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Béal an Mhuirthead (Belmullet)
Inishkea Islands ferry
Inishkea Islands ferry
The Inishkea Island ferry boat at the pier
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Béal an Mhuirthead, Co. Mayo
  • Autumn
  • Coastal escapes
  • Islands
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Family friendly
Dog friendly
Free car parking
Sunny days
The Inishkea Island ferry boat at the pier
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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.

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Inishkea Islands, Co. Mayo, Ireland
Visit duration

We recommend planning to spend 4 to 5 hours here.

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More to discover at Inishkea Islands ferry
Ruins on the South island of Inishkea, Co Mayo
Inishkea Islands
IslandsInishkea Islands

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

Lighthouse at Blacksod Harbour in County Mayo.
An Fód Dubh (Blacksod Harbour)
Coastal escapesAn Fód Dubh (Blacksod Harbour)

Blacksod Harbour (An Fód Dubh) is a working harbour used as an embarkation point for ferries going to the island of Inishkea South.

Two boats close to the shore
Belmullet Boat Charters (Inishkea Island Tours & Sea Safaris)
Coastal escapesBelmullet Boat Charters (Inishkea Island Tours & Sea Safaris)

Belmullet Boat Charters (Inishkea Island Tours & Sea Safaris) is a family run business based in Belmullet, County Mayo. They operate a ferry to Inishkea Island along with various boat trips and sea safari tours.

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