Roonagh Pier sits at the edge of Clew Bay, marking the westernmost embarkation point on the Wild Atlantic Way in County Mayo. More than just a functional transport hub, this stone-built structure offers uninterrupted panoramic views across the Atlantic. On clear days, the silhouette of Croagh Patrick dominates the eastern horizon, while the jagged cliffs of Achill Island, the peaks of Mweelrea, and the wild coastline of north Connemara stretch out to the west. As a designated Wild Atlantic Way Discovery Point, the pier serves as both a scenic viewpoint and the primary gateway to two of Mayo’s most distinctive islands: Clare Island and Inishturk.
Ferry Services to the Islands
The modern pier accommodates daily passenger ferries, with schedules expanding significantly during the summer months. Crossings are weather-dependent, so checking conditions before you travel is essential, particularly from October to March.
To improve safety and accessibility at this critical gateway, the government allocated €157,300 in funding to Mayo County Council in late 2025 to appoint consultant engineers to prepare a preliminary business case and Strategic Assessment for marine infrastructure upgrades. In late 2025, a section of the pier was temporarily closed for investigation and precautionary maintenance. As of May 2026, additional funding was approved by the government for Mayo County Council to continue emergency works and safeguard the pier’s structural integrity.
Clare Island The crossing to Clare Island takes approximately 15 to 20 minutes. Two operators serve this route: O’Malley Ferries and Clare Island Ferry. In summer, you can expect up to four or five sailings daily, making it straightforward to plan a day trip. Winter service typically reduces to two sailings per day – one in the morning and one in the evening. The island is renowned for its Blue Flag beach, coastal walking trails, and historic sites including a 15th-century Carmelite abbey and the elevated ruins of Granuaile Castle.
Inishturk Reaching Inishturk involves a longer, more atmospheric 50-minute voyage across open water. The route offers excellent opportunities for spotting seabirds, including razorbills, gannets, and summer puffins. While summer months see two to three daily sailings, winter service is usually limited to one or two. Visitors should note that ferry schedules can be tight in colder months; on some days, catching the return crossing requires an overnight stay on the island. Accommodation is limited to a few guesthouses and self-catering cottages, so booking in advance is strongly recommended.
Tickets for both routes are purchased from the port-a-cabin located in the car park prior to boarding. For the most accurate timetables, check the operators’ websites or visit the Discover Ireland Centre in Westport.
Maritime History & The Pirate Queen
The area’s connection to the sea stretches back centuries. The original stone quay at Roonagh is tidal and dates to the early 20th century, though the sheltered inlet was a vital hub long before that. In the 16th century, the waters around Roonagh Point were used by the fleet of Gráinne Ní Mháille, known in English as Grace O’Malley. Often called the “Pirate Queen” of Connacht, she commanded a formidable maritime network across Mayo and Galway, using this sheltered bay to launch vessels, supply her crews, and defend her territorial waters.
Today, you can still see the original tidal pier from the car park. While it no longer handles passenger traffic, it remains in use by local fishing craft and small boats, preserving a tangible link to the area’s working maritime past. The newer concrete-and-stone pier was constructed alongside it to safely accommodate modern ferry vessels and improve passenger access.
What to See & Do
Even if you aren’t catching a ferry, Roonagh Pier is worth a stop. A short walk along the promenade provides sweeping coastal vistas that change dramatically with the light and weather. The exposed Atlantic location makes it a reliable spot for birdwatching, particularly during migration seasons. Look out for kittiwakes circling the cliffs, cormorants diving in the bay, and the occasional puffin heading out to sea in spring and early summer.
The contrast between the old tidal quay and the modern ferry terminal makes for compelling photography. The stone arches of the original pier, visible at low tide, frame the water beautifully, while the modern structure offers a clean, level vantage point for capturing the surrounding mountain ranges and islands.
Practical Information
Getting There From Westport, take the R335 (Louisburgh Road) for approximately 21 km to the town of Louisburgh. Continue straight through the town, cross the bridge, and after about 0.4 km, turn right at the signpost for Roonagh Pier. The final stretch is a narrow, winding road that can be busy during peak summer ferry times, so allow extra travel time. A large car and coach park sits directly opposite the modern pier. Parking is free.
Facilities & Accessibility The modern pier is level and wheelchair-friendly, featuring tactile paving along the promenade for safe navigation. The older tidal pier has an uneven surface and is best avoided for those with mobility restrictions. There are no public toilets or permanent food outlets on the pier itself. Benches, litter bins, and a small information kiosk are available in the car park. For refreshments, the nearby village of Louisburgh offers several cafés, pubs, and shops within a short drive.
Contact & Information For general inquiries about the pier or local ferry services, you can contact the Louisburgh tourism office at +353 (0)98 25711. Always verify ferry schedules before travelling, as tides and Atlantic weather conditions can cause last-minute cancellations or delays.
Planning Your Visit
Summer (June to August) brings the longest daylight hours, the most frequent ferry sailings, and the best conditions for island exploration. If you prefer a quieter experience, late spring or early autumn offers dramatic coastal light and fewer crowds, though ferry frequencies will be reduced. Pair your stop at Roonagh Pier with a visit to the nearby Achill Island or a walk along the Clew Bay Bike Trail for a full day of Mayo’s coastal highlights. Always check the Met Éireann forecast and ferry operator updates before heading out, as the Atlantic weather around Roonagh Point can shift quickly. Arrive at the port-a-cabin at least 30 minutes before your scheduled departure to secure your ticket and allow time for boarding.