Amenities in West Clare

Scuba Diving from Kilkee

Kilkee is probably the most popular dive site in Ireland at present.  Situated on the South West Clare coastline it owes its existence to a natural break in the cliff wall facing the Atlantic.  It is renowned for its deep clear water and an abundance of flora and fauna.  Because of its exposed location the elements have ensured that Kilkee is well preserved and not over-dived as many sheltered locations tend to be.  There are over twenty surveyed dive sites some of which are described on Dive Ireland. 

Dolphin Watching in Kilkee

The mouth of the River Shannon is a Special Area of Conservation and is home to about 140 dolphins, and more marine and coastal wild-life, such as grey seals, gannets, guillemots, razorbills, coughs and peregrine falcons.

Each two hour dolphin watching boat trip from Carrigaholt, is an opportunity to see and learn about Bottlenose Dolphins as they interact with each other in their native habitat.

This Special Area of Conservation is home to about 140 dolphins and calves, the largest resident group in Europe.  The rugged and beautiful coastline at the Mouth of the Shannon provides nesting ledges for a variety of seabirds such as fulmars, guillemots and cormorants as well as rare coastal species like choughs, peregrines and ravens.  The storm beaches attract breeding grey seals and we are often privileged to watch the rapid development of the seal pups in the late summer and autumn.

A beautifully designed passenger boat provides superb viewing for everyone on board.  The hydrophone (underwater microphone) lets you listen to live dolphin sounds, when conditions allow.  There is also a bar and toilet facilities on board.  Experienced and friendly crews are qualified marine naturalists to answer any questions and look after your comfort and safety.

Open April through to October.  Trips run daily, weather permitting.
For details phone (065) 9058156 or visit www.dolphinwatch.ie.

The Pollock Holes/Local natural swimming pools

Located at the West End of Kilkee, a very popular place for adults and children alike for swimming and fishing in the rock pools and a great place to explore.

Kilkee Waterworld

For indoor swimming there is Kilkee Waterworld, a modern facility built in recent years at the eastern side of the town. Waterworld is a popular all weather facility with a range of indoor water attractions including a bubble pool, shower geysers, the 'lazy river ride' and a 61m crystal tower slide.
Opening Hours
Off-season: Please phone for details (065) 9056855
Summer:
June - Open Weekdays 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and Weekends 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
July & August - Open 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. daily
Classes available.
Email: kilkeeww@iol.ie
Website: http://www.kilkeewaterworld.ie/

Nevsail Watersports

Operating from Kilkee since 2004, Nevsail provides training in Sailing, Windsurfing, Power boating, Kayaking, Canoeing and much more for people of all ages.  Nevsail is recognised by the Irish Sailing Association (ISA) as a National Training Centre and all instructors are fully qualified by the ISA and Irish Canoe Union.  A water sports summer camp will be run for the months of July and August for boys and girls between the ages of 6 and 16.  A wide variety of activities are on offer from

• Kayaking
• Canoeing
• Windsurfing
• Sailing
• Power boating
• Surfing
• Boogie boarding
• Snorkelling
• Raft building and much more

For further information please visit our website.

Fishing at Kilkee

Kilkee is a fisherman's paradise.  The shore fishing and rock fishing are incomparable and crewed boats are available for hire for deep-sea fishing.

Walking in West Clare

The walks at both sides of the bay are justly famous.  The views on a clear day are of the Aran Islands to the north, Kerry to the south and Loop Head to the West.  The cliff scenery can only be described as spectacular. 

Kilkee Thalassotherapy Centre

In the past sea-weed baths were very popular and were regarded as beneficial to the health.  Today their modern successor is the Thalassotherapy Centre in Grattan Street.  A variety of sea based therapies are provided here by fully qualified personnel.  Fáilte Ireland approved accommodation is also available here.
Web: www.kilkeethalasso.com

Dining Out in Kilkee

Kilkee has a variety of cafés and restaurants to suit every taste and budget. Some specialise in locally caught fish and shellfish. Try them all!

Night Life in Kilkee

Kilkee's night life is legendary. With its relaxed informality and late night aura, the night owl is well catered for. The pubs and lounge bars have regular music and sing song sessions ranging from Grand Opera to the latest pop. Talent competitions, traditional Irish nights, cabaret, dancing and pub theatre are all regular features of the entertainment scene. There are several modern night-clubs also in the town.