The Inishkea Islands, located just 3km off the coast of County Mayo in Ireland, offer an untouched paradise with pristine white sandy beaches, abundant wildlife, and a rich history. This hidden gem feels like a tropical haven, featuring one of the most magnificent beaches in the nation.
History and Name Origin
The name Inishkea is believed to derive from Saint Kea, an ancient saint who once lived on the island. This sense of mystery adds to the island's allure, drawing visitors to explore its natural and historical wonders.
Natural Beauty and Wildlife
The main attraction is the island's remarkable natural magnificence. Visitors can enjoy plentiful wildlife, including a flourishing seal colony, diverse seabirds, and marine life beneath the surface. The beaches boast incredibly fine white sands, perfect for relaxation and swimming.
The archipelago consists of two islands: Inishkea North and Inishkea South, separated by a narrow channel. North Island is larger, rising higher and covered with heather and willow.
Access and Tours
The islands are only accessible by boat. Daily excursions and guided tours are available during summer, operated by Belmullet Boat Charters from Belmullet harbour. The ferry ride takes about 50 minutes, offering scenic views along the way.
Historical Sites
The location features significant historical sites, including a Christian monastery with beehive huts near St Colmcille's Church. It was once part of a thriving monastic community and later evolved into stone dwellings for a fishing settlement. Although uninhabited since the 1930s, these structures remain a captivating attraction.
While some individuals visit during summer, there are no permanent year-round inhabitants.
Visitor Experiences
A TripAdvisor reviewer wrote: "We had a fabulous trip to Inishkea with Belmullet Boat Charters. It's a stunning island with lots of space to wander around through the abandoned village, up to the highest point where you can see the sea all around, and a swim at one of the beaches with beautiful white sand."
Another added: "We had a great day. The ferry trip was lovely, about 50 minutes to the island. Kea also filled us in on what we were seeing while sailing. The island was just gorgeous; we swam and walked for 2 hours. Then we returned to the ferry and went on to see the cliffs, seals and cormorants."
