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The Cliffs of Moher and the Aran Islands make for the perfect day trip along Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way. Traveling with a pet? You’re in luck—dogs are welcome on the ferry to any of the Aran Islands (Inis Mór, Inis Meáin, or Inis Oírr), and you can even enjoy a Cliffs of Moher cruise on your return journey with your furry companion by your side.
It’s the ultimate combination, in my opinion. I’ll share all the details in this article so you can plan a trip like mine—and trust me, you won’t want to miss it.
It’s the ultimate combination, in my opinion. I’ll share all the details in this article so you can plan a trip like mine—and trust me, you won’t want to miss it.
How to Visit Inisheer and The Cliffs of Moher With Your Dog
The Doolin Ferry Company is your go to operator for booking your dog-friendly day trip and they offer combination tickets to any of the three Aran Islands, depending on which kind of experience you're seeking.
This was not my first time sailing with The Doolin Ferry Company, in fact I took my first ever trip to Inishmore many years ago with my mum, and embarked on the Cliffs of Moher cruise a few years back too. This time round I was eager to find a dog-friendly way of exploring Inisheer - an island I had not yet explored and the cliffs by boat, and this seemed like a fantastic choice.
A few things to note when taking your dog on the ferry:
This was not my first time sailing with The Doolin Ferry Company, in fact I took my first ever trip to Inishmore many years ago with my mum, and embarked on the Cliffs of Moher cruise a few years back too. This time round I was eager to find a dog-friendly way of exploring Inisheer - an island I had not yet explored and the cliffs by boat, and this seemed like a fantastic choice.
A few things to note when taking your dog on the ferry:
- Make sure your dog is comfortable around groups, especially during peak season.
- It’s helpful if your dog has been on a boat before or is used to traveling.
- Always keep your dog leashed, and for stronger dogs like mine, add a harness too.
- Trust your judgment to decide if this is the right experience for you and your dog—some pups just don’t enjoy these trips, and that’s perfectly fine.
- Remember that some passengers may have a fear of dogs so keep your dog close and under control at all times.
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So Why Visit Inis Oírr?
Inis Oírr, the smallest of the three Aran Islands in County Galway, is reached by ferry from Doolin Pier in County Clare. After some research, I chose Inis Oírr for its reputation as a dog-friendly spot, complete with a looped trail dotted with landmarks to explore. On other Irish islands I’d visited, certain trails were off-limits to dogs due to livestock, but thankfully that wasn’t the case here.
What also caught my attention was that Inis Oírr appeared in the opening credits of the beloved Irish sitcom *Father Ted* as Craggy Island, and I couldn’t pass up the chance to see it in person. Like many of Ireland’s islands, it’s a Gaeltacht region, offering a great way to connect with Irish culture and history.
Although I grew up in Ireland, my Irish language skills are limited, so visiting places like this helps me reconnect with my heritage. All in all, it felt like the perfect place to spend a rare sunny day in the West of Ireland with my adventure-loving dog, Gimli.
What's more, Inis Oírr is well known for its main beach Trá Inis Oírr which has been awarded both the Blue Flag and Green Coast awards - only a handful of Irish beaches have received both. Given the beaches, culture and island setting, it's no wonder Inis Oírr is a popular place for a wellness retreat. But that will have to wait until next time.
Inis Oírr, the smallest of the three Aran Islands in County Galway, is reached by ferry from Doolin Pier in County Clare. After some research, I chose Inis Oírr for its reputation as a dog-friendly spot, complete with a looped trail dotted with landmarks to explore. On other Irish islands I’d visited, certain trails were off-limits to dogs due to livestock, but thankfully that wasn’t the case here.
What also caught my attention was that Inis Oírr appeared in the opening credits of the beloved Irish sitcom *Father Ted* as Craggy Island, and I couldn’t pass up the chance to see it in person. Like many of Ireland’s islands, it’s a Gaeltacht region, offering a great way to connect with Irish culture and history.
Although I grew up in Ireland, my Irish language skills are limited, so visiting places like this helps me reconnect with my heritage. All in all, it felt like the perfect place to spend a rare sunny day in the West of Ireland with my adventure-loving dog, Gimli.
What's more, Inis Oírr is well known for its main beach Trá Inis Oírr which has been awarded both the Blue Flag and Green Coast awards - only a handful of Irish beaches have received both. Given the beaches, culture and island setting, it's no wonder Inis Oírr is a popular place for a wellness retreat. But that will have to wait until next time.
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My Experience Visiting Inis Oírr with a Dog
A quick 15-minute ferry brought us to the main pier at Inis Oírr, where I first laid eyes on Trá Inis Oírr (Inis Oírr beach) and felt as if I’d been whisked away to the Caribbean. While dogs aren’t allowed on the beach between 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. (though outside those hours they’re welcome), I spotted a few locals enjoying the morning with their pups. After a quick splash for Gimli, we set off on a 7–8 km walk around the island to visit its iconic landmarks.
Not far from the main beach, a sign led us to a smaller, second beach—Poll na gCaorach—and it was pure magic. I tossed the ball for Gimli and took a dip myself; it was chilly, but not nearly as cold as I’d imagined. Refreshed, we carried on along narrow lanes bordered by intricate stone walls that seemed to shape the island’s very soul.
