​County Mayo is one of Ireland’s best counties for exploring with your dog. From wild Atlantic beaches and forest walks to cosy pubs where you can enjoy a pint after an adventure, Mayo makes it easy to include your four-legged travel companion.

There are plenty of places to bring your dog, from pubs, cafes and restaurants to woodlands, beaches and islands, but below are just a few of our top picks. 

Whether you’re road-tripping the Wild Atlantic Way, exploring Westport and Achill Island or heading off the beaten track, here are some dog-friendly spots in Mayo worth adding to your itinerary.

1. M.J. Hoban’s, Westport – A Dog-Friendly Pub Stop in the Heart of Westport

If you’re exploring Westport with your dog, a visit to M.J. Hoban is a must. Located beside the famous Octagon Monument, this traditional Westport pub is known for its welcoming atmosphere, food and live music. We stopped by this great local spot to watch Mayo beat Kerry in the All Ireland Final and what a place to be to witness a momentous event.

Whether you are seeking an indoor dog-friendly spot after a walk along the Great Western Greenway or exploring the colourful streets of Westport, it’s the perfect place to relax with your dog while soaking up the classic Irish pub atmosphere. Dogs are not just tolerated here, they are adored!
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Perfect for: A post-walk pint, lunch stop or evening trad session.

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2. Achill Seal Caves Caravan & Camping Park – Stay Close to the Wild

For vanlifers and campers travelling with dogs, Achill Seal Caves Caravan & Camping Park is a brilliant base for exploring Achill Island. Located near Dugort, alongside the fabulous Dugort Beach, the campsite welcomes dogs and puts you close to some of Achill’s most dramatic scenery, including beaches, mountain walks and Atlantic views.
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With facilities for campers and easy access to the surrounding landscape, it’s ideal for adventurous dogs who love being outdoors.
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Perfect for: Campervans, coastal walks and exploring Achill Island.

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3. The Wyatt Hotel, Westport – A Dog-Friendly Base for Exploring Mayo

If you’re looking for a dog-friendly hotel stay, The Wyatt Hotel in the heart of Westport is one of Mayo’s best-known options. The hotel offers a limited number of dog-friendly bedrooms, including rooms with direct exterior access and dog beds provided. Its central location means you’re within walking distance of Westport’s shops, pubs and walking routes.

- Please note that dogs are currently not allowed in public areas of the hotel including the main entrance. 

Perfect for: A dog-friendly weekend exploring Westport, Croagh Patrick and the surrounding coastline.

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4. Belleek Woods – Woodland Walks by the River

Belleek Woods is a beautiful spot for a dog-friendly walk, with peaceful woodland trails winding through one of Ireland’s largest urban parks. Located just outside Ballina, it’s a lovely place to escape into nature with your dog, with plenty of trees, riverside scenery and trails to explore.

It’s ideal for dogs like Gimli, who enjoy a good sniff and a change of scenery, while the variety of paths means you can make your walk as short or long as you like.

- Please note that dogs need to be kept on a lead throughout the woodlands.

Perfect for: Woodland walks, active dogs and a peaceful escape from the coast.

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5. Clare Island – A Dog-Friendly Island Adventure

Clare Island makes for a brilliant day trip with your dog, offering rugged coastal scenery, beaches, walking trails and plenty of space to explore together. You can easily reach the island from Roonagh Pier with Clare Island Fast Ferries, making it an easy addition to a Wild Atlantic Way adventure.

Once on the island, you can explore at your own pace and enjoy the beautiful scenery, with dogs able to experience the island alongside you. We did an 8km looped trail which was the perfect way to soak up the beauty of the island. This was my first time here and upon finding out that dogs are permitted on the ferry, I jumped at the chance to visit. I cannot wait to return again one day!

Perfect for: Island adventures, coastal walks and a feeling of stepping back in time. 

