Visit the Inishkea Islands.
Hidden off the rugged coast of County Mayo, the Inishkea Islands are a breathtaking gem of Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way, steeped in history and untouched beauty.
The Inishkea Islands –
Oileán Inis Cé
Breath-taking scenery, unlimited adventures and legendary history and culture.
Rich in history and surrounded by crystal clear waters, breath-taking views and white sandy beaches, every corner of the Inishkea Islands are just waiting to be discovered. Just 5km off the coast of Belmullet, Co. Mayo, the Inishkea Islands await. Named after Saint Kea, these two spectacular islands—Inishkea North and Inishkea South—offer an unforgettable escape into raw, unspoiled nature.
Getting to Inishkea
Ferry Trips & Tours
Reaching the remote beauty of Inishkea is easier than you might think. Located off the coast of County Mayo, the islands are accessible by ferry from Blacksod Pier, Belmullet. Whether you’re planning a day trip or a longer stay, we’ll help you find the best way to get there.
About Inishkea
Heritage & History
The Inishkea Islands are rich in heritage, natural beauty, and quiet resilience. From early Christian sites to traditional stone dwellings, traces of the past are beautifully preserved in the landscape. Today, the islands are still home to part-time residents who help keep the spirit of Inishkea alive.
Inishkea Wildlife
Seabirds, Sealife & More
Inishkea is a sanctuary for seabirds, seals, and marine life. Puffins, terns, and grey seals thrive along the rugged shores, while dolphins and whales are often spotted offshore. With rich biodiversity and pristine habitats, Inishkea offers a rare chance to experience wildlife in a natural setting.
Step into the History of Inishkea
Uncover the Inishkea Island’s secrets, stories, and seafaring past in our latest blog posts.
Stories from the Edge of the Atlantic
A mix of island history and the latest news on all things Inishkea
Inishkea Whaling Station
History & Heritage
In the early 1900s, Norwegian whalers set up a whaling station on Rusheen Island, just off the coast of Inishkea South. Working with local islanders to process whale blubber, they transformed this remote outpost into a bustling site of maritime activity. Today, rusted boilers and scattered remains echo a rugged era of hard work and cultural exchange on the Atlantic’s edge.
Top Things to Do
Visiting Inishkea
The Inishkea Islands offer a unique mix of natural beauty and cultural heritage waiting to be explored. Walk among ancient ruins, visit early Christian sites, take in the wild Atlantic views and discover the island’s traditional and breathtaking stone dwellings. Whether you’re hiking, birdwatching, or simply soaking up the silence, Inishkea is the perfect escape.
Annual Beach Clean
Island Sustainability
Inishkea is a vital sanctuary for seabirds, seals, and marine life. Puffins, terns, and grey seals thrive along its rugged shores, while dolphins and whales are often seen just offshore. To help preserve this rich biodiversity, Belmullet Boat Charters (Inishkea Ferry) organises an annual beach clean up to protect Inishkea’s pristine habitats for generations.
Inishkea Islands 