In this guide, you’ll discover the best things to do in Mayo, from scenic drives to unique and unusual places to visit!
You’ll find Mayo on Ireland’s West Coast, where the wider county often falls victim to the success of it’s most popular town: Westport.
Don’t get me wrong, Westport is well worth a visit – but there’s an awful lot more to this mighty county!
Below, you’ll discover everything from ‘hidden gems’, like the highest sea cliffs in Ireland, to some of the more popular places to visit in Mayo, like Croagh Patrick.
The best things to do in Mayo

Photo left + bottom right: Gareth McCormack. Top right: Anne-Marie Flynn (via Failte Ireland)
Home to many a fine walking trail, a glorious coastline with magnificent beaches and countless historical sites, there’s a lot to like about this corner of the Wild Atlantic Way.
And, while the likes of Croagh Patrick and Achill tend to get much of the attention, there are many outstanding places to visit in Mayo, as you’ll discover below.
1. The Doolough Valley

Photos via Shutterstock
If you’re looking to experience Ireland’s raw beauty up close, there are few places that pack a punch like the Doolough Valley.
Mountains just seem to melt together as far as the eye can see and the valley is rarely (based on my previous 3 visits) busy with cars or people.
If you visit, keep an eye out for a plain stone cross engraved with the words ‘Doolough Tragedy 1849’.
This memorial marks a tragic event that took place during the Great Famine during the mid 19th century.
There’s a lovely drive between Louisburgh (Mayo) and Leenaun (Galway) that you can do here (here’s a guide to follow).
2. The Atlantic Drive on Achill Island

Photos via Shutterstock
If you’re wondering what to do in Mayo when it’s raining, look no further than The Atlantic Drive.
Starting from Mulranny, this is a 55km scenic route that takes in the best of Achill Island over the course of 1/2 a day.
Over the course of the drive, you’ll see:
- Minaun Heights
- Keel Beach
- Ashleam Bay
- Keem Bay
- Plenty more
3. The Mullet Peninsula

Photos courtesy Christian McLeod via Failte Ireland
This is one for those of you looking for off the beaten path places to visit in Mayo. You’ll find the often-missed Mullet Peninsula in the northwest of the county.
It’s here that you’ll discover gorgeous, craggy coastline, beautiful unspoiled beaches (like Elly Bay), three lighthouses and endless tracks and trails for long coastal walks.
For some reason, the Mullet Peninsula still falls into the ‘hidden gem’ category. Many of those that visit Mayo tend to either pass it by or fail to even realise that it exists.
Which, of course, makes it the perfect spot for a bit of exploring without the crowds.
4. Croagh Patrick

Photos via Shutterstock
I climbed Croagh Patrick once, back in 2016. I was fresh out of back surgery and my dad had a dodgy hip, and we hadn’t actually planned on going the whole way to the summit.
But we did and the view out over Clew Bay was like something plucked straight from an oil painting.
The time it takes to complete the hike will vary, depending on pace. We did it relatively slowly and it took around 4.5 hours.
If you’d like to give this hike a lash, you’ll find everything that you need to know in our guide to climbing Croagh Patrick.
Related read: Discover loads more places to visit like Croagh Patrick in our guide to 77 of the best things to do in Ireland.
5. The Great Western Greenway

Photos via Shutterstock
The Great Western Greenway spans an impressive 43.5km and follows a section of a 19th-century Midlands Great Western Railway route.
It now takes cyclists from the buzzy town of Westport to the picturesque island of Achill, stopping at Newport and Mulranny.
This is an easy going trail that’ll suit those with moderate fitness. Here’s how it’s broken down:
- Westport to Newport: 12km (40-min cycle)
- Newport to Mulranny: 18km (1-hour cycle)
- Mulranny to Achill: 13.5km (40-min cycle)
6. Downpatrick Head

Photos via Shutterstock
One of my favourite things to do in Mayo is to spend a couple of hours at Downpatrick Head.
It’s here that you’ll find the enormous sea stack known as Dún Briste jutting out of the ocean at 40m above the wild Atlantic waves.
Dún Briste was formed over 350 million years ago when sea temperatures were higher and the coastline was a greater distance away from its current position.
Although I’ve visited 7 or 8 times, it never fails to amaze. There’s a little car park on-site here and the walk to the sea stack takes less than 10 minutes.
7. Tourmakeady Woods