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6. This Must Be the Place – Dog-Friendly Café in Westport

If you’re looking for a dog-friendly café in Westport, This Must Be the Place is a brilliant find because dogs are welcome inside. That's right, forget about sitting outside on a cold, rainy day, because this spot is truly dog-friendly and not just dog-tolerant. I actually visited years ago and absolutely loved it, so finding out that they now welcome dogs inside makes it even better!

It’s the kind of place that’s perfect for stopping for a coffee or bite to eat while exploring Westport, without having to leave your four-legged travel companion outside. The delicious food, the fabulous ambience, the central location - it is a place well worth saving for your County Mayo itinerary. 

Perfect for: Coffee stops, lunch and enjoying Westport with your dog by your side.
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Explore More of County Mayo with Your Dog

Want even more dog-friendly places to discover in County Mayo? My County Mayo Dog-Friendly Guidebook is packed with more places to stay, walk, eat, explore and visit with your dog, so you can make the most of your time exploring the county together.

​Ready to explore? Grab the full guidebook and start planning your next dog-friendly adventure around Mayo and check out our other guides to see more featured destinations!

​If you’re looking for a dog-friendly adventure in County Mayo, Clare Island should be high on your list. Located just off Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way, this beautiful island offers everything I love about travelling with my dog Gimli — dramatic coastal scenery, peaceful walking trails, fascinating history, and the freedom to explore somewhere truly unique together. Despite visiting Westport and other parts of County Mayo over the years, I had never been to Clare Island until now. 

As someone who travels extensively with my Labrador, I’m always searching for places where dogs are genuinely welcomed rather than simply tolerated. Clare Island was exactly that. From the moment we stepped onto the ferry, it felt like the perfect escape for both of us and in this guide I will show you why it is the ultimate dog-friendly day out just a stones throw from Westport. 

​Visiting Clare Island with a Dog: Getting There by Ferry

The adventure begins before you even arrive. To reach Clare Island, I travelled with Clare Island Fast Ferries from Roonagh Pier, located near Louisburgh in County Mayo (and just 30 minutes from bustling Westport). The weather was gorgeous, and with the heatwave coming to an end, it was neither too hot nor too cold—just perfect for an island adventure.

Even with the sunshine and blue skies, the sea was choppy, so I was grateful to reach the island in record time with Clare Island Fast Ferries, who can take you there in as little as 10 minutes, which is amazing.

The short ferry crossing across Clew Bay is a beautiful experience in itself, with incredible views of the Mayo coastline, surrounding islands, and the iconic mountains in the distance. Dogs are welcome onboard and on the island (including the beach and walking trails) making Clare Island one of the best dog-friendly island trips in Ireland.

Gimli loved being part of the journey, and there was something special about watching the mainland disappear behind us as we headed towards a quieter, slower-paced way of life. For dog owners looking for a unique day trip in Mayo, the fact that you can bring your four-legged companion along makes Clare Island even more appealing.

​The History of Clare Island: Home of Grace O’Malley
Although Clare Island is small, it has a fascinating history that stretches back thousands of years. The island is most famously connected to Grace O’Malley (Gráinne Mhaol), the legendary Irish pirate queen and Gaelic chieftain who ruled much of the west coast of Ireland during the 16th century.

​Clare Island was once her stronghold, and her legacy remains one of the island’s biggest attractions - you can even see the surname O'Malley almost everywhere including O'Malley foodstore & post office on the island. Interestingly, Clare Island Fast Ferries is a family run business, run by descendants of Grace O'Malley, who have been seafarers for generations. History is alive and well here, and I loved finding out this local fact. 

One of the most important historical sites to visit is Clare Island Abbey, a 15th-century abbey famous for its beautiful medieval wall paintings. The abbey is also believed to be the final resting place of Grace O’Malley, making it a fascinating stop for anyone interested in Irish history.

Beyond its famous pirate queen, Clare Island has a rich heritage shaped by ancient settlements, traditional farming, and generations of island communities who have called this remote corner of Mayo home. ​I had the chance to chat with a lovely local lady during my walk, who had relocated to the island from New Zealand many years ago and praised the area for it's slow pace of life and tight knit community. 

