Overview
Perched 305 metres (about 1,000 ft) above the wild Atlantic, the Kerry Cliffs dominate the south‑Kerry coastline near the fishing village of Portmagee. From the main viewing platform you can see the iconic Skellig Islands, Little Skellig and Puffin Island stretching across the horizon. The cliffs sit on the Skellig Ring, making them an ideal stop on any Wild Atlantic Way itinerary.
The site is privately owned by the O’Donoghue family, who manage the visitor facilities and look after the resident alpacas, donkeys and horses. Their stewardship helps preserve the natural environment while providing a welcoming, family‑friendly experience.
History & Geology
The cliffs are composed of Old Red Sandstone laid down around 400 million years ago when Ireland lay beneath a tropical desert sea. Successive layers of Devonian sandstone and siltstone have been sculpted by millennia of wave action, creating striking sedimentary bands, natural sea caves and wave‑cut platforms. Iron‑oxide staining gives the rock its subtle red‑purple hue, most vivid in the early morning light. The site is the closest mainland viewpoint to the UNESCO‑listed Skellig Rocks, and the surrounding landscape bears the imprint of ancient coastal processes.
What to See & Do
Main Viewing Platform
The primary platform offers a panoramic vista of the Skellig Islands, with the rugged cliff face framing the scene. Photographers favour the two hours before sunset for the golden‑hour glow that illuminates the islands and accentuates the red sandstone.
Northern Trail
A shorter, more adventurous trail leads to a northern viewpoint where the Atlantic surge creates dramatic spray against the cliff base. This spot is the best place to watch dolphins and, on occasion, whales breaching in the distance.
Beehive Huts
Just before the main platform three replica beehive huts stand as a nod to early monastic cells. Built from dry stone, they echo structures used from the 2nd century BC for habitation and later by monks between 500‑1000 CE.
Wildlife & Birdwatching
- Seabirds: puffins, gannets, fulmars, storm petrels and Manx shearwaters.
- Marine life: regular dolphin sightings; occasional whale sightings from the northern outlook.
- Resident animals: alpacas, donkeys and horses mingle with visitors – a hit with families.
On‑Site Amenities
- Café: a glass‑fronted café serves coffee, tea and light meals with views over the Atlantic.
- Fast‑food kiosk: open daily, offering sandwiches, hot drinks and snacks.
- Camping: designated pitches for tents and campervans, with water points and toilet facilities.
- Picnic areas: shaded tables and benches ideal for a family lunch.
Photography Tips
Bring a wide‑angle lens to capture the sweeping cliff panorama and a telephoto for bird and marine life. Early winter mornings (around 08:30‑09:30) often give a soft golden light that enhances the red sandstone. Drones are allowed but you must seek permission from the site manager, respect nesting birds and be prepared for strong Atlantic gusts.
Practical Information
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Opening hours | Mon‑Sun 9:30‑18:30 (last entry 18:00). Winter hours are reduced, typically 10:00‑16:30, and may change with weather conditions. |
| Admission fee | €5 per adult (prices may vary to €6). Tickets sold at a staffed booth in the car park; card payments accepted. |
| Parking | Large on‑site car park accommodates cars, campervans and buses. Designated overnight camper spaces are available. |
| Getting there | From Killarney: N72 → Killorglin, R563 → Cahersiveen, R565 → Portmagee (≈1 h 15 min). From Cahersiveen: R565 directly (≈20 min). The site is sign‑posted with a brown “Kerry Cliffs Viewing Point” sign just beyond the village. |
| Public transport | Limited Local Link Kerry bus service from Cahersiveen to Portmagee; private tours from Killarney include a stop at the cliffs. |
| Accessibility | The path from the car park to the viewpoints is wide, well‑maintained gravel and suitable for strollers and wheelchairs. The final ascent to the main platform is steep and may require assistance. |
| Facilities | Restrooms open all day, café, fast‑food kiosk, water for campers, picnic tables, and animal‑interaction area. |
Visitor Tips
- Arrive before 10:00 am or after 16:00 pm during the June‑August peak season to avoid crowds and capture the best light.
- The northern viewpoint is most dramatic at high tide when wave spray creates a curtain against the rock.
- Bring binoculars for puffin and gannet colonies; early spring is the peak puffin season.
- The walk from the car park to both viewpoints is about 2 km round‑trip and takes roughly 30‑45 minutes at a relaxed pace.
- Families will enjoy the resident alpacas, donkeys and horses, as well as the easy‑access picnic spots.
Nearby Attractions & Activities
- Portmagee Village: colourful harbour, traditional music sessions at the Bridge Bar, and fresh seafood at local pubs.
- Skellig Experience Centre (Valentia Island): interactive exhibits on the Skellig Islands’ monastic history and geology.
- Tetrapod Trackway (Valentia Island): fossilised footprints of early vertebrates dating back 385 million years.
- Geokaun Mountain & Fogher Cliffs: alternative coastal walks with sweeping views of the Skellig Ring.
- Coomanaspig Pass: a short drive away, this high‑point offers panoramic Wild Atlantic Way views and is a popular photo stop.
- Kerry Head stone forts: the remains of two ancient defensive forts sit on the nearby headland, providing a glimpse into early coastal protection.
- Cahergall & Leacanabuaile Ringforts: 9th‑century stone forts offering insight into early Irish settlement patterns.
- Kerry Dark Sky Reserve: designated Gold Tier stargazing area; on clear nights the Milky Way is visible from the cliffs.
Accommodation & Planning
Portmagee provides a range of B&Bs, guesthouses and the iconic Moorings, famous for hosting the Star Wars crew during the Skellig Michael filming. For a more immersive experience, the on‑site camping area lets you stay overnight under the stars, with basic amenities and a fast‑food service. Summer accommodation fills quickly, so book at least three months in advance if you plan to combine the cliffs with a Skellig Michael boat tour.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are the Kerry Cliffs worth visiting? Absolutely. The combination of dramatic geology, unrivalled Skellig views and relatively low visitor numbers makes them a standout coastal attraction.
How long should I spend at the cliffs? Most visitors allocate 1–2 hours for the main platforms. Photographers and wildlife enthusiasts often linger longer, especially during sunrise or sunset.
When is the best time to visit? Early morning (before 10:00) and late afternoon (after 16:00) provide optimal lighting and fewer crowds. May through September generally offers the most stable weather.
Can I see Skellig Michael from the cliffs? Yes—on clear days the islands are clearly visible from both the main and northern viewpoints.
Is there wheelchair access? The primary platform is wheelchair‑accessible with assistance, though the final approach is steep and may require a helper.
What facilities are available for families? Picnic areas, on‑site camping, a fast‑food kiosk, a glass‑fronted café, resident alpacas/donkeys/horses and easy‑access paths make the site enjoyable for children and adults alike.