Discover Achill Island, Mayo, Ireland on the Wild Atlantic Way; Irish language lessons, land-sailing at Keel Beach, sea-salt tastings, cozy cafés, and Atlantic-coast charm.
In this third article in my County Mayo series, I'm going to tell you all about my experiences exploring Achill Island, along the Wild Atlantic Way, in Ireland. Maybe it will inspire you to explore for yourself! I invite you to take the opportunity to explore the island's unique landscapes, beautiful beaches, and rich cultural sites.
In partnership with Údarás na Gaeltachta, champions of Ireland's Gaeltacht culture and language.
🌉 Crossing the Bridge to Magic
If County Mayo is Ireland's wild heart, Achill Island is its rhythm, a steady pulse of wind, laughter, and salt spray. As Ireland's largest island and one of Ireland's most scenic destinations, Achill stands out for its dramatic landscapes and unique charm.
Cross the Michael Davitt Bridge, and you'll feel it instantly: mountains sliding into turquoise coves, sheep playing traffic warden, and that wonderful "you're on island time now" vibe.
This is Part 3 of my County Mayo adventure, following the ancient fields of Ballycastle on the Wild Atlantic Way (Part 1) and the windswept cliffs and beauty around Belmullet (Part 2). Achill was our grand finale, and it delivered.
Jump to:
Irish Breakfast and Language Lessons | Irish Words & Phrases | Land-Sailing Keel Beach | Achill Island Sea Salt Tour | Lunch at the Beehive Craft & Coffee Shop | Keem Beach | Deserted Village Hike | Achill Sheep | Achill Aquarium | Conservation | Artists | Where to Stay | Logistics & Planning | Reflections | FAQs | Conclusion | Continue the Journey | Pin for Later
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☘️ Where the Sea Speaks Irish
We met Toilach, our Irish teacher, at Pure Magic Achill Lodge after a delicious breakfast. It's part surf lodge, part café, part community hangout. Picture wetsuits by the door, surfboards as décor, coffee mingling with sea air.
My mini Irish breakfast at Pure Magic: fried egg, mushrooms, brown bread, blood sausage, beans, grilled tomato, sausage link, bacon, and tea strong enough to power a wind turbine.
Optimism on a plate. Love it.
Toilach, our teacher, greeted us with "Dia dhuit!" and explained that Irish isn't just spoken, it's sung. Between mugs of strong tea and the sound of waves, the language felt alive.
By the end, we were greeting each other like locals, with slightly mangled pronunciation and all.
☘️ A Cúpla Focal: A Few Irish Words to Try
One of the joys of visiting Achill Island is hearing Irish (Gaeilge) spoken in daily life. Don't worry if your pronunciation isn't perfect, locals appreciate any effort! Here are a few easy phrases to get you started:
| Irish Phrase | Pronunciation (approx.) | Meaning in English |
|---|---|---|
| Dia dhuit | dee-ah gwit | Hello |
| Dia is Muire dhuit | dee-ah iss mwir-ah gwit | Hello (reply — “God and Mary with you”) |
| Go raibh maith agat | guh rev mah ah-gut | Thank you |
| Slán | slawn | Goodbye |
| Fáilte | fall-cha | Welcome |
| Conas atá tú? | kun-us ah-taw too? | How are you? |
| Tá mé go maith | taw may guh mah | I’m good |
| Le do thoil | leh duh hull | Please |
| Sláinte! | slawn-cha | Cheers / To your health! |
| Craic agus ceol | crack ah-gus kyole | Fun and music, the Irish way of life! |
💬 Tip: When in Achill or any Gaeltacht area, start your morning with "Dia dhuit". It's a lovely way to connect with locals (and earn a friendly smile!).
🌬️ Riding the Wind: Land-Sailing at Keel Beach
Forget surfing, Achill, Ireland was meant for land-sailing. While surfing is popular here, Achill Island is also renowned for its water sports, including kite surfing, windsurfing, and kayaking, thanks to its strong winds and stunning coastline.