​Hiking the Knocknaveen Trail on Clare Island
One of the highlights of my visit was the 8km Knocknaveen Trail, part of Clare Island’s network of walking routes that showcase the island’s rugged beauty and spectacular coastal scenery.

The trail took us through peaceful countryside, past grazing sheep, and up towards elevated viewpoints overlooking Clew Bay, Achill Island, and the surrounding Mayo coastline. As we climbed higher, the views became increasingly impressive, offering a perspective of the island that you simply can't appreciate from the ferry or village alone.
For Gimli, it was the perfect adventure. Due to the roaming sheep, it is essential to keep your dog on a leash at all times and to give them space as you pass by. 

​The quiet trails, fresh sea air, and endless new scents kept him thoroughly entertained, while I enjoyed the sense of remoteness that makes Clare Island feel so special. The route offered a wonderful mix of nature, scenery, and solitude, making it one of my favourite experiences on the island.

If you're visiting Clare Island with a dog, the Knocknaveen Trail is a fantastic way to experience the island beyond its historic sites and village centre. In saying that, there are various trails to suit all levels, which are mapped at the visitors centre by the pier. 

​Refuelling at Stone Barn Café
After our walk, we stopped at Stone Barn Café for a well-deserved coffee and slice of carrot cake. Nestled within the island's peaceful landscape, the café is much more than just somewhere to grab a bite to eat, in fact it was the local lady I had chatted to that had recommended this unique place to stop off during my walk.

Stone Barn Café is built around a strong ethos of sustainability, seasonality, and supporting local produce. The ingredients used in their dishes are grown on-site or sourced locally, creating a true farm-to-table experience that reflects the island's connection to the land. Because the menu changes seasonally, every visit is different, but what doesn't change is how each dish is created - with love. 

Sitting down with a freshly brewed coffee and homemade carrot cake (one of the best I have ever had) after a morning of exploring felt like the perfect reward. Knowing that the food is prepared using locally grown and seasonal ingredients only added to the experience. It’s the kind of place that encourages you to slow down, appreciate your surroundings, and enjoy the simple pleasures of island life. I also loved that we were welcomed by two dogs, who were chilling in the outdoor seating area, delighted to have a new furry friend to play with. 
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For visitors looking to experience Clare Island's food culture, Stone Barn Café is a must-visit stop during any trip to the island and their five course set menu (on certain days only) is a popular choice among locals and visitors alike.

​Why Clare Island Is One of the Best Dog-Friendly Places to Visit in Mayo
Finding dog-friendly destinations in Ireland isn’t always easy, especially when you want to combine sightseeing, walking, and places to eat. Clare Island ticks all the boxes for a memorable adventure with your dog.

Here’s why it is such a great dog-friendly destination:
🐾 Dogs can join you on the ferry
Unlike many island destinations where dogs are restricted (i.e The Beara Way or Bere Island in County Cork) Clare Island welcomes four-legged travellers on the ferry and the island.
🐾 Amazing walking opportunities
The island’s trails provide plenty of room for dogs to roam while enjoying stunning scenery. Once leashed, they can accompany you on walks around the island, happily sniffing to their heart’s content—a perfect way to tire them out!
🐾 A peaceful escape from the crowds
Clare Island has a much slower pace than many popular Wild Atlantic Way destinations. It is the kind of place where it feels as though time stood still, and I found myself imagining what life must have been like all those years ago when islands were more disconnected than they are today.  
🐾 Dog-friendly places to stop
Being able to enjoy a coffee or a snack break with your dog makes the experience even better. We even stopped at O'Malleys foodstore and post office for some snacks, and Gimli was kindly given a large bowl of water to enjoy with a view.
🐾 A true adventure together
From the ferry ride to exploring new landscapes, the entire experience feels like an adventure you can share with your dog.

​Tips for Visiting Clare Island with Your Dog

• Book Your Clare Island Fast Ferry in Advance

Clare Island is a popular destination, especially during summer weekends. Booking your ferry tickets ahead of time ensures you get your preferred crossing.

