Located on Liscannor Bay on the northwest coast of Ireland, Lahinch is a seaside village well positioned for exploring County Clare and the wider Munster region. The focal point of the town is undoubtedly its 1.25-mile sandy beach on the Atlantic Ocean — it’s Blue Flag certified, which means it is clean and safe to swim in. There’s also a lifeguard on duty for extra peace of mind. The breaks formed by the crescent-shaped headlands attract thrill-seeking canoeists and surfers. In fact, there’s a thriving surf scene in the town, with shops, schools, and social events. Sailors, swimmers, kite surfers, and all types of anglers also come to Lahinch to take in the marine offerings.

Lahinch’s colorful streets are lined with independent shops and galleries showcasing local creations. The cafes and traditional pubs make cozy spots to while away a few hours, especially when accompanied by live music. Curious foodies can take a wild-food walk and may even find local seaweed dishes on the menu. North of town, the marshland draws birders to look and listen for pink-footed geese and other rare species. Meanwhile, golfers come here to play a few rounds on the two acclaimed courses in the area.

Lahinch weather is cool, humid, and fairly mild, with light rainfall common throughout the year. Because of the town’s location on the coast, temperatures rarely drop to freezing in winter, but Atlantic storms occur from late autumn through winter, so book your visit for spring and summer if you want to avoid extreme weather. May is the driest and sunniest month, and June and July the warmest, though the heat will never be considered tropical. If you book your Lahinch accommodation for March, you’ll experience St. Patrick’s Day in full swing on the 17th, when the town comes to life with live music and parades.

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.