A Day Trip to Arranmore Island in County Donegal: An Offbeat Adventure

Last updated on the 9th of March, 2026

The wild and rugged Irish Islands are a joy to explore.

They offer an adventure, an opportunity to slow down, and a tranquil escape from the mainland.

There are many islands off the coast of Ireland; some are tidal, some are connected by bridges, some are reachable by a cable car or a ferry, and others are so small you need to bring a kayak to grace their shores.

Arranmore Island is Donegal’s largest island, yet it is still very much a hidden gem for visitors to this part of the country.

It is an unspoiled and intensely beautiful place where wind and sea shape the land as much as it shapes the lives of the people who live here.

Read More: A Local’s Guide To The Best Things To See And Do In Bundoran, Ireland’s Surf Capital

Fishing boats in Bunport Harbour

While the island’s expansive vistas and experiences can transport you far beyond the landscape, life here isn’t for everyone.

Especially in the winter, when it’s not unusual to be cut off from the mainland for days due to brutal weather, but despite the challenges, the island has a way of rooting itself deeply in your soul.

It’s where you can feel the power and majesty of the natural world, from rolling hills, shorelines, lakes, and streams, and always an abundance of big sky.

The island’s main settlement is Leabgarrow.

It acts as the central hub for the island and serves as the main arrival point via the ferry from the fishing port of Burtonport. 

Here, you’ll find a range of facilities, including pubs, shops, and accommodation options.

Read More: How To Have a Fantastic Time Visiting Delightful Ards Forest Park in Donegal

Unexpected creature we found on the beach

History of Arranmore Island

The island has been inhabited since pre-Celtic times. In the past, the reliance on the sea was paramount, but today, remote work and tourism are the main pillars of the economy.

The island’s population is just shy of 500 people, but in the summer months, it more than doubles due to holidaymakers and students who come here to improve their Irish.

Emigration has been part of life on Arranmore Island for hundreds of years. Many who made the journey across the Atlantic settled on Beaver Island in the Great Lakes of the USA.

The Island is part of the Donegal Gaeltacht, and the majority of the island’s residents speak Irish.

Read More: Your Ultimate Guide to the Best Things to See and Do in County Donegal, Ireland

The ferry crossing is quite scenic

A Day Trip to Arranmore Island in County Donegal: An Offbeat Adventure

There are plenty of things to fill up your time on a visit to this captivating Irish Island.

I’ve put together everything you need to know to visit the island, including how to get there, where to stay, and what to do.

The birdwatchers can keep an eye out for fulmars and shags nesting on the rugged cliffs, while wildlife lovers can book summer boat cruises out into the Atlantic to spot grey seals basking on coastal rocks.

If you’d like to explore on foot, you can follow the signposted hike along the headland from the lighthouse for even more spectacular views of the Atlantic.

Read More: Your Ultimate Guide to Insanely Beautiful Wicklow National Park

Beautiful views during the ferry crossing

1 | Stop by Arranmore Lighthouse

Like all other lighthouses in Ireland, Arranmore Lighthouse is unmanned and automated.

While there’s no access to the lighthouse, you can still enjoy amazing views at the tip of the island and enjoy the scenery.

The white-washed lighthouse was used as a World War II post and helped to look out for U-boats.

is located at Rinrawros Point at the northwest corner of the island. It has been in existence since 1859, having replaced the original lighthouse, which was built in 1798 and decommissioned in 1832.

It also holds a significant connection with the USA, as it is where American Wayne Dickinson was found after his incredible journey from Boston to Arranmore in 1982.

Wayne crossed the Atlantic in his 8ft 9in boat, and after 142 days at sea, a storm swept him onto the rocks of Arranmore Island, where he sought refuge at the lighthouse.

Read More: Your Guide to Visiting the Beautiful Slieve League Cliffs in County Donegal

Arranmore Lighthouse

2 | Catch a Glimpse of Old Lighthouse Steps

If you are feeling brave, climb the 151 gravity-defying steps that lead from the lighthouse down to the battering sea below.

The route was originally built so goods could be easily transported to the lighthouse keeper, but today it is a major attraction for tourists visiting the island.

To reach the top of the steps, just follow the wall adjacent to the lighthouse that leads down the hill towards the sea cliffs.

Once you get to the end of the wall, you’ll see the narrow concrete walkway across the top of the cliff rocks.

