There are some outstanding hotels in Kenmare for those that want to make this bustling town home for a night or 3.
Perfectly located for exploring the Ring of Kerry, the lively Kenmare is close to endless things to see and do.
Throw in the fact that there’s some great restaurants (like Mulcahys) and some mighty traditional pubs (like PF McCarthy’s) and you’ve a winning combination.
A note: While the various Kenmare hotels discussed below are all excellent, I personally always stay in O’Donnabhain’s as it’s central and generally excellent value
The best hotels in Kenmare
If you’re struggling to decide where to stay in Kenmare, the map above will give you the lay-of-the-land nice and quickly.
The main town area is highlighted in purple – any of the hotels in this area are at the heart of the action.
1. The Park Hotel Kenmare

Photos via Park Hotel Kenmare on FB
If you’re up for a splurge, the Victorian-era Park is arguably the most luxurious of the many Kenmare hotels.
It’s set on a nine-acre estate just back from the middle of town and overlooks Kenmare Bay to the back of the property.
The five-star Park Hotel boasts elegant rooms filled with antique decor and plush textiles. The estate grounds boasts a spa, pool, cinema, tennis court and adjacent golf course.
Plus, the award-winning restaurant has some of the best local produce featured in their five-course tasting menu. There’s a good reason that this is one of the finest 5 star hotels in Kerry.
2. The Lansdowne

Photos via The Lansdowne on FB
Located right across from the Park Hotel is the Lansdowne, which was originally established in 1790.
Guests can look forward to a blend of 21st-century comfort and historic charm and character, both in the hotels communal areas and its 28 rooms.
The rooms are bright, comfortable and come equipped with king beds and all of the modern comforts you could possibly need.
Although it’s a short walk from the many restaurants in Kenmare, the hotel’s on-site restaurants, the Shelburne Street Restaurant and The Nead, dish up delicious, locally inspired cuisine.
3. Coachman’s Townhouse Hotel

Photos via Coachman’s Townhouse Hotel on FB
You’ll find the Coachman’s a couple of doors on colourful Henry St. (the street you’ll see in most photos of Kenmare).
The rooms above the bar and restaurant are large and comfortable with both double and quadruple rooms available.
The bar downstairs has great live entertainment during the summer. It also has typical Irish pub food along with the usual drinks on offer.
The location is extremely convenient for those wondering where to stay in Kenmare that places them at the centre of the action.
4. Brook Lane Hotel

Photos via Brook Lane Hotel on FB
Brook Lane Hotel is a boutique 4-star hotel that’s a 15-minute walk from the centre of town.
The family-run hotel prides itself on professional service and friendly hospitality so you’ll certainly enjoy your stay here.
The whole hotel is elegantly dotted with cosy wood fires, leather lounges and velvet fabrics. There is a range of room options but they’re all equally beautiful with huge fluffy beds, perfect for a relaxing night.
The included breakfast spread is the best start to the day with delicious homemade and locally sourced produce from sourdough bread to free-range farm eggs.
5. The Kenmare Bay Hotel

This hotel complex is one of the most popular places to stay in Kenmare. It’s located a 15-minute walk from the town centre.
It has over 100 rooms available varying in size, as well as, self-catering lodges which are perfect for groups of up to six people.
The hotel also has a pool and fitness centre with a spa, gym and lap pool, making it one of the best hotels in Kenmare for families on a break.
All of the various things to do in Kenmare are right on its doorstep.
6. Sheen Falls

Photos via Sheen Falls on FB
Set amidst the stunning landscapes of Kenmare, Sheen Falls Lodge is one of the top hotels in Kerry. It offers a luxurious escape with a blend of contemporary elegance and historical charm.
Guests can indulge in fine dining at The Falls Restaurant, enjoy casual fare at The Stables Brasserie, or savour Mediterranean dishes at Nua Vista.
The lodge features a top-notch spa, a heated swimming pool, a fitness suite, and riverside walks.
With 60 rooms, 12 suites, and 5 cottages, accommodations range from cosy classic rooms to the expansive Falls Master Suite, all designed to offer breathtaking views and utmost comfort.
Review time: Have your say on the Kenmare hotels

Photo left: The Irish Road Trip. Others: Shutterstock
Kenmare is a gorgeous little town and, as mentioned above, it’s the perfect base for exploring many of the best things to do in Kerry, Ireland.
Have you stayed in any of the hotels in Kenmare that I’ve talked you through above? If so, what did you think?
Here are my thoughts on the hotels in Kenmare that I have stayed in:
- The Park: Outstanding service, magnificent old-world interior and a very memorable stay
- Kenmare Bay: Found it overpriced for the standard of the rooms