Every so often, a pony and trap carrying smiling tourists passed by, but it was just us and a lone donkey for company. We stopped to admire the weathered Plassy Shipwreck, grounded during a 1960s storm while hauling whiskey, stained glass, and yarn. The trail eventually brought us to the 15th-century O’Brien’s Castle, perched on a hilltop like a guardian watching over the town. After all that walking, I treated myself to some chips and a 99, sitting by the beach as the warm sun poured down.
The next part of our adventure took us back to Doolin Pier to drop off some passengers before heading out to see the Cliffs of Moher from the water. As someone who soaks up every bit of information (yes, I’m the one reading all the signs at attractions), I absolutely loved this guided cliff cruise. The friendly crew shared ancient stories, pointed out puffins, and explained the fascinating geology behind the creation of these towering cliffs. Even though I’d visited the cliffs before, this was such an incredible experience that once again reminded me how breathtaking our country truly is. In my opinion this was the best dog-friendly day trip I had done in a long time and the beautiful sunshine made it extra special.
What is the Best Time to Do This Trip?
For a dog-friendly trip to Inis Oírr and the Cliffs of Moher, I'd recommend late May, June, or early September. These months give you the best balance of weather, daylight hours, and ferry availability. Ferry services are at their most frequent during the peak summer season, with multiple daily departures from Doolin to Inis Oírr.
I went towards the end of June when Ireland was in the middle of a heatwave, and it was an amazing time to visit. The shoulder season is also perfect if you want to enjoy the sights without the crowds. As I mentioned, Ireland’s weather can be unpredictable, so a heatwave might happen outside the main summer months—and if it does, this is the best way to spend a sunny day along the Wild Atlantic Way.
A quick 15-minute ferry brought us to the main pier at Inis Oírr, where I first laid eyes on Trá Inis Oírr (Inis Oírr beach) and felt as if I’d been whisked away to the Caribbean. While dogs aren’t allowed on the beach between 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. (though outside those hours they’re welcome), I spotted a few locals enjoying the morning with their pups. After a quick splash for Gimli, we set off on a 7–8 km walk around the island to visit its iconic landmarks.
Not far from the main beach, a sign led us to a smaller, second beach—Poll na gCaorach—and it was pure magic. I tossed the ball for Gimli and took a dip myself; it was chilly, but not nearly as cold as I’d imagined. Refreshed, we carried on along narrow lanes bordered by intricate stone walls that seemed to shape the island’s very soul.
Every so often, a pony and trap carrying smiling tourists passed by, but it was just us and a lone donkey for company. We stopped to admire the weathered Plassy Shipwreck, grounded during a 1960s storm while hauling whiskey, stained glass, and yarn. The trail eventually brought us to the 15th-century O’Brien’s Castle, perched on a hilltop like a guardian watching over the town. After all that walking, I treated myself to some chips and a 99, sitting by the beach as the warm sun poured down.
The next part of our adventure took us back to Doolin Pier to drop off some passengers before heading out to see the Cliffs of Moher from the water. As someone who soaks up every bit of information (yes, I’m the one reading all the signs at attractions), I absolutely loved this guided cliff cruise. The friendly crew shared ancient stories, pointed out puffins, and explained the fascinating geology behind the creation of these towering cliffs. Even though I’d visited the cliffs before, this was such an incredible experience that once again reminded me how breathtaking our country truly is. In my opinion this was the best dog-friendly day trip I had done in a long time and the beautiful sunshine made it extra special.
What is the Best Time to Do This Trip?
For a dog-friendly trip to Inis Oírr and the Cliffs of Moher, I'd recommend late May, June, or early September. These months give you the best balance of weather, daylight hours, and ferry availability. Ferry services are at their most frequent during the peak summer season, with multiple daily departures from Doolin to Inis Oírr.
I went towards the end of June when Ireland was in the middle of a heatwave, and it was an amazing time to visit. The shoulder season is also perfect if you want to enjoy the sights without the crowds. As I mentioned, Ireland’s weather can be unpredictable, so a heatwave might happen outside the main summer months—and if it does, this is the best way to spend a sunny day along the Wild Atlantic Way.
Things to Know When Planning Your Day Trip to the Aran Islands
- The Cliffs of Moher cruise takes place on the return journey, so allow an extra 45 minutes for this. The ferry to Inis Oírr.
- Check the weather - this will really impact your experience, but Ireland is unpredictable so prepare for all conditions.
- There is paid parking at the pier, but get there early as it gets busy when the first ferry departs at 9am. There is also free parking along Fisher Street (about a 10 minute walk from the pier) but spaces are limited.
- Doolin Pier is around 15 minutes walk from Doolin village, so allow plenty of time.
- You wont need to print a ticket, just show your QR code when entering the ferry - dogs are free.
- The islands have facilities and amenities so finding food, water and bathrooms won't be an issue - Tigh Ned Pub has a lovely beer garden to sit and enjoy a pint or local dishes with your pup.
- Ferry services run from Feb 28th - Nov 1st 2026 (Sailing times can be found here)
- There are two looped trails on the island, we took the shorter of the two (the green arrow) which took in many of the highlights of the island. These are waymarked so there is no chance of getting lost.
Where to Stay in Doolin With a Dog?
- Doolin Village Lodges
- Nagles Camping and Caravan Park
- Other dog-friendly holiday homes and guesthouses in Doolin can be found here
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase through them.
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