*Good to know –  the steps can be dangerous and often slippery from their proximity to the water, so extreme care is advised

Read More: 8 Amazing Things To See And Do On A Trip Around Inishowen Peninsula, Donegal

The steep steps

3 | See the Beaver Island Monument

Beaver Island Monument is located at Lough Thoir and is a poignant reminder of those islanders who were forced to flee the island during the famine.

In the mid-1800s, the people who lived on Arranmore Island were very badly affected by the Irish Potato Famine.

To escape poverty and starvation, a large number of islanders moved across the Atlantic and settled on Beaver Island in Lake Michigan.

Read More: How to visit Glenveagh National Park in County Donegal: The Ultimate Guide

The Beaver Island memorial

4 | Embark On A Walk

There are very few places that are as untouched as Arranmore Island.

Simply walking around the island and taking in the incredible views across the shimmering waters is worth the trip.

While life on Arranmore has moved with the times, there are many parts of the island where it feels like a step back in time. Take your time, explore the random stops and beautiful views the island has to offer.

Several walks on Arranmore range from grand and handy to long and tough, depending on what you fancy.

If you’d like to explore a good chunk of the island, the Arranmore Island Loop is well worth heading off on. The walk is 14km in length and will take you 4+ hours, so make sure to dress appropriately and bring snacks and water.

Read More: Ireland Travel Guide: 12 Incredible Things To Do in Beautiful Galway City

The rugged cliffs near the lighthouse

5 | Relax on the Beach

You’ll find many beautiful beaches on Arranmore Island.

They are wild, and largely uncrowded sandy beaches and secluded coves, with Aphort and Leabgarrow being the most popular and accessible.

The islands’ pristine, white-sand beaches are ideal for walking, swimming, and exploring. Keep in mind that in Ireland, the water is often cold, rarely exceeding 15∘𝐶−18∘𝐶 in summer.

While people swim year-round, the main, warmer, and safer season is usually from June to mid-September.

Some of the best beaches on the island worth seeing are:

  • Cloughcorr Beach: Another lovely spot for swimming and exploring.
  • Leabgarrow Beach: Located near the ferry arrival point, this is a long white-sand beach, easily accessible and popular for families.
  • Aphort Beach: Situated on the south side of the island, this is a beautiful, crescent-shaped sandy beach, frequently visited for its scenic beauty.

*Safety Note: Visitors should always be cautious of tidal changes when exploring the shorelines. 

Read More: A Local’s Guide to Exploring Wonderful Caves of Keash in Sligo, Ireland

One of the islands’ beautiful beaches

Tips for Visiting Arranmore Island – Insider Information

Check opening days and times | before you embark on a drive, walk, or visit an attraction or eatery on the island; it is best to check whether it is open. Businesses don’t always update their info on Google, so I usually check their social media pages or give them a call.

Pack accordingly and plan for varied weather | Ireland has a reputation for ‘four seasons in one day’, and this can apply even more so on the offshore islands. Bring comfortable layers of clothing and a waterproof jacket.

Plan & book in advance | accommodation on the islands can be limited and high in demand, so it’s always wise to get ahead of the game for the best options and prices.

Travel Light | If staying overnight, pack light, as you will likely be carrying luggage on and off ferries and perhaps to accommodation.

Respect the Environment | Stick to paths, keep dogs on leads, and leave no trace.

Where to eat | After a busy day of exploring everything the island has to offer, you can stop for some food and a drink in Early’s Bar. There’s also great traditional music here most weekend evenings.

Consider an overnight stay to enjoy the quiet once day-trippers depart. 

Read More: A Fantastic 3-day Road Trip Around County Mayo For You to Borrow

The crossing from Burtonport to Arranmore Island

How to Get To Arranmore Island

The only way to access Arranmore is by ferry, which leaves from the port town of Burtonport in Northwest Donegal. The ferry takes foot and car passengers on a 5km journey across the Atlantic to the Arranferry ferry terminal.

The ferry journey from Burtonport to Arranmore Island takes around 15 – 20 minutes, and there are several crossings from Burtonport per day.

Ferry services to and from the island are more regular during the summer months, whereas during the winter months, they are less frequent.

When boarding the ferry, car passengers have to reverse their cars down the slipway at the port and onto the small ferry boat.

Burtonport is around an hour’s drive from Letterkenny and only 25 minutes from the beautiful Carrickfinn Airport, which operates flights from Dublin daily, which means it is not isolated.

