One Day in Portmagee Itinerary: Skellig Michael and More

Welcome to Portmagee, a charming fishing village on the Iveragh Peninsula along Ireland’s renowned Wild Atlantic Way. A quaint stop along the coastal route from County Kerry, Portmagee offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, Irish heritage, and adventure.

Portmagee ended up being one of my favorite places to visit on my trip to Ireland, and I’m so excited to tell you how you can also spend a perfect one day in Portmagee. Most travelers make their way to this adorable town on their Ring of Kerry road trip, and I hope you decide to spend the day there, too!

Stop 1: Start Your Day at Portmagee Marina

A Magical Morning in Portmagee

There’s something truly enchanting about mornings in Portmagee. The air feels crisp and fresh, with the scent of saltwater drifting in from the Atlantic. Fishing boats bob gently in the harbor, their brightly painted hulls reflecting off the glassy water. Seagulls fly above, their calls echoing across the marina as locals begin their day.

Start your morning with a visit to O’Connell’s Foodstore, a cozy shop in the heart of the village. This family-run spot is is a great place to grab a quick breakfast on the go and snacks for your Skellig Michael landing tour. Grab a flaky croissant (or two) to fuel up for the day ahead.

Preparing for Your Skellig Michael Adventure

Before heading to the marina, double-check your daypack. Here’s what you’ll need for the ultimate Skellig Michael experience:

Sturdy footwear: The ancient steps of Skellig Michael are steep and uneven. Good hiking shoes are a must.
A waterproof jacket: Irish weather can be unpredictable, with sudden showers even on sunny days.
Sunscreen and a reusable water bottle: The Atlantic breeze can be deceiving—stay hydrated and protect your skin.
Snacks: While you’ll have time for meals later, it’s a good idea to carry a granola bar or two for extra energy. We bought some delicious banana bread to take a long from O’Connell’s.

At the Portmagee Marina in the morning, there’s excited energy. Chatter fills the air as visitors gear up for their tours. Skippers and crew members prepare their boats