Photos via Shutterstock
Tourmakeady is a little town that’s located in the largest Gaeltacht (Irish speaking area) in Ireland (around 35 minutes from Croagh Patrick).
The woods here are the perfect place for a ramble. Grab a coffee in the village and head for a stroll along some of the gorgeous, quiet forest trails.
There’s a lovely walk (see our guide to the Tourmakeady Waterfall Walk) that you can do here that’ll take you along forest tracks and past a lovely little waterfall.
This is another place that’s well worth the visit that tends to get omitted from many guides to the best things to do in Mayo.
8. The Céide Fields

Photo left and bottom right: Michael Mc Laughlin. Top right: Alison Crummy. Via Failte Ireland
Beneath the boglands of North Mayo lies the Céide Fields – the most extensive Stone Age monument in the world, as it happens.
The Céide Fields are an archaeological site that is home to the oldest known field systems, dwelling areas, and megalithic tombs on earth.
The magnificent stone-walled fields extend out over thousands of acres and are an incredible 6,000 years old.
Visitors can learn more about the fields on a guided 40-minute tour for just €5 (adult ticket).
9. Cong Village

Photo left: The Irish Road Trip. Others: via Pat Cohan’s
The little village of Cong was catapulted to fame in 1952 when it was used as a filming location for the award-winning movie ‘The Quiet Man’, starring John Wayne and Maureen O’Hara.
It’s here that you’ll find a gorgeous village, the ‘Quiet Man Cottage’, the very swanky Ashford Castle, an old Abbey and plenty more.
I’ve never seen the movie, but I’ve enjoyed stopping off in Cong for coffee (Puddleducks Café is a grand spot to nip into) and to stretch the legs on many visits to Mayo.
10. Benwee Head

Photos via Shutterstock
If you’re visiting the North Mayo coast and you’re looking for walks, you’re in luck – there’s a clatter of long and short rambles that’ll take you up and around Benwee Head.
One of the best is the Benwee Head Loop, which takes around 3-4 hours and that requires some planning, as the trail is tricky in places.
The nearby Portacloy Loop is much handier, although the views it treats you to aren’t as impressive as the Benwee Walk.
11. Westport

Photos via Shutterstock
One of the more popular places to visit in Mayo is Westport Town, a beacon for domestic and international tourists.
Home to Matt Molloy’s, one of the most famous pubs in Westport, the town makes a great base to explore from.
Here are some guides to get stuck into:
- 15 things to do in Westport
- 8 great restaurants in Westport
- 8 best hotels in Westport
12. The Croaghaun Cliffs

Photos via Shutterstock
If you’re looking for active things to do in Mayo, head to Achill and take the trail to see the Croaghaun Cliffs – Ireland’s highest sea cliffs.
Croaghaun is a big aul 688 metres (2,257 ft) high mountain that can be reached from Keem Bay.
This hike to reach them is a strenuous, 5km/2-3 hours that requires caution in places.
Now, if you’re reading the above and thinking, ‘Wait the Slieve League Cliffs in Donegal are the highest sea cliffs in Ireland!’, you’re not far off.
Slieve League are the highest accessible cliffs in Ireland. The cliffs at Croaghaun (on Achill Island) are the highest in Ireland (and the third highest in Europe).
13. Silver Strand

Photo left and top right: Kelvin Gillmor. Other: Google Maps
If you’re looking for hidden gems, carve out some time to head for a saunter along Silver Strand Beach in Mayo.
This is a remote little beach that’s a handy spin from the town of Louisburgh.
On the last couple of occasions that I’ve visited, I’ve had the whole, glorious place all to myself. The water here is crystal clear and the mountain backdrop will make your eyes happy.
Some other mighty beaches in Mayo are Old Head Beach, Keel Beach and Bertra Beach.
14. The Lost Valley

Photos via the Lost Valley
If you’re wondering what to do in Mayo that the vast majority of people who visit the county tend to miss, head to the Lost Valley,.
This is an area that has remained largely untouched since the villagers who lived there were evicted and driven out during The Great Famine.
The valley is privately owned by the Bourke family, who’ve farmed it over a century.
Before owning it, they were employed by a landlord to farm in the valley and, interestingly enough, before that they were one of the families evicted.
The Lost Valley is now a working farm where visitors can experience farm life and head off on a fully guided cultural adventure.
15. Clare Island

Photos courtesy Niamh Whitty via Fáilte Ireland
Clare Island is situated just off the south Mayo coast at the entrance to Clew Bay. The ferry from Roonagh Quay near Louisburgh takes just 20 minutes.
Visitors to the island can expect spectacular cliffs, hills, bogs, and woodlands.
You’ll also find Clare Island Lighthouse high up on some of the island’s cliffs, offering an incredible view of the surrounding mountains.
The current owner purchased the lighthouse in 2008 and ensured that it was carefully renovated back to its former glory. It’s now available to rent for those looking for unusual places to stay in Ireland.
16. Ballycroy National Park