Read More: Ireland Travel Guide: 9 Memorable Things To Do In Beautiful County Clare

Arranmore Island Ferry

Where to stay on Arranmore Island

We only visited Arranmore Island during a day trip, so we did not spend the night there. However, I leave you with some suggestions for accommodation:

  • Arranmore Holiday Village | situated one kilometre from the island’s ferry pier, the village features self-catering cottages.
  • Arranmore glamping | The double-glazed wooden pods are set in a peaceful setting and offer wonderful views over the coast. Each of the pods is decked out with a comfortable double bed, seating area, and a little kitchen corner with fridge, microwave, and all utensils.
  • Arranmore Island Hostel | located right on the beach, the hostel offers dorm rooms and private rooms. There is also a good-sized communal area with kitchen facilities and the benches outside to enjoy the wonderful Leabgarrow Beach.
  • The Glen Hotel |  Originally built in the mid 1800’s, the Glen Hotel is a family-run hotel, situated just 200 metres from the ferry pier. It features a dining room, a bar and comfortable rooms

Read More: Check Out This Amazing 2-week Road Trip Itinerary Through Ireland’s Southwest

Cosy pods at Arranmore Glamping site. Photo credit – Arranmore Glamping.

And there you have it

I hope you enjoyed reading about all my favourite things to do on Aaranmore Island and why I love it so much.

If you loved the look and the feel of the island, you can move to Arranmore Island, as it is still actively looking for new residents who would be keen to work remotely from this scenic location.

In 2019, after establishing Ireland’s first offshore shared digital workspace, Arranmore Island wrote letters to Americans and Australians encouraging them to move to Arranmore.

Arranmore Digital Hub provides high-speed broadband, videoconferencing facilities, dedicated meeting spaces and office spaces.

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Now, over to you!

Have you been to Arranmore Island? Let us know in the comments!

Let us know if you are planning a visit to Arranmore Island and have travel-related questions!

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74 thoughts on “A Day Trip to Arranmore Island in County Donegal: An Offbeat Adventure

    1. It is indeed a wonderful place for a retreat from the world and everything that is going on right now. Arranmore Island is windswept, rugged, and dripping with folklore and offers the kind of slow, soulful travel that’s hard to find anywhere else. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

      Liked by 1 person

  1. I know very little about Ireland’s coastal islands but Arranmore looks rugged, wild and breathtakingly beautiful. Those steep steps, just wow! I love the untouched feel to this place but can imagine it would be brutal in the winter months. Not sure I’d want to move there but a visit would be amazing. Thanks for taking me there virtually Aiva. Have a great week. xx

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Winter on Arranmore and the rest of Ireland’s islands is very challenging, often defined by extreme, wet, and windy weather, with storms frequently cancelling ferries and cutting off access. But in the summertime, they are perfect places to skip the crowds and enjoy tranquillity, history, and adventure. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

      Liked by 1 person

    1. Thank you kindly, dear Francisco. Arranmore Island is a perfect place where you can go hiking, wildlife watching, and relaxing.  The moment you step off a ferry, you can immediately feel like you’ve travelled back in time. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

      Liked by 1 person

  2. Wow, although I’d never heard of Arranmore Island, there’s so much to do, and it sounds like quite a romantic island, Aiva. The fact that only 500 people live on the island makes it very secluded. I love the glamping cosy pods – so cute.

    A great travel guide for Arranmore Island! Hope your week is going well. Nilla 🙂 x

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Thanks so much for your wonderful comment, dear Nilla. You would immensely enjoy exploring Ireland’s offshore islands. These islands aren’t just scenic detours — they’re living museums where traditional Irish culture thrives, where Gaelic is spoken at the local shop, and where the modern world feels wonderfully distant. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

      Liked by 1 person

  3. What a fantastic and inspiring guide to Arranmore Island, Aiva! My husband is a big fan of lighthouses (he’s read many books on them), and I know he’d love to visit Arranmore Lighthouse. I can almost see him in my mind’s eye trying to tackle those steps! I like the way you recommend uncrowded beaches, as I love being on the beach, but don’t necessarily like the crowds that go with them. It sounds like there’s some lovely secluded spots to find. Thanks for sharing! 🌷

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Ireland’s Islands are well worth the journey esecially as they offer a proper retreat from the modern world. We visited Arranmore on a sunny late spring day, and thus it was pretty easy to tackle those steep lighthouse steps. But I’d say it’s best to avoid them if the weather is bad. Your husband would love the lighthouse and the stunning views from it all the way across the glimmering waters. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

      Liked by 1 person

  4. Wow, this island is so beautiful! I can see why winter would be a tough season too. I am a Michigan Native and know where Beaver Island is, my dad and his dad used to go deer hunting there many years ago. It’s amazing that these people traveled so far and landed on a small island in Lake Michigan. Have a great week!