Keel Beach was our runway, and our instructors were none other than the first and second world champions from France. (No pressure.)
Amaury, the reigning champ, invited us to join him for more land-sailing near Mont Saint-Michel in France. Considering it's one of my favorite places on earth, my "yes" was instant.
When the wind caught my sail, whoosh!, I was flying across the sand, laughing out loud. Graceful? Hardly. Joyful? Completely.
☕ Coffee and an Achill Island Sea Salt Tour
After all that adrenaline, the Dooagh Shop revived us with coffee and local chatter.
Then we toured Achill Island Sea Salt, learning about the process that turns seawater into delicate, glistening flakes. A tiny pinch tasted of sunshine and salty air, and it completely brought out the flavor of the tomatoes we tried.
🐝 Lunch & Local Finds at The Beehive Craft & Coffee Shop
When the Atlantic wind leaves you chilled, The Beehive is the cure: salmon with salad, crisp cider, and banoffee pie that could start a fan club.
This is where I discovered my new favorite cider, Stonewell Craft Cider. If you can figure out how to get it in the U.S., please let me know! For now, I'm planning a trip to Ireland in my head, specifically to taste cider.
The Beehive Craft and Coffee shop overflows with handmade treasures; I left with a wool sheep in a red hat for my son, adorable proof of "support local." It now sits on his bookshelf but randomly moves around the house staring at you.
🌫️ Keem Beach: Mist, Magic & Moody Skies
Keem Bay greeted us in full Irish mood, low clouds, fine drizzle, turquoise water curling into white gold sand. This stunning beach is renowned for its pristine beauty and has been awarded Blue Flag status for its cleanliness and high environmental standards.
Yes, people were swimming. And laughing.
Somehow, the mist made it even better, softening the cliffs and turning the view into a watercolor, with spectacular views all around. I didn't even mind the umbrellas blowing inside out. Well, not too much!
🏚️ Walking Through History: The Deserted Village
If you're ready for a great hike to explore the ruins of a deserted village of stone cottages, this is the place for you!
High on Slievemore Mountain, rows of stone cottages whisper Ireland's story. Families once summered here ("booleying") during the summer months, moving between the network of villages on Achill Island as part of traditional seasonal patterns.
The Deserted Village, like several other villages on Achill, was abandoned during the Great Famine, which caused mass emigration and a dramatic population decline.
Wind tugs at your coat; imagination fills the gaps. It's moving, grounding, unforgettable. And you are sure to run into a few new Irish friends in the form of sheep!
🐑 The Sheep of Achill: Fluffy Locals with Free Range
You can't talk about Achill Island without mentioning the sheep. They're everywhere, and honestly, they might be the island's most confident residents. You'll spot them lounging in the middle of roads, posing on cliff edges, and occasionally giving drivers the kind of unimpressed side-eye only an Achill sheep can pull off.
I especially loved watching them wander through the Deserted Village on Slievemore, nibbling grass between the old stone cottages as if they'd inherited the place (which, in a way, they have). There's something oddly peaceful about it, fluffy white shapes moving through centuries of history, perfectly at home among the ruins and wind.
🐠 A Peek Beneath the Waves: Achill Aquarium
At the Achill Experience Aquarium, colorful wrasse and crabs share tank space with stories of the Atlantic. We learned about gentle basking sharks that cruise offshore each summer, thrilling and humbling.
Traditional fishing and boat trips around Achill Island are also highlighted, offering visitors a chance to experience the island's maritime heritage and observe marine life up close. The Atlantic's choppy waters can make marine exploration both exciting and challenging, shaping the lives of local fishers and the wildlife found here.
It's family-friendly but fascinating for grown-ups too. (My son would've stayed here all day asking questions about the shark eggs.)
🌱 Guardians of the Island: Conservation and Wild Beauty
Achill Island is more than just a destination; it's a living testament to the wild Atlantic's untamed spirit. Perched off the west coast of County Mayo, this island is a sanctuary where nature reigns supreme. Here, the spectacular coastal scenery is shaped by the relentless embrace of the Atlantic Ocean, with the highest sea cliffs in Ireland (and the third highest in Europe) plunging dramatically into the churning sea below.
