👋 Hey, how's it going? Brian here from Vagabond Tours of Ireland!
If you're planning a trip along Ireland's spectacular Wild Atlantic Way, you'll quickly discover why Dingle is one of the country's most beloved coastal towns.
Colourful streets, lively traditional music, dramatic scenery and unforgettable outdoor adventures make Dingle one of our favourite towns to visit while on one of our Ireland adventure tours.
Whether you're searching for family friendly activities, outdoor experiences or simply wondering what to do in Dingle, Ireland, this guide covers everything you need to plan the perfect visit.
Read on to learn more about what to do in Dingle, Ireland.
🗺️ Where Is Dingle?
Located on the stunning Dingle Peninsula in County Kerry, Dingle sits on Ireland's southwest coast overlooking the sheltered waters of Dingle Bay.
Despite its small size, Dingle has earned an international reputation for its welcoming atmosphere, vibrant arts scene and incredible access to outdoor adventures. It's also an excellent base for exploring Slea Head Drive, the Blasket Islands and some of Ireland's most spectacular coastal scenery.
Find out what tours visit Dingle.
🛥️ Outdoor Adventures In Dingle
There is an endless number of outdoor activities to do in Dingle and it's impossible to list them all. We have narrowed it down to our favourites to do on our Ireland adventure tours.
Dingle Sea Safari
One of the best outdoor activities in Dingle has to be the Dingle Sea Safari. This boat trip takes you out into Dingle Bay where you'll cruise past towering sea cliffs, hidden caves and remote islands. Make sure to keep an eye out for local wildlife including seals, seabirds and dolphins.
Take the Dingle Sea Safari on our 12 Day Vagabond Giant Irish Adventure Tour.
Horseback Riding In Ventry
Exploring the Dingle Peninsula on horseback offers quite a unique perspective of the surrounding landscape. Our partners at Longs Horseriding center cater for both beginners and experienced riders, with guided treks taking in mountain trails and panoramic coastal views over Ventry.
We highly recommend trying horseback riding on our 5 Day Vagabond Edge Of The World Adventure Tour.
Kayaking In Dingle Bay
If getting out on the water is your thing, then sea kayaking has to be on your list. Guided tours explore the calm waters of Dingle Bay while introducing visitors to the area's fascinating marine life, hidden coves and striking coastline.
Give kayaking a go on our 7 Day Vagabond World Tour.
Play A Round Of Golf
Golf enthusiasts visiting Dingle shouldn't miss the opportunity to play a links course here in Ireland. Céann Sibéal Dingle Golf Links combines challenging fairways with breathtaking views across the Dingle Peninsula and the surrounding mountains.
In the picture above, you can see the iconic Blasket Islands.
Enjoy a round of golf during our 8 Day Wild Irish Rover Tour.
Dingle's Craft Shops
If you love craft you'll be astounded at all the creativity that surrounds this town including the superb crystal cutter Sean Daly, the fabulous jeweler, Brian De Staic, who was commissioned by our government to create and present a piece for Pope John Paul II and wonderful weavers such as Fiadh Durham and Lisbeth Mulcahy. Throughout Dingle there are crafts people who work with clay, stone, wool, wood, metal and paint.
🍤 Where To Eat In Dingle?
Dingle's food scene is one of the best in Ireland. Fresh Atlantic seafood straight from it's source alongside traditional Irish hospitality combine to create one of Ireland's best small town dining destinations.
Out Of The Blue
If there's one restaurant that locals and visitors alike rave about, it's Out of the Blue. Facing Dingle Harbour, this award winning seafood only restaurant has earned a stellar reputation by keeping things beautifully simple. Serving fresh Irish seafood, cooked with care.
James Longs
Looking for a hearty meal served with a warm Irish welcome? James Long's Gastro Pub is a fan favourite amongst Vagabond guests. The menu blends classic Irish comfort food with contemporary pub favourites. Expect dishes like slow-cooked lamb, fresh Atlantic seafood, juicy burgers and other seasonal specials. Guests can enjoy their dinner here with a beautifully poured pint of Guinness.