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Thanks so much for your wonderful comment. It made me look up what there is to see and do around Beaver Island in Michigan, and I have to say that it is a truly stunning place to visit. They even have a place called The Donegal Bay, just like we have one here in County Donegal, Ireland. You know, Arranmore Island is indeed beautiful, but it was quite heartbreaking to learn all about the famine and how overty drove large numbers of islanders from Donegal to the Great Lakes region, especially knowing that the journey itself was a long, multi-stage migration, often taking weeks. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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  5. What a lovely place! I’ve never heard of Wayne Dickinson or, as it happens, Arranmore Island. I can certainly see why it’s a draw, though. I’d love to walk down those stairs and hike the loop of the island, and then end my day in one of those glamping pods. Thanks for the tour of this hidden gem, Aiva!

    Liked by 1 person

    1. It was my first time learning about solo trans-Atlantic voyager Wayne Dickinson and his incredible adventure, too. It’s pretty amazing what he did. We only spent a day on the island, but I think it would be a very memorable experience to spend a night or two there and watch the sun dipping into the Wild Atlantic Ocean. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

      Liked by 1 person

    1. You would love Arranmore Island, dear Allan, because it offers a distinct, slower-paced vibe defined by dramatic, raw landscapes—ranging from white sand beaches to rugged cliffs—and a deeply rooted culture. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

      Liked by 1 person

    1. Your dad would have loved it, dear Marie 🙂  Life moves more slowly there, with noise limited to the wind and sea. It’s a great place for escaping the modern world. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

      Liked by 1 person

  6. What a beautiful island! You’ve got to be tough to live on an island, I don’t think I could do it. I don’t think I’d test my luck on those stairs either, but they are beautiful! Can’t imagine carrying goods up it.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Thank you kindly, dear Lyssy. Arranmore Island is a very beautiful but slightly less popular island than other Irish islands, thus offering visitors a truly unique Irish experience. In the summer of 2023, the Irish government offered new residents up to €84,000 to restore old houses and bring life back to windswept Ireland’s islands, but despite the initial buzz, the response has been more tempered than anticipated. While it is a very interesting scheme, life on a remote island is very hard. And I know what you mean about those steep stairs; it took me a while to gather the courage to climb all the way down. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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    1. Thank you, dear Hannah. Living on the island would be perfect for those seeking a slower pace of life coupled with breathtaking scenery and a strong sense of community. I think it would be pretty cool to wake up to the sound of waves crashing against rugged cliffs or sharing stories with neighbours under a canopy of stars. Spending a summer on the island has always been on my bucketlist. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

      Liked by 1 person

    1. Thanks so much for your wonderful comment, dear Bernie. It’s a wonderful island to explore. There’s the stunning natural beauty, as well as tight-knit community living. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

      Liked by 1 person

    1. Thanks so much. Arranmore Island is a great choice for a special holiday or break. Many islanders had an isolated and hard life, but this isolation also brought about a unique sense of community, and many islands became places that preserved ancient Irish traditions in song and culture. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

      Liked by 1 person

  7. It is incredible that people continue to live on islands, despite all the discomfort and being cut off from all the amenities of life on the mainland. It is a decision based more on passion than reason.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. I also find it fascinating that so many people still live on these remote islands, especially given that the islands can be rainy, remote and cold. I find that many people are happier in the moment in natural environments, and all natural environments are happier than cities. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

      Liked by 1 person

    1. It was pretty amazing to leave the manland of Ireland for a day and enjoy proper solitude on this little island, Tricia.  The sea was never far away, nor were the stunning cliffs. But it made me wonder what life is like when all that beautiful scenery is hidden by rain, the winter days are long and dark, and the winds reach 100 miles per hour. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

      Liked by 1 person

    1. I’ve stayed in a few pods and always loved it because not only are they frequently set in scenic, remote locations, such as woodlands, mountains, or by the sea, allowing for an immediate connection to nature without sacrificing comfort, but they also have a solid roof. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

      Liked by 1 person

        1. Prettymuch all the glamping pods I’ve stayed at featured private ensuite bathrooms equipped with a shower, toilet, and sink.  This, however, varies by type; basic pods may only offer electricity and heating, requiring you to use communal site bathrooms.