Stand at the edge of these cliffs and you'll feel the raw power of the wild Atlantic, the wind carrying whispers of ancient stories and the promise of adventure.
Artists Inspired by Achill
This rugged landscape, carved by centuries of wind and rain, has long captivated artists and dreamers. American painter Robert Henri found inspiration in Achill's ever-changing light and brooding mountains, while writers like Heinrich Böll were drawn to the island's solitude and elemental beauty. Their works echo the sense of awe that comes from witnessing Achill's cliffs, beaches, and moorlands, the places where the land meets the sea in a spectacular dance.
But Achill's wildness is also its greatest treasure, and locals are passionate guardians of this unique environment. Conservation efforts help protect the delicate balance between human life and the natural world, ensuring that the island's rare flora, windswept bogs, and dramatic coastline remain unspoiled for generations to come.
Whether you're hiking along the coast, gazing out over the Atlantic from a windswept headland, or simply breathing in the salt air, you become part of Achill's ongoing story. It's a tale of resilience, beauty, and the enduring power of nature on Ireland's western edge.
🏡 Evening Magic: Glamping & Dinner at Pure Magic
As evening fell, we peeked at Nanny Goose's Glamping Pods, storybook huts overlooking the sea, which are a unique accommodation option and a good spot for an overnight stay on Achill Island.
We then stayed at Keel Cottages, another excellent accommodation choice and also a good spot for visitors seeking a memorable place to stay. The entire area has breathtaking views!
Dinner back at Pure Magic wrapped the day perfectly: hearty food, music, laughter, and that sense of belonging that only an island can brew.
🗺️ Planning Your Own Achill Adventure
Getting There: Drive via the Michael Davitt Bridge from Westport, Newport, or Mulranny; or take Bus Éireann Route 450. Cyclists love the Great Western Greenway, which offers scenic views of Clew Bay.
Top Sights: Keem Bay, Deserted Village, Kildownet Castle, Achill Sea Salt, Achill Aquarium, Atlantic Drive, Croaghaun Cliffs (among the highest sea cliffs in Europe), Clew Bay. Explore Achill's dramatic coastline, and don't miss the views from the north and south of the island.
Outdoor Fun: Surf, hike, land-sail, cycle, fish, or just beach-wander. Explore Achill by foot, hike to the highest mountain, Slievemore, or trek along Achill's scenic trails.
Eat: The Beehive Crafts & Coffee Shop, Pure Magic Achill, Ted's Pub. Search for Achill's best local pubs and eateries.
Stay: Keel Cottages, Nanny Goose's Glamping Pods, local B&Bs, etc.
When to Visit: May-September = longer days & open cafés.
Pack: Layers, waterproofs, and a flexible attitude about your hair. 💁♀️
💚 Reflections: Lessons from Land, Sea & Language
Achill taught me travel isn't about checklists; it's about rhythm; the crash of waves, the laughter in cafés, and a few Irish words sung into the wind.
From learning "Dia dhuit" to tasting the Atlantic in a pinch of salt, every moment told a story.
If the sea truly has a language, Achill Island is where you learn to listen.
☘️ FAQs: Everything You've Wanted to Know About Achill Island
Why is Achill Island famous?
Achill Island is famous for its dramatic coastal scenery, windswept beaches, and vibrant Irish culture. It's Ireland's largest island, known for landmarks like Keem Bay, the Deserted Village at Slievemore, and the adventurous spirit of the Wild Atlantic Way. It's also become a favorite for artists, surfers, and storytellers chasing a wilder side of Ireland.
What film was made on Achill Island?
The award-winning movie "The Banshees of Inisherin" (2022) was filmed largely on Achill Island, showcasing its cliffs, coves, and classic stone cottages. Keem Bay, in particular, starred as one of the film's most stunning backdrops.
Is it worth going to Achill Island?
Absolutely! Achill is one of those "pinch-me" destinations that still feels untouched. Whether you're after hiking trails, beach walks, Irish language culture, or just the sound of the Atlantic outside your window, it's 100 percent worth the trip.
