Ireland may not be known for heatwaves, but summer here—typically from June through August—offers something truly magical: long daylight hours (up to 18 hours), lush green landscapes, vibrant festivals, and mild temperatures averaging 15–20°C (59–68°F).
According to Fáilte Ireland (2024), summer remains the peak tourism season, with over 4.7 million visitors arriving during this time. As someone who has spent several summers exploring Ireland by road, train, and trail, I can confidently say it’s one of the most underrated summer destinations in Europe—if you know where to go and what to do.
🧭 Top Things to Do in Summer in Ireland
1. Explore Ireland’s National Parks
Ireland is home to six national parks, each offering free entry, dramatic scenery, and excellent walking trails.
Top Picks:
| Park | County | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Killarney National Park | Kerry | Lakes, Muckross House, waterfalls |
| Glenveagh | Donegal | Castle tours, hiking, red deer spotting |
| Wicklow Mountains | Wicklow | Glendalough monastic ruins, panoramic views |
| Connemara | Galway | Wild boglands, Twelve Bens hiking |
Pro Tip:
Start early to avoid crowds and wear proper hiking shoes. Irish trails can get muddy even in summer!
2. Take a Sea Swim or Coastal Dip
Sea swimming has become a cultural trend in Ireland post-COVID, with thousands of locals and tourists embracing the invigorating Atlantic chill.
Popular Spots:
- Forty Foot – Dublin’s legendary sea-swimming spot
- Myrtleville Beach – Co. Cork, family-friendly
- Salthill – Galway, with diving boards and lifeguards
- Keem Bay – Achill Island, a stunning Blue Flag beach
Safety Tip:
Always check tides and water temperatures (usually 13–16°C). Bring a towel robe or dry robe, and swim with others when possible.
3. Attend Summer Festivals and Events
Ireland truly comes alive in summer with hundreds of music, food, cultural, and art festivals.
Top 2025 Festivals:
| Festival | Location | Dates (Est.) | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Galway International Arts Festival | Galway | July 14–27 | Theatre, music, visual arts |
| Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann | Wexford | August 3–11 | Traditional Irish music, workshops |
| All Together Now | Waterford | August 1–3 | Music, camping, family zones |
| Dublin Pride Festival | Dublin | Late June | Parade, performances, LGBTQ+ events |
Insider Tip:
Book tickets and accommodation months in advance for popular festivals—especially in Galway or Dublin.
4. Hike or Bike a Greenway
Ireland has invested heavily in greenways—off-road paths ideal for cycling or walking. These are perfect for summer days out, whether solo, with friends, or family.
Best Greenways:
- Great Western Greenway (Mayo): Westport to Achill Island
- Waterford Greenway: Through tunnels, viaducts, and coastal scenery
- Royal Canal Greenway: Inland route through charming villages
5. Visit Islands Off the Coast
Ireland has over 80 inhabited islands, and many are accessible by ferry. These are ideal day trips or weekend getaways in summer.
Top Picks:
| Island | Access Point | Known For |
|---|---|---|
| Aran Islands | Doolin or Galway | Stone forts, Irish language culture |
| Achill Island | Co. Mayo (by bridge) | Keem Bay, cliffs, cycling |
| Inisheer | From Doolin | Compact beauty, shipwrecks |
| Dursey Island | Beara Peninsula | Cable car ride over the sea |
Note:
Always check ferry times in advance; rough seas can cause cancellations even in summer.
6. Enjoy Irish Food & Drink Outdoors
Summer is the time for open-air dining, farmer’s markets, and seafood shacks.
Recommendations:
- Seafood chowder in Howth or Dingle
- Artisan cheese tasting in Cashel or Macroom
- Outdoor markets in Galway, Cork, and Kilkenny
- Craft beer tours – try Franciscan Well (Cork), White Hag (Sligo), or Porterhouse (Dublin)
Personal Favourite:
The Saturday market in Galway’s St. Nicholas Church—you can sample fresh oysters, crêpes, falafel, and local chocolate in one go!
