Maharees Islands

Overview

The Maharees Islands (Irish: Oileáin na Mhacaire), popularly known as the Seven Hogs, are a cluster of seven uninhabited islands that lie at the northern tip of the Maharees Peninsula in County Kerry. The islands sit in the Maharees Sound, a narrow channel that separates them from the mainland at Scraggane Pier. Though no permanent residents remain, the islands are alive with summer grazing, historic ruins, and a thriving wildlife community that makes them a magnet for divers, snorkellers, birdwatchers and cultural enthusiasts.

History & Background

Human activity on the islands stretches back to early Christian times. The largest island, Illauntannig (Oileán tSeannaig), hosts the remains of a monastic settlement founded by St Senach. While some sources date the foundation to the 5th century, local tradition places it in the 7th century. Archaeologists have identified two small oratories, three beehive huts (clochán), a souterrain, three stone altars (leachtaí) and a Celtic cross, all enclosed within a cashel wall. The site is designated a National Monument, though access is restricted to protect its fragile fabric.

The islands were inhabited until the early 1980s, when traditional farming practices gave way to seasonal grazing. Farmers once swam cattle and sheep across the sound at low tide, rowing alongside them in currachs. Today a modified flotation cage is used, reducing stress on the animals. A modest farmhouse on Illauntannig is available for weekly rental from April to September, offering a rare opportunity to stay on a remote Irish island.

Cultural Highlights

• Chi Rho Cross at Kilshannig – At the tip of the Maharees peninsula stands the historic Kilshannig graveyard, home to a 7th‑century Chi Rho cross. It is a tangible reminder of the early Christian presence that also gave rise to the monastic enclosure on Illauntannig.
• Early‑Christian Ruins – The stone cross, beehive huts and souterrain on Illauntannig provide a vivid glimpse into monastic life on the islands, complementing the later agricultural use of the land.

Nature & Wildlife

The Maharees archipelago forms part of an 11,000‑hectare Special Area of Conservation. Its sand‑dune system supports the rare Natterjack toad, which breeds in the dunes and in nearby Lough Gill. The area also hosts wintering Whooper and Bewick’s mute swans, as well as a host of waders such as Brent Goose, Shelduck, Wigeon, Teal, Oystercatcher, Ringed Plover and Curlew.

Designated an Important Bird Area (IBA) by BirdLife International, the islands support breeding colonies of gulls, terns and several seabirds. Notably, Oileán tSeannaig is the last known nesting site for the Little Tern in Kerry, one of only a few colonies in Ireland. From mid‑May to mid‑July visitors are asked to avoid the rocky and shingle beaches on this island to protect the vulnerable chicks.

Seasonal Highlights & Wildlife Calendar

Water Sports & Activities

Diving and Snorkelling

The Maharees Islands are celebrated as one of Ireland’s premier diving and snorkelling locations. Clear Atlantic waters reveal a mosaic of kelp forests, rocky reefs and abundant marine life, including wrasse, pollack and occasional dolphin pods. Waterworld Dive Centre, a family‑run business operating since 1963, offers daily boat dives, PADI courses (from beginner to instructor) and is Ireland’s first National Geographic Dive Centre. The centre is also a PADI 5‑Star Gold Palm Instructor Development Centre and has won multiple industry awards.

Surfing, Paddle‑boarding & Sea‑Safaris

The surrounding Maharees Peninsula is a popular surf spot, with several surf schools operating out of Castlegregory. In addition, local operators run Sea‑Safari tours from Sandy Bay that circle the Seven Hogs, Brandon Bay and Tralee Bay, giving passengers a chance to spot seals, dolphins and the island’s seabird colonies from the water.

Family‑Friendly Water Fun

• Bubblemaker – a shallow‑water introduction to scuba for children, run from Waterworld’s indoor pool.
• Water trampoline and slides – part of the Splash Sports water‑park, ideal for kids and teens.

Walking & Cycling

The Dingle Way long‑distance walking trail passes directly in front of Harbour House on the Maharees, making the islands an ideal side‑trip for walkers. The peninsula’s sand dunes and coastal paths also provide excellent cycling routes. Nearby surf‑school and bike‑hire operators make it easy to explore the area on two wheels.

Exploring the Monastic Ruins

A short boat ride brings you to Illauntannig’s monastic enclosure. While the interior is not open to the public, the exterior walls, stone cross and beehive huts can be admired from the landing beach. The stark landscape, with the Slieve Mish Mountains and Brandon in the distance, provides a dramatic backdrop for photography.

Boat Trips and Access

Boat excursions to the islands are organised through the Castlegregory Information Centre. Trips typically depart from Scraggane Pier, the nearest mainland landing point. Operators provide safety briefings and ensure that visitors keep a respectful distance from nesting birds. The centre can be contacted at 066 713 9422 or via email castleinfocenter@gmail.com (both confirmed as current contact details).

Summer Grazing and Landscape

During the summer months, the islands serve as grazing grounds for local livestock. The sight of sheep and cattle dotting the low‑lying grass adds a pastoral charm to the rugged coastline. The islands’ tombolo formation creates a striking visual contrast between sand, sea and sky.

Accommodation & Facilities

• Harbour House & Leisure Centre (Scraggane Pier Road, Castlegregory) – a family‑run guest house with 16 en‑suite rooms, indoor heated swimming pool, gym, sauna, on‑site seafood restaurant, and a range of wellness classes (pilates, aqua‑aerobics, beauty therapy). The property sits at the head of the Maharees, offering panoramic views of the islands and direct access to the Dingle Way.
• Illauntannig farmhouse – available for weekly rental (April‑September) for those seeking an authentic island stay. Book directly with the local farmer or through the Castlegregory tourist office.
• Camping & caravan sites – the peninsula hosts several well‑maintained parks, notably Anchor Caravan Park and Green Acres Caravan Park, both offering dog‑friendly pitches, electric hook‑ups and easy beach access.

Practical Information

• Getting there: Drive to Castlegregory (approximately 28 km north of Tralee via the N86 and R560). From the village, follow signs to Scraggane Pier. Parking is available at the pier, but space is limited during peak summer weeks.
• Boat departures: Contact the Castlegregory Information Centre (phone 066 713 9422, email castleinfocenter@gmail.com) to arrange a private or group trip. No fixed timetable exists; departures are weather‑dependent and usually run from late May to early September.
• Admission: There is no entry fee; the islands are free to visit, though boat operators may charge a modest fee for transport and guide services.
• Facilities: The islands have no built facilities, toilets or shelters. Visitors should bring water, food and appropriate safety gear. The nearest amenities are in Castlegregory village.
• Accessibility: Access is by boat only; the landing beaches are uneven and not suitable for wheelchairs or mobility‑impaired visitors.
• Conservation rules: Stay on designated landing areas, keep a safe distance from nesting birds (especially Little Tern), and do not disturb wildlife. Dogs must be kept on a lead and are discouraged during the breeding season.
• Best time to visit: Diving season runs from May to September, bird‑watching peaks in winter (December‑February) for migratory species and in late spring for the Little Tern colony. The Natterjack toad is most active in late spring and early summer when the dunes are warm and dry.

Quick Reference Table

The Maharees Islands offer a rare blend of natural beauty, underwater adventure and early‑Christian heritage. Whether you are a diver chasing colourful reef fish, a birdwatcher hoping to glimpse a nesting Little Tern, or a history buff tracing the footsteps of early monks, the islands reward curiosity with untouched scenery and a sense of timelessness that few other Irish destinations can match.