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    1. And I wouldn’t blame you, especially as parts of the steps are steep and the old handrailings are now gone, so you’ll need to take extra care. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

      Liked by 1 person

  8. What a lovely corner of Donegal! I love the quirky beaver island and the charming lighthouse. But my goodness, those old lighthouse steps would give me a fright. I can’t even imagine walking up and down those during a storm. County Donegal is always going to be a special place as so many of my ancestors came from that part of Ireland 🙂

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Before the trip, I’ve seen the lighthouse steps in various photos, but finally seeing them in person completely blew my mind. I can’t even think about how they were actually carved in the rock in the 18th century. It must have been a gruelling task for whoever did it. The good thing is that you can still see the steps and enjoy the stunning coastal scenery from the top of the cliffs, without the need to descend all the way down. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

      Liked by 1 person

    1. Staying in a camping pod is a wonderful experience because it offers a great and unique opportunity to experience the beauty of nature up close. Our time on Arranmore Island was a complete contrast to life in the city, and we loved it. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

      Liked by 1 person

    1. Thanks so much for letting me know. I didn’t know that. I looked up  ‘hairy caterpillars’ and indeed it turns out they have a distinctive defence mechanism, and their hairs can cause skin irritation or allergic reactions if touched. From now on, I’ll be wary. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

      Liked by 1 person

  9. What a wonderful read. I really enjoyed how you captured the rugged beauty and charm of the Island. Thank you for sharing such a detailed guide and beautiful photos. It definitely looks like the kind of place where you could slow down and really soak in the scenery. So so charming!

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Thank you kindly. With everything that’s going on in the world right now, it was so nice to just escape to an off-coast island and recharge. You would love Arranmore Island for its dramatic views and wonderful landscapes, and, of course, the famous lighthouse steps. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

      Liked by 1 person

  10. Arranmore Island looks like a great spot to enjoy the scenery and coastal views. I’m not sure I’d be brave enough to climb those steps from the lighthouse to the sea. Sounds like there’s a lot of great hiking options. Love the look of those cozy pods!

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Thanks so much, dear Linda. I find that the Irish Islands provide unique adventures, wildlife spotting and stunning, Caribbean-like white beaches. We haven’t stayed on any of the islands yet, but it would be pretty amazing to set up a tent somewhere along the rugged coast or even snuggle up in one of the cosy pods to enjoy peace and quiet. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

      Liked by 1 person

    1. Thank you kindly. The island was beautiful, and it felt like a world away from the mainland. We also had a sunny day for exploring its many sights, which only added to the experience. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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    1. I loved the Arranmore Lighthouse steps, and while at first, I wasn’t so sure about it, I eventually made it all the way down. The scenery and wildness of the sea at the bottom are just breathtaking. I could have sat all day if allowed. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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  11. Arranmore Island sounds very interesting, including the fact that most people there speak Irish. That makes me wonder how much of the population of Ireland can actually speak Irish. I’m always amused by how different words are pronounced compared to how they’re spelled in this melodic language.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Around 40% of the population in the Republic of Ireland has some ability to speak Gaelic. Today, Gaeilge is a core, compulsory subject in all public primary and secondary schools in the country, and my oldest one started learning it once she started school. I couldn’t help much with homework because I don’t speak it, but fortunately, there’s an essential online dictionary providing audio pronunciations in three main dialects. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

      Liked by 1 person

    1. It is indeed a truly wonderful place where you can disconnect from your busy life and reconnect with nature. We spent half a day just lounging in the warm sand on one of the stunning, remote beaches and had the best time ever. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

      Liked by 1 person

    1. I’ve had a chance to spend a few nights in glamping pods while exploring Scotland, and had the most amazing time because they provide a combination of the adventure of camping with the comfort of a solid, insulated structure. The pods are often located in unique spots, such as woodlands, near rivers, or on farms, providing beautiful views and a peaceful escape. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

      Liked by 1 person

    1. Ireland’s islands often offer a chance to experience a unique, slower pace of life, often described as a “quiet in-between” where the modern world fades away, but I don’t think I could live on one either. A long weekend would be sufficient. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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  12. It looks like a lovely place to stay a few days to get away from it all for sure. Very rugged and scenic. I wouldn’t like to negotiate those steep Lighthouse steps!

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  13. What an adventure! I’ve not been to Arranmore Island, but what stunning coastal views! One of these days, I’ll need to return to Ireland to check it out! Thanks for sharing, Aiva 😊

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