Nature spot · County Mayo

Inishkea Islands ferry

Island
Inishkea Islands ferry
Photo: Fáilte Ireland

The Inishkea Islands, Oileáin Inis Cé, are located off the coast off Belmullet, County Mayo. Rich in history, the Islands are believed to be named after Saint Kea who lived on one of the islands.

Two islands make up Inishkea Islands, Inishkea South and Inishkea North, with Inishkea North the larger of the two. Visitors can take a guided walking tour with an island descendent or choose to explore the islands by themselves. See the remains of stone cottages from the 1800s including the king’s house, shebeen, schools, church, and a two storey shop.

The islands are home to a number of significant historical sites such as The Alt Mór navigation tower, The Bailey Mór, an early Christian monastery, St Colmcille's Church and the old Norwegian whaling station. Walking maps with information on these sites are provided.

The coves and beaches across The islands are breeding ground and home to a large colony of grey seals. The islands have a number of bird species, including barnacle geese. Lapwing breed on The islands and peregrine falcons hunt for prey. There is also evidence of rabbits living there.

Flora is abundant on both islands with over 200 plant species including wildflowers such as northern marsh orchid, white clover and tufted vetches. On Inishkea South, devil’s bit scabiuos and sheep’s bit grow plentiful, while Inishkea North is home to the rare petalwort petalophyllum ralfsii. Inishkea Islands are surrounded by crystal clear waters, magnificent views and beautiful white sandy beaches waiting to be discovered. Inishkea Islands are just a 35 minute crossing from the mainland via chartered boat. An island paradise awaits all who visit.

Outdoors in County Mayo this week

Best day outdoors: Sun, 11 Oct — dry by day, breezy, up to 14°C

Status Yellow - Rain warning for Galway, Leitrim, Mayo, Sligo

From Thu, 8 Oct, 09:00 until Fri, 9 Oct, 04:00

Heavy spells of rain. 

Be aware of potential impacts:

  • Difficult travelling conditions
  • Localised flooding possible

Issued by Met Éireann · met.ie/warnings

  1. Fri, 9 Oct12° / 8°Medium rain showersWeather warning in force
  2. Sat, 10 Oct12° / 7°Sun with light cloudGreat day outdoors
  3. Sun, 11 Oct14° / 13°Sun with light cloudGreat day outdoors

Make a day of it

The nearest trails, beaches, woods and heritage within 25 km.