Best of Achill Island

Achill Island Essentials

Achill Island features some of Ireland’s most distinct coastal landscapes and historical landmarks. This collection includes the Blue Flag beaches of Keem and Keel, known for surfing and clear waters, alongside the dramatic glacial scenery of Lough Acorrymore. Historical sites range from Neolithic megalithic tombs and the abandoned stone cottages of the Slievemore Deserted Village to 19th-century Napoleonic signal towers. For indoor discovery, the Achill Experience provides insights into local marine life and the island's unique heritage.

Achill Island Essentials — Map

LuciaRuane / CC BY-SA 4.0

A

Keem Beach

Keem Bay is located past Dooagh village in the west of Achill Island in County Mayo, Ireland. It contains a Blue Flag beach.

B

Keel Beach

A 3.5-kilometer sandy beach used for surfing, kiteboarding, and swimming. It is flanked by the Minaun Cliffs and offers views of the Bill’s Rocks.

C

Deserted Village

A collection of nearly 100 ruined stone cottages on the slopes of Slievemore mountain. These dwellings were used as seasonal booley homes before being abandoned during the Great Famine.

D

Lough Acorrymore

A glacial corrie lake set within a deep amphitheater of cliffs. It serves as the island's reservoir and is a starting point for hikes toward the Croaghaun sea cliffs.

E

Achill Experience

An aquarium and visitor center showcasing local marine life, including lobsters and rays. Exhibits also detail the island's railway history and traditional folklore.

F

Heinrich-Böll-Cottage

Heinrich Theodor Böll was a German writer. Considered one of Germany's foremost post-World War II writers, Böll is a recipient of the Georg…

G

Dooagh Strand

A beach known for its shifting sands, which famously reappeared in 2017 after being washed away for over 30 years. It is located near Dooagh village.

H

Barnynagappul Strand

Also known as the Golden Strand, this north-facing beach overlooks Blacksod Bay. It is characterized by its fine sand and views of the Mullet Peninsula.

I

Megalithic Tomb

A Neolithic court tomb situated at the base of Slievemore. The site features a central gallery and large upright stone slabs dating back over 4,000 years.

J

Achill Island Signal Tower

A 19th-century stone lookout post built during the Napoleonic Wars to guard against French invasion. It occupies a high vantage point overlooking the Atlantic coast.