail is uphill with cliff edges on the side!
You’ll know when you’ve reached your destination once you get to the highest point of the Cliffs of Moher, standing at 702 feet above sea level.
After your trek, you’ll be dropped at the visitor center where you can grab some souvenirs to remind you of this trip.
Pro tip:
Don’t forget to bring a rain jacket as the weather can be unpredictable in the area. Additionally, you should also wear sturdy walking shoes or boots as the trail is quite challenging to traverse.
2. Relax at Lahinch Beach
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Website: https://www.discoverireland.ie/clare/lahinch-beach
Address: Ennistymon Rd, Dough, Lahinch, Co. Clare
Contact Details: (065) 6821616
Operating Hours: Open 24 Hours
If you’re looking for water activities when you’re in Doolin then you should visit Lahinch Beach. Here, you can enjoy surfing, kite surfing, and kayaking.
Don’t worry if you’re new to surfing! Surfing schools are available around the beach, allowing you to learn some skills—rental of boards is also included in the package.
If you want to chill on the beach, you’ll also love its golden sandy beach, perfect for those who just want to lie down and sunbathe beside the sea. Meanwhile, you can also enjoy its long stretch by walking in the afternoon.
Moreover, if you’ve got kids in tow, you’ll love that they can build sand castles while you lounge around.
Pro tip:
If you’re after safety and precaution, consider visiting Lahinch Beach during summer to ensure that lifeguards are watching over the entire area.
3. Play Golf at Doolin Pitch and Putt
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Website: https://doolinpitchandputt.com/
Address: Ballaghaline, Doolin, Co. Clare, V95 K330
Contact Details: +353 86 837 4289
Operating Hours: Open 24 Hours
Doolin Pitch and Putt is a great place if you want to enjoy outdoor activities with your friends in a more relaxed environment.
Both newbies and golf enthusiasts are welcome to enjoy the 18-hole par-3 course while being surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean, and the Aran Islands.
This golf course is extremely friendly for those without golf experience. Here, you’ll love that they have a simple layout, perfect if you don’t want to be intimidated right off the bat.
Meanwhile, golf lovers out there can enjoy a more competitive course in advanced areas with more natural terrain.
Pro tip:
Since it often drizzles around Doolin Pitch and Putt, consider bringing waterproof shoes as the course is a bit damp, especially if you’re planning to visit in the morning.
4. Drink a Pint of Guinness at McGann’s
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Website: http://www.mcgannspubdoolin.com/
Address: Main St, Teergonean, Doolin, Co. Clare
Contact Details: +353 65 707 4133
Operating Hours: Monday – Thursday: 12:00 PM – 11:30 PM; Friday: 12:00 PM – 12:30 AM; Saturday: 10:00 AM – 12:30 AM; Sunday: 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM
For those of you who are curious about Irish hospitality then you must visit McGann’s Pub. Here, you can enjoy comfort food, local booze, and live music, which seems like a perfect night out with your friends.
Upon entering the pub, you’ll immediately feel at ease because of its warm lights and interiors.
If you need to refuel, don’t forget to try their fish and chips, along with the crowd-favorite seafood chowder. Of course, while you’re in an Irish pub, you should also get a few pints of Guinness to make your visit complete!
Aside from the food and booze, this pub can also offer live traditional Irish music. Here, you can spot local musicians playing traditional instruments such as bodhráns and fiddles.
It’s best to take the front seat when you arrive a bit earlier, so you can also mingle with these artists in between their sets.
Pro tip:
Don’t miss out on McGann’s Pub’s brown bread. Consider asking for an extra slice, especially if you’re ordering a soup during your stay.
5. Ride a Horse at Mountain View Horse Riding Centre
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Website: http://www.mountainviewtrekking.com/
Address: Lisdoonvarna, Co. Clare
Contact Details: +353 87 634 5776
Operating Hours: Monday – Saturday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Another fun activity that you can do while you’re in Doolin is horseback riding at Mountain View Horse Riding Centre. Here, you can enjoy the view and breeze in the countryside while you ride the friendly horses onsite.
You’ll love that this riding center has both easy and moderate trails, perfect for riders of all levels. Whichever route you choose, you’ll be greeted by fields, trees, and rolling hills around the area.
And when it’s not too foggy, you can also spot mountains from afar!
When it comes to horseback riding, you’ll love that the trainers are patient enough to guide you to your first rodeo. Once they see that you’re comfortable with the ride, they will even ask if you want to try the more challenging trails.
Pro tip:
If it’s your first time trying horseback riding, make sure to wear breathable clothes. Avoid wearing tight clothes as that can get quite uncomfortable when you’re on the saddle.