Photos via Shutterstock
Next up is another of the often-missed things to do in Mayo – Ballycroy National Park.
A fine place for a long (10 hours +) or short walk.
If you’re looking to go off the grid for a bit, dodge tourists, and experience a bit of Ireland that’s wild and remote beyond belief, then this ones for you.
Established in 1998, Ballycroy National Park boasts 15,000 hectares of Atlantic blanket bog and rugged mountainous terrain.
17. Aasleagh Falls

Photos via Shutterstock
So, I always thought that Aasleagh Falls was situated in Galway… In fact, I’m pretty sure that we have it listed in our guide to the best things to do in Galway…
You’ll find this little waterfall a stone’s throw from the little village of Leenane, where (hopefully I’m getting this right…) it’s sat just off the Galway/Mayo border.
It’s located on the River Erriff, just before the river meets the magnificent Killary Harbour.
There’s parking nearby but, as this is one of the more popular places to see in Mayo, it can get very busy.
18. Take a spin out to the Knock Shrine

Photos via Shutterstock
The story of Knock began on the 21st of August, 1879 when 15 people from the village witnessed an Apparition.
The Apparition was of Our Lady, St. Joseph, St. John the Evangelist, and a Lamb on an altar at the gable wall of the Parish Church.
It’s said that the 15 people watched the Apparition in the pouring rain for 2 hours and that although they themselves were soaked by the rain, not a single drop fell on the gable or vision.
The group ranged in age from 5 to 74 years old and each person gave testimonies to a Commission of Enquiry in October 1879. The Commission found that the testimonies were both trustworthy and satisfactory.
19. National Museum of Ireland – Country Life

Photos courtesy National Museum of Ireland via Ireland’s Content Pool
If you’re looking for things to do in Mayo when it’s raining, the National Museum of Ireland-Country Life in Castlebar is a great option.
Visitors to the museum can experience the story of Irish country life between 1850 and 1950 via a clatter of artefacts, displays, archival video footage, and interactive screens.
Soak up some history for a bit and then head for a stroll through the stunning grounds of Turlough Park (where the museum is situated).
There’s also plenty of things to do in Castlebar when you’re finished.
20. Achill Island
Achill Island is special, there are no two ways about it.
Connected to the mainland by the Michael Davitt Bridge, Achill is scattered with peat bogs, rugged mountains and towering sea cliffs.
It’s also home to an abundance of beautiful beaches and bays. The biggest draw on the island, for me, is the secluded Keem Bay.
However, some of the other things to do on Achill Island include Golden Strand, Ashleam Bay and the Deserted Village.
21. The Erris Head Loop Walk

Map via Sport Ireland. Photos via Shutterstock
The Erris Head Loop Walk is one of those walks that’ll banish the stickiest of cobwebs.
If you’ve never been to Erris, it’s a remote little corner of Mayo that stretches from Ballycroy National Park to the Mullet Peninsula.
Back in 2014, it was crowned ‘Best Place to Go Wild in Ireland’, thanks to its balance of nature, wilderness, beauty, activities, and accessibility.
If you’re looking to see the landscape up close, the Erris Head Loop Walk is well worth a bash.
22. Belleek Woods

Photos courtesy Anne-Marie Flynn via Ireland’s Content Pool
The Belleek Woods walk is another handy one if you’re staying in Ballina.
There’s a main loop trail in Belleek Woods that stretches 4km long.
You should allow about 90 minutes to tackle it as there are plenty places to stop and soak up the river views.
When you’re finished, nip into the Armada Bar in Belleek Castle – it’s arguably one of the most beautiful pubs in Ireland.
23. Inishturk Island

Photos via Shutterstock
I first heard of Inishturk Island from a friend at work. At the time, I was embarrassed to admit that I’d never heard of it.
I was even more embarrassed when he showed me photos of the place. Inishturk is a little chunk of unspoiled paradise on the Wild Atlantic Way.
Perched atop of towering cliffs and steep hills, the island juts out of the wild North Atlantic Ocean, reaching 621ft at its highest point.
Home to under 100 people, the island is situated 6 km from the little town of Louisburgh. If you fancy exploring the island when you visit Mayo, you can reach it by ferry.
24. Lough Corrib