• Bring Dog Supplies

Although Clare Island has places to eat and drink, it is still a small island. Bring plenty of water, snacks, dog waste bags, and anything else your dog may need. There are bins around the island and a water tap at the campsite by the beach. My favourite dog essentials can be found here. 

• Wear Suitable Walking Shoes

It is always a good idea to wear comfortable walking shoes, especially if you decide to walk a long distance and if you decide to climb Knocknaveen Hill (223m), you should have good grip. 

• Check the Weather Forecast

Mayo’s weather can change quickly. Bring waterproof layers, even if the forecast looks good. I always pack a raincoat, swimwear and a warm layer in Ireland since you can have four seasons in one day. 

• Allow Enough Time

While Clare Island can be visited as a day trip, staying overnight would allow you to experience the island without rushing and enjoy its peaceful atmosphere once the day visitors leave. 

​Final Thoughts: Is Clare Island Worth Visiting with a Dog?
Absolutely. Clare Island is one of those places where the journey is just as memorable as the destination. From the scenic ferry crossing and fascinating history to the breathtaking walking trails and welcoming atmosphere, it offers everything I look for in a dog-friendly adventure.

For anyone exploring the Wild Atlantic Way with a dog, Clare Island is a hidden gem in County Mayo that deserves a spot on your itinerary. It’s a place where you can slow down, reconnect with nature, and create unforgettable memories together — exactly what travelling with your dog should be about.

Arriving at Carrownisky Strand in County Mayo was a last-minute decision. I had almost driven past the rural road leading to this beautiful stretch of coastline, but something told me to stop. Little did I know it would quickly become one of my favourite spots along the Wild Atlantic Way—for so many reasons.
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For those who’ve been following my journey over the past month, you’ll know my mission is to uncover the best dog-friendly experiences, destinations, and eateries in this popular region of Ireland to inspire others travelling with pets. After spending a few days at Carrownisky Strand, I can confidently say it’s a paradise for dog lovers. But it doesn’t end there—my time here ended up being life-changing in ways I never even anticipated.

Discovering Carrownisky Beach, Mayo
Located near Louisburgh in County Mayo, Carrownisky Beach is a beautiful stretch of golden sand backed by dramatic Wild Atlantic Way scenery. With views towards Croagh Patrick and Clare Island on a clear day, it is the kind of place that instantly reminds you why Ireland’s coastline is so special. It is also one of the reasons it is so hard to leave - especially if you are in a campervan.

It is also a fantastic spot for beginner surfers, in fact it is one of Mayo's (and the country's) best surf spots. The long sandy beach, manageable waves, and shallow water create the perfect environment for anyone stepping onto a surfboard for the first time.
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And for those travelling with dogs, Carrownisky is a fantastic addition to a Wild Atlantic Way itinerary. The wide-open beach provides plenty of space for dogs to explore, making it a place where both humans and their four-legged companions can enjoy the coastline.

While I had noticed that some other beaches along the Wild Atlantic Way allowed dogs only in the morning or evening during the peak summer season, what surprised me most was the complete freedom dogs enjoy at Carrownisky Beach.

Aside from a few signs reminding dog owners to clean up after their pets, there were no rules keeping dogs off the beach. It was refreshing to see, and the sight of dogs frolicking in the sea, living their best lives, made me smile from ear to ear. 

Feel the Fear and Do It Anyway
​I have always been drawn to the ocean. After years of travelling the world, living on the road, and chasing new adventures, you would think I would be fearless by now. But there was one thing that still made me nervous: being underwater in the sea, and there is a reason for this. 

A few years ago, while visiting Nepal, I had a terrifying experience when my boat capsized during a white-water rafting trip, giving me a deep respect for the power of moving water. Struggling against the fierce rapids that kept me submerged for what felt like hours, I finally managed to cling to a rock and use the last of my strength to climb to safety. From that day on, I was terrified to put myself in a position where I felt out of control in large bodies of water. 

