Surfing at Lahinch Beach
Surfing is a core element of the town’s culture, so you’ll want to take to the waves for an exhilarating view of the County Clare coastline. The surf at Liscannor Bay is beginner-friendly, and you’ll find several surf schools ready to equip you and get you paddling. You can reward yourself with a hearty meal at one of the local pubs once you’ve dried off.
Cliffs of Moher
One of the best-known views in Ireland, the Cliffs of Moher are just six miles from Lahinch, and the paved pathways tracing the clifftop route allow you to take in the stunning views over the Aran Islands. More than 35 bird species, including peregrines, puffins, and guillemots, call the steep cliffs home, and you might spot dolphins and whales out at sea. You can rent picnic blankets and binoculars at the visitor center.
Bunratty Castle and Folk Park
The Bunratty Castle and Folk Park is just over 35 miles southeast of Lahinch. Its site was a Viking trading center in the 10th century. The castle, the fourth built at the site, dates from 1425 and is extremely well-preserved. The Folk Park is a living recreation of a 19th-century Irish village, with dozens of traditional buildings, including farmhouses, a school, and a grocery populated by local characters who explain their history. The interactive Fairy Trail that leads through the woodlands enchants visitors of all ages.