Is there anything to do on Achill Island?
So much! You can land-sail on Keel Beach, hike Slievemore Mountain, visit the Achill Experience Aquarium, taste Achill Island Sea Salt, cycle part of the Great Western Greenway, or simply enjoy tea and banoffee pie at The Beehive Café. There's an adventure (or cozy café) for every kind of traveler.
How do you get to Achill Island?
Achill is linked to mainland County Mayo by the Michael Davitt Bridge, so you can drive there easily from Westport or Mulranny. Public buses also connect the island via Bus Éireann Route 450, and the Great Western Greenway offers a scenic cycling route if you're feeling active.
What was filmed on Achill Island?
Besides The Banshees of Inisherin, Achill's cinematic landscapes have appeared in documentaries, travel films, and Irish productions that highlight its rugged cliffs and Atlantic charm.
What is the closest town to Achill Island?
The nearest major town is Westport, about an hour's drive away, a great base for exploring the Wild Atlantic Way before crossing the bridge to Achill.
Do they speak Irish on Achill Island?
Yes! Achill is part of the Gaeltacht, where Irish (Gaeilge) is still spoken daily alongside English. You'll hear it in greetings, songs, and place names, and locals love it when visitors try a few words like "Dia dhuit" (hello) or "Go raibh maith agat" (thank you).
How long is Keel Beach, Achill?
Keel Beach (Trawmore Strand) stretches roughly 3 kilometers (about 1.8 miles), perfect for long walks, picnics, or a blustery Atlantic stroll with the waves rolling in beside you.
Is Keem Beach worth visiting?
Without question, Keem Bay is often called one of the most beautiful beaches in Ireland. Nestled between green cliffs with turquoise water below, it's a photographer's dream and a peaceful escape even on misty days.
Can you swim in Keel Beach?
Yes! Keel Beach is popular for swimming, surfing, and bodyboarding. Lifeguards are usually on duty in summer, but the Atlantic can be chilly, so brace yourself for that "I'm awake now!" shock.
What is the best beach in Achill?
Tough choice! Most locals would name Keem Bay for its scenery, while Keel Beach wins for convenience and surf. Smaller gems like Silver Strand and Dooega Bay are perfect if you prefer quiet coves. Honestly, the best beach is the one you're standing on when the sun peeks through the mist.
🌄 Why Achill Island Captures the Heart of the Wild Atlantic Way
If you want to experience spectacular coastal scenery and the untamed beauty of Ireland's west coast, look no further than Achill Island. From Achill Sound, the gateway village, the island unfolds like a storybook of contrasts. You have the rugged mountains, sweeping sea cliffs, and hidden coves shaped by centuries of Atlantic winds.
Follow the Atlantic Drive, a loop of breathtaking views that hugs the coastline past Blacksod Bay and around Achill Head, where the highest sea cliffs in Ireland rise dramatically above the roaring Atlantic Ocean. It's wild, windswept, and absolutely unforgettable.
History lovers can wander among megalithic tombs, ancient ruins, and the present church that still anchors community life, while adventurers can hike the majestic mountains that frame Keel Beach, one of the island's most iconic stretches of sand. The combination of cliffs, culture, and sea air makes Achill feel like the true heart of the Wild Atlantic.
Add in a night of traditional music in a local pub, and you'll quickly understand why Achill tourism continues to thrive. It's not just a destination, it's a feeling. Whether you're exploring the remote corners of the Irish Isles or simply soaking up the sunset over the Atlantic, Achill offers that perfect blend of history, nature, and warm island hospitality.
🔗 Continue the Journey
Ready for more Wild Atlantic Way inspiration?
➡️ Part 1 - Wild Atlantic Mayo: From Ancient Fields to Sea Cliffs
➡️ Part 2 - Tides, Lighthouses & Islands Lost to Time: Belmullet & the Erris Peninsula
Pack curiosity, a raincoat, and maybe a slice of banoffee pie for the road, Achill's waiting.
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