When something inside me said it was time to face that fear head-on, I booked my first-ever surf lesson with Surf Mayo, known for their great reputation. I was thrilled, but also incredibly nervous. While others saw it as a fun activity in a stunning location, I wondered—could I truly relax in the waves and actually enjoy myself? What if I fell? Would I panic if my head went underwater? As it turned out, the reality was very different from the fears I had built up in my mind.

My First Surfing Experience at Carrownisky Strand
Arriving for my surf lesson, I watched other beginners taking to the waves and felt a mixture of excitement and nerves. Seeing that the lessons were taking place in relatively shallow water was reassuring. I knew I wasn’t heading straight into deep Atlantic swells—I was learning in a safe environment with experienced instructors.

After getting fitted with a wetsuit and carrying my board down to the beach, it was time to get started. The first challenge was learning the basics: how to paddle, how to position yourself on the board, and how to pop up quickly when a wave approached. Of course, there were plenty of moments where I ended up back in the water.

That’s just part of surfing. Falling off your board, or “wiping out,” happens a lot for beginners. Instead of feeling scared, I laughed and felt relieved to have it happen early on. It wasn’t as bad as I remembered—in fact, it was totally fine. Each time I fell, I climbed back on the board and gave it another go.
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The Moment Everything Changed
Then came the moment every beginner surfer waits for. The timing was right. The wave caught the board. The surfboard propelled forward. I pushed myself up, found my balance, and suddenly I was standing.
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For a few seconds, everything just clicked, exactly as my instructor Steve had been describing in the lead-up to this moment. The camaraderie within my group was incredible, with each of us shouting “whoo” as someone stood up and caught a wave—a feeling I couldn’t get enough of.
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The nervousness disappeared and was replaced by pure excitement and adrenaline. There is something incredibly rewarding about catching your first wave—not because you suddenly become a surfer, but because you realise you are capable of doing something that only hours earlier felt intimidating. It reminded me of the moment I truly grasped how to ride a motorbike with confidence, finally enjoying it fully without the constant worry.

By the end of the lesson, I had managed to stand up three times. Not bad for my first attempt! I left the beach exhausted, exhilarated, and already wondering if I should buy my own surfboard.

Surfing While Travelling With Your Dog
One of the things I love most about exploring Ireland is finding places where both humans and dogs can enjoy the adventure. Travelling with my Labrador, Gimli, has completely changed the way I experience destinations.

Instead of simply looking for the most famous attractions, I search for places where we can slow down, explore, and experience the outdoors together. Carrownisky Strand is exactly the kind of place that fits this style of travel. While I was learning a new skill in the Atlantic, Gimli could enjoy the beach, the fresh sea air, and the freedom of exploring one of Mayo’s beautiful coastal landscapes. What makes it even better is that the beach is campervan friendly, allowing you to park up and enjoy your surroundings with others travelling this route too. 

​Why Carrownisky Beach Deserves a Spot on Your Wild Atlantic Way Itinerary
Whether you are an experienced surfer, a complete beginner, or simply looking for a stunning dog-friendly beach along the Wild Atlantic Way, Carrownisky is worth adding to your route.

Reasons to visit:

• Beginner-friendly surf conditions
• Very affordable lessons with excellent intructors
• Wide sandy beach for walking and exploring
• Incredible Wild Atlantic Way scenery
• Dog-friendly environment
• Close to Louisburgh, Westport and Clare Island
• A perfect stop for adventure travellers

Info For Booking a Surf Lesson With Surf Mayo​
Prices per 2 hour lesson: 

• €25 (7-16 year olds)
• €35 Adults

• Prices include all the gear – surfboard, wetsuit & boots
• Small group sizes allow for tailored coaching (which I found so helpful)
• Completely beginner friendly, no experience needed
• Year round surf lessons (depending on surf conditions)
• Lessons run 7 days a week during peak season (June-Sept)
• Equipment rental is also available

​So, what are you waiting for? Maybe 2026 is the year you decide to learn to surf too! If I can do it, anyone can do it!