Ireland

Family activities in Ireland

With a varied landscape boasting lush countryside, bustling cities, and mysterious Celtic relics, there are loads of family activities in Ireland to enjoy during your holiday. And while they’re decidedly different, Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland share the same spirit that attracts millions of families yearly.

So whether you're looking to explore the rich and rugged scenery or let your hair down in one of the lively cities, there's something in Ireland for people of all ages. From surfing to exploring, you'll be surprised at the variety of family activities in Ireland available.

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CYN

Cairnryan

LAR

Larne

Tuesday - Friday	09:30
Saturday	09:30	21:00

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Timetable

1
Surfing in County Kerry
2
Water sports in County Longford
3
Caving in County Clare
4
Planning Your Family Trip to Ireland

Family Trip to Ireland

Surfing in County Kerry

One of the best things to do on a family trip to Ireland includes visiting and surfing in Kerry. The seaside town is surrounded by greenery, tidal caves, and popular beaches, meaning the activities are endless and perfect for fun family holidays in Ireland.

For those who love surfing or want to learn a new skill, the popular surf site, the Ballybunion Surf School, offers training for all ages and abilities. After hitting the waves, there are plenty of beachside restaurants that offer freshly caught seafood that the whole family will enjoy.

Water sports in County Longford

If surfing isn’t your family’s thing, there are plenty of other water-based options to explore when planning family trips to Ireland.

County Longford offers a real insight into the country’s past and is a great option for family days out in Ireland. The Camlin River flows through the northern part of the town and offers a delightful waterside walk - eventually leading to the Mall Park – a landscaped recreational area that kids will love.

As a whole, County Longford is something of a haven for outdoor sporting activities. With rivers, canals and lakes offering kayaking, paddling and angling, it’s an excellent choice for those looking for memorable children's holidays in Ireland and engaging family activities in Ireland.

Visitors can also participate in zorbing, white water wafting, and water tubing down the River Inny, which is bound to appeal to the whole family.

Caving in County Clare

For another great family activity in Ireland, why not drive along the west coast of Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way, and you’ll find Doolin, a picture-perfect town in beautiful County Clare. Set in the limestone landscape of the Burren, it’s a place of historical wonder – full of archaeological sites, rolling hills, and castle ruins.

Perfect for explorers of all ages, the rugged coast holds the old Doolin Cave, best known for its famous Great Stalactite. Formed from a single drop of water over thousands of years, it’s the longest of its kind in the Northern Hemisphere, and now measures in at a mammoth 23 feet.

While caving is a relatively physical activity, tours cater to most age groups and levels of ability, so unless you have very young children, this should be an activity you can all enjoy.

Planning Your Family Trip to Ireland

When planning your family trip to Ireland, it’s best to create an itinerary that balances sightseeing with plenty of downtime for the kids. Start with must-see highlights like Dublin’s interactive museums, the Cliffs of Moher, or the Wild Atlantic Way, then mix in family-friendly stops such as castles, beaches, and national parks.

Travelling by ferry gives you the flexibility to bring your own car, making it easy to explore at your own pace and adapt plans to suit your family’s needs. With so many fantastic family activities in Ireland to try for yourselves, don’t delay in booking your Cairnryan to Larne crossing today and start planning your fun-filled trip!

A popular surf site, the Ballybunion Surf School offers training for all ages and abilities.

Family Activities in Ireland FAQs

1 What are the best family activities in Ireland?

Popular family activities in Ireland include exploring beaches, visiting castles, enjoying outdoor adventures such as hiking or water sports, and discovering interactive museums. Many families also enjoy scenic drives and countryside walks that are easy to combine with short day trips.

2 Is Ireland a good destination for family holidays?

Yes. Ireland is a popular choice for family holidays thanks to its mix of outdoor activities, cultural attractions and child-friendly destinations. From beaches and national parks to museums and historic sites, there are plenty of family activities in Ireland suitable for all ages.

3 Are there family-friendly outdoor activities in Ireland?

Yes. Ireland offers a wide range of outdoor activities for families, including coastal walks, cycling routes, forest parks and water-based activities such as kayaking and surfing. These experiences make Ireland ideal for active family trips.

4 How do families travel to Ireland by ferry?

Many families choose to travel by ferry as it allows flexibility with luggage and the option to bring a car. Routes that include a ferry to Northern Ireland make it easy to explore both coastal and inland attractions at your own pace.

5 Is Ireland suitable for travelling with children of different ages?

Ireland works well for families with children of all ages. Younger children can enjoy parks, aquariums and gentle outdoor activities, while older children and teenagers often enjoy adventure sports, cultural attractions and exploring historic landmarks.

6 How long should I plan for a family trip to Ireland?

A short break of a few days is suitable for visiting one region, while a longer stay allows families to explore multiple areas and enjoy a wider range of activities. Travel by car makes it easier to adjust plans around children’s needs.

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