The Fish Box
For a laid back seafood experience, we recommend that you make your way to The Fish Box. Run by a local fishing family, this much loved spot serves fresh, sustainably sourced seafood that's sourced just a stone's throw from the restaurant. It doesn't get much fresher than that.
Murphy's Ice Cream
Got a sweet tooth after your dinner? No visit to Dingle is complete without a stop at Murphy's Ice Cream. What began in Dingle has grown into one of Ireland's best-loved artisan ice cream makers.
Murphy's is known for crafting ice cream using fresh Irish milk and cream, with many of the flavours inspired by the local landscape. Alongside classics like Vanilla and Chocolate, you'll find uniquely Irish creations such as Dingle Sea Salt, Brown Bread, Irish Coffee and Kerry Cream.
If you have your heart set on a particular restaurant, we recommend pre-booking your dinner.
🍻 Best Pubs And Local Craic
Dingle's pub scene is up there with the very best in the country, offering everything from lively traditional music sessions to quiet corners perfect for a pint.
Dick Mack's
Stepping into Dick Mack's Pub feels like stepping into a piece of Dingle's history. This is probably one of the most well-known pubs in Dingle and It’s often considered one of the best pubs in Dingle for atmosphere and history.
Stars such as Sean Connery, Robert Mitchum, and Julia Roberts have all crossed the threshold.
Dick Mack's boasts its own version of the Hollywood Walk of Fame, with famous visitors recorded in stars on the pavement outside.
The rest of its colourful exterior certainly is distinctive!
Foxy John's
Only in Ireland could you pop into a pub for a pint and leave with a box of nails. Foxy John's is one of Dingle's most distinctive pubs, sharing its space with a traditional hardware shop that's been serving the town for generations.
O'Sullivan's Courthouse Pub
If you're looking for an authentic Irish pub with a warm welcome, O'Sullivan's Courthouse Pub is a great place to settle in for the evening. Located beside Dingle's old courthouse, this family-run pub has long been a favourite with locals and visitors alike. 
Live traditional Irish music is a regular feature, with talented local musicians creating the kind of lively, toe-tapping atmosphere Dingle is famous for.
You are guaranteed world class musicians and singers. Beautiful ballads silence everyone!
Learn more about the best pubs in Dingle.
🏨 Where To Stay In Dingle
Dingle isn't short of great accommodation options. Here is a list of our favourite hotels to stay in while on a small group tour of Ireland.
Dingle Benners Hotel
If you'd like to stay right in the heart of Dingle, Dingle Benners Hotel is an excellent choice. Located on Main Street, the hotel is just a short walk from Dingle Harbour, shops, restaurants and many of the town's best pubs, making it an ideal base for exploring on foot.
After a fun day discovering the Dingle Peninsula, guests can relax in Mrs Benners Bar, which serves breakfast, lunch, dinner and afternoon tea using locally sourced, seasonal produce.
Enjoy a 2 night stay at the Dingle Benners Hotel on our 11 Day Discover Ireland Tour.
Emlagh House Hotel
If you're looking for a peaceful escape just outside the bustle of Dingle, Emlagh House offers the best of both worlds. This family-run guesthouse is set in beautifully maintained gardens.
Guests can relax at the Emlagh House Hotel on our 7 Day Treasure Ireland Tour.
Dingle Skelligs Hotel
Perched on the edge of Dingle Bay, Dingle Skellig Hotel offers panoramic views across the water while still being just a short walk from the heart of Dingle.
The hotel offers a range of spacious rooms, a leisure centre with a swimming pool, sauna and steam room. Food is an important part of the experience, with the Coastguard Restaurant showcasing fresh, locally sourced ingredients and views over Dingle Bay.
Guests love staying here on our 12 Day Giant Irish Adventure Tour.
Want to know more about the Driftwood and Vagabond small-group tours that visit Dingle?
Contact us today!