7. Take a Road Trip Along the Wild Atlantic Way
Stretching 2,500 km from Donegal to Cork, the Wild Atlantic Way is one of Europe’s most scenic drives.
Must-See Stops:
- Slieve League Cliffs – Donegal
- Cliffs of Moher – Clare
- Ring of Kerry – Kerry
- Mizen Head – Ireland’s most southwesterly point
Pro Tip:
Drive early or late in the day to avoid peak summer coach tours. And if you can, rent a campervan for flexibility and charm.
8. Join an Outdoor Workshop or Experience
Ireland’s summer calendar includes a range of immersive outdoor experiences, from kayaking tours to wild foraging.
Ideas:
- Sea kayaking in West Cork or Lough Hyne
- Foraging walks with Wild Kitchen in Lahinch
- Surf lessons in Bundoran or Lahinch
- Traditional music workshops in Clare or Sligo
👉 DiscoverIreland.ie for updated listings
🧳 Tips for Enjoying an Irish Summer
- Pack layers: Even in July, temperatures can swing from sunny to chilly
- Book ahead: Trains, buses, and hotels get busy—especially weekends
- Use public transport or carpool when heading to festivals or rural sites
- Check local tide and weather apps: I recommend Magic Seaweed and Met Éireann
📌 Summary Table: Best Things to Do in Summer in Ireland
| Activity | Region(s) | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| National Parks | Kerry, Donegal, Wicklow | Hiking, nature, family-friendly |
| Sea Swimming | Dublin, Galway, Achill | Health, community, beach lovers |
| Festivals | Galway, Dublin, Waterford | Music, food, culture |
| Greenway Cycling | Mayo, Waterford, Longford | Leisure, sightseeing |
| Island Hopping | West Coast | Seclusion, adventure, history |
| Coastal Road Trips | Wild Atlantic Way | Landscapes, photography |
| Food & Outdoor Dining | All Ireland | Local flavours, relaxing days |
| Outdoor Classes/Adventures | Clare, Kerry, Sligo | New skills, immersive fun |
FAQs
What’s the average summer temperature in Ireland?
Expect 15–20°C (59–68°F), but it can vary. Bring a light jacket and rainproof layer.
Are Irish beaches safe for swimming?
Yes—especially Blue Flag beaches, which meet high environmental and safety standards. Always check signage and lifeguard presence.
Is Ireland crowded in summer?
Tourist hotspots like Dublin, Galway, and the Cliffs of Moher can get crowded. Plan off-peak visits or explore lesser-known regions like Leitrim, Roscommon, and Cavan for a quieter experience.
Can I see the Northern Lights in Ireland during summer?
Not likely—Aurora Borealis is visible in Ireland mostly from October to March, and only under ideal conditions.
🏁 Final Thoughts: Ireland Is Built for Summer Discovery
Summer in Ireland is a rich, multisensory experience—the smell of wild honeysuckle, the sounds of fiddles on a pub patio, and the satisfaction of a coastal cycle or sea swim. It’s the season where the country truly opens its arms to visitors and locals alike.
As someone who’s swum in Connemara, danced at Galway Arts Fest, and biked to Achill, I can say with certainty: Ireland in summer is magic—and you don’t need tropical heat to fall in love.
Got questions or planning a trip? Feel free to drop them in the comments or message me—I’d love to help tailor your Irish summer adventure! 🇮🇪
Hi, I’m Tanvir, the founder and author of Explore Ireland Now. With a deep love for Ireland and its rich culture, history, and landscapes, I created this site to share everything that makes this beautiful country worth exploring. Whether you’re a local looking for hidden gems or a traveler planning your next adventure, I provide insightful guides, tips, and recommendations to help you experience Ireland to the fullest.
From stunning landscapes to vibrant cities and quaint villages, Ireland is full of wonders waiting to be discovered. Through my personal experiences and research, I aim to bring you the most up-to-date information and inspiration for your journey.
Thank you for visiting Explore Ireland Now—I hope my content helps you uncover all that this incredible country has to offer! If you have any questions or need travel advice, feel free to reach out.
