What to do in Kilrush & West Clare
Activities in and around Kilrush include safe swimming, golfing, walking, angling and dolphin watching.
Watersports
Cappa Pier is recognized with a European Blue Flag for safe swimming in protected, clean waters.
The safe sheltered sandy beach in Kilkee enables all kinds of watersports as it is protected by Duggerna Reef, which is a natural wonder itself with some large and small rock pools full of marine life. The waters around Kilkee are among the clearest in the Atlantic ocean. The Kilkee Diving And Watersports centre (diveireland.com) offers diving activities as well as deep sea angling, dolphin trips, sailing lessons and jet skiing. On offer are full organised dive tours, full rib and equipment hire. Surfing, Kayaking, Coasteering, Sailing courses for adults and kids are offered by nevsailwatersports.com
Dolphin Watching
Kilrush is the main access location for those who wish to view the large group of bottlenose dolphins that reside in the Shannon Estuary. This school of breeding dolphins is unique to Ireland and is the most accessible group of dolphins in Europe. Departing from Kilrush Creek Marina a two hour boat trip operates to a strict code of standards to protect and preserve the dolphin’s environment. There are 3 – 4 sailings daily during the peak season (April-October). Outside of these months trips are subject to demand. With a little luck you can observe the dolphins from the pier in Cappa! [more...]
Golfing
Kilrush golf club has earned the title “Probably the Friendliest Golf Club in Ireland” and is a most enjoyable and yet challenging course with many excellent holes. Each only 15 mins. away are the links courses in Kilkee and Doonbeg, both with challenging holes against the backdrop of the Atlantic ocean. More famous championship golf courses are just across the Shannon in Kerry's Ballybunnion, and in Lahinch, a short drive to the North and near the Cliffs of Moher. [more...]
Traditional Irish Music
West Clare is the heart of traditional Irish music and dance. Many pubs in Kilrush and the neighbouring villages feature live sessions on many evenings throughout the year, traditional music festivals take place in the area on nearly each weekend in the summer. [more...]
Angling
West Clare is a paradise for anglers! Whether angling in one of the many lakes and rivers or taking a sea angling trip from Kilrush or Carrigaholt - a most enjoyable and successful fishing adventure can nearly be guaranteed! 
Sightseeing
The Cliff scenery on Loop Head Peninsula is one of Ireland's greatest natural attractions. The Loop Head Drive will take you to numerous scenic outlooks as well as to cliff angling spots. A variety of rare birds, dolphins, whales and seals appear regularly on and around Loop Head. The famous Cliffs of Moher are only 45 mins away; a little bit further to the North is Doolin (where boats are leaving to the Aran Islands) and the unique limestone area of the Burren, a heaven for walkers, climbers and botanists. Also recommended is a stroll through the shopping streets of Ennis with its medieval atmosphere, as well as visiting Bunratty Castle & Folk Park which features many traditional buildings from the area. Medieval dinners are also arranged there throughout the year. [more...]