If you fancy seeing Mayo from a different angle, take a spin out to Ashford Castle or Lisloughrey Pier and climb aboard a Lough Corrib Cruise.
The cruises take you along Lough Corrib, the largest lake in the Republic of Ireland. You’ll get to see a clatter of sights from the comfort of the little boat and your host will provide detailed commentary along the way.
There are a couple of different cruises that you can do with the lads at Corrib Cruises. I’ve heard good things above the morning one-hour history cruise that leaves from Ashford Castle.
If you’re looking for things to do in Mayo for families, you can’t go wrong with an evening spent on the Corrib.
25. Mulranny

Photos via Shutterstock
Mulranny is a fine little base for a mini staycation.
This little seaside village can be found at the foot of the Nephin Mountain Range, between Clew Bay and Blacksod Bay.
The area is home to a number of unreeeeeeal beaches, like the one you can see in the photo above.
This is another spot that’s located on Mayo’s Great Western Greenway, so if you’re looking for active things to do in Mayo when you visit, you can easily use Mulranny as a base for a nice long cycle.
26. Unique accommodation

Photos via Further Space
Although there are plenty of great hotels in Mayo, there’s also a fair few quirky places to stay if you fancy a night away with a difference.
If you fancy kipping in a pod by the sea, check out our guide to the best places to go glamping in Mayo.
If you fancy splashing the cash, the likes of Ashford Castle is worth a look!
27. Newport

Photos via Shutterstock
Many people that visit Mayo tend to base themselves in Westport. I’ve been guilty of this myself. It wasn’t until 2017 that I used Newport for a base for a few nights.
Since then, I’ve been using it as a base to explore Mayo any time that I visit. Newport is a little village that’s a grand spot if you plan on cycling the Great Western Greenway.
There’s a gorgeous harbour here that’s supposed to be great for fishing and there’s a nice, pokey little main street. Brannen’s pub is also a mighty little spot.
I spent far too many hours in there on my own one winter – the interior is old-school, those working there (when I visited, anyway) were friendly and the Guinness was the business.
28. Moyne and Ballintubber Abbey

Photos via Shutterstock
The ruins of Moyne Abbey are one of the lesser-known tourist attractions in Mayo. You’ll find them in Killala, not far from the town of Ballina.
This was once a friary and it was founded way back in 1460. The ruins here are impressive; there’s a 6-story square tower, a renaissance door, a vaulted chapter room and plenty more.
Ballintubber Abbey near Westport is another interesting site.
This historic building is the only church in Ireland where mass has been offered without a break for 800 years!
Visit the various places to visit in Mayo on a road trip
Now that I have the various things to do in County Mayo out of the way, it’s time for itineraries.
If you’re starting a road trip from Mayo and you need an itinerary, we have 50 itineraries that start in County Mayo.
They range from 3 days to 21 days and you can pick your mode of transport, fitness level and more. See them in our Irish Road Trip hub.
Have questions on what to do in Mayo? Ask away in the comments below!
Keith O’Hara has lived in Ireland for 35 years and has spent much of the last 13 creating what is now The Irish Road Trip guide. Over the years, the website has published thousands of meticulously researched Ireland travel guides, welcoming 40 million+ visitors along the way. In 2022, the Irish Road Trip team published the world’s largest collection of Irish Road Trip itineraries. Keith lives in Dublin with his dog Toby and finds writing in the 3rd person minus craic altogether.
Ann Clayton
Wednesday 6th of April 2022
We are contemplating a trip to Mayo at the end of this month, after reading your web site we are so going. Thank you for all the advice.
Keith O'Hara
Wednesday 6th of April 2022
Thanks Ann - I'm glad it was of some help and the best of luck with the trip!
Alan ci
Wednesday 9th of June 2021
Amazing suggestions, i feel like Moore Hall is missing and the beautiful views around it
Muirti
Monday 17th of May 2021
Stand up paddle board beneath the reak with summer SUP
Leonard
Friday 9th of October 2020
Rosserk Friary is close to Moyne Abbey and is also well worth a look and Errew Abbey at Lough Conn makes the trifecta. Well written article - looking forward to checking out the other county lists when I'm allowed to leave Mayo again
Pat Baker
Friday 21st of August 2020
Thank you for all the wonderful places and views of Westport and areas and so informative as to what to see and do while touring and all the hidden gems. I was sad to see that the area of Rossbeg was not mentioned in your tour of Westport. It is the ancestral home of my family Louden and Flanagan, I would have loved to learn of its beauty and history and places to visit. I am hoping one day to see it for myself.