6. Explore Doonagore Castle
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Website: http://www.visitdoolin.ie/
Address: Doonnagore, Co. Clare
Operating Hours: Open 24 Hours
A trip to Doolin won’t be complete without visiting one of Ireland’s historical landmarks, the Doonagore Castle. This castle is a 16th-century tower house overlooking the Atlantic Ocean.
From here, you can enjoy the countryside views, the Aran Islands, and the Burren landscape. While you’re here, you’ll instantly feel like you’re either transported to the medieval past or you’re probably on the set of Game of Thrones.
If you’re curious about the historical side of this castle, Doonagore has its fair share of a dark past. In 1588, a Spanish Armada ship sank near the coast.
While the crew made their way out of the shipwreck, the people inside the Doonagore Castle hung them to death instead. That also explains why there are ghost stories that are linked to this castle.
While the tower remains close to the public, the castle’s exterior is still a picture-perfect spot, perfect for first-time visitors in the area.
Pro tip:
The road to reach Doonagore Castle is quite tricky, so it’s best to leave your car in Doolin village. You can find a parking spot near the pier and just take a 20-minute walk to the castle.
7. Check Out Stalactites at the Doolin Cave
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Website: https://doolincave.ie/
Address: Craggycorradan West, Doolin, Co. Clare
Operating Hours: Monday – Sunday: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
If you want to see one of the biggest free-hanging stalactites that we have in this lifetime, then you should add Doolin Cave to your must-see spots when you’re in the city.
This cave is located close to Doolin village. In fact, you’ll see the Doonagore Castle on your way here.
Here, you’ll be able to see up close the 24-foot-long stalactite.
Meanwhile, this cave is part of a much larger system of limestones in the region of Burren. It’s actually a region that’s widely known for its unique landscapes, making your trip here more interesting.
This cave is perfect if you or even your kids want to take a deeper dive into science, including the earth’s natural formations. You’ll love that the tour guides will gladly share stories about the stalagmites and stalactites that have been existing in this cave.
Don’t worry if you didn’t prepare for this physically, the trek inside the cave is relatively short. You’ll spend most of the time hearing about the cave’s history and snapping some picture-worthy shorts inside.
Just be prepared for a short steep walk on your way to the cave entrance.
Pro tip:
The stones inside the cave are very slippery so make sure to wear a shoes or sandals with a good grip.
8. Listen to Traditional Music at Doolin Music House
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Website: https://www.doolinmusichouse.com/
Address: Craggycorradan West, Doolin, Co. Clare
Contact Details: +353 86 824 1085
Operating Hours: Wednesday – Thursday: 7:00 AM – 8:30 PM
If you want to have a more personalized experience when it comes to listening to traditional Irish music then you should visit the Doolin Music House. This live music venue is actually located in the home of Christy Barry, the musician.
From time to time, he opens up his home to offer one of the most authentic live Irish music experiences for residents and visitors. Here, you can get a chance to meet new and upcoming local artists that share their love for Irish instruments and music.
Aside from folk music, you can also hear ballads, and reels, completed by traditional instruments such as the flute, fiddle, or bodhrán.
For a more personalized approach, you’ll love that you can just sit anywhere, offering a more informal and intimate live music experience. They also serve wine and snacks while you enjoy the vibe.
And if you’re lucky, you can also share your talent and jam with the artists, especially if you’re familiar with the traditional Irish instruments that they’re playing.
Pro tip:
If you want a more relaxed schedule, consider visiting Doolin Music House in the middle of the week. The crowd during this time is relatively much smaller compared to the other days.
9. Indulge at Gus O’Connor’s Pub
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Website: http://gusoconnorsdoolin.com/
Address: Fisher St, Doonmacfelim, Doolin, Co. Clare, V95 FY67
Contact Details: +353 65 707 4168
Operating Hours: Monday – Friday: 10:00 AM – 12:00 AM; Saturday – Sunday: 9:30 AM – 12:00 AM
When you’re visiting Doolin, you shouldn’t miss out on trying their cuisine too! One of the best restaurants you can go to when you’re in the city is Gus O’Connor’s Pub.
This pub will immediately transport you to the old Irish pubs (doolin pubs), complete with traditional Irish tunes.
Once you’re inside, you’ll immediately feel the cozy and warm atmosphere. You’ll be welcomed with woody interiors and warm lights too.
When it comes to food, you’ll love that this pub serves all the comforting Irish dishes such as beef stew, sirloin steak, and seafood chowder.
Meanwhile, if you want to listen to soulful ballads, this pub is also home to traditional Irish music bands. The crowd here can get lively, so make sure that you’re ready to sing your heart out—even on stage!
Pro tip:
When you’re here at Gus O’Connor’s Pub, don’t forget to try one of the crowd-favorite dishes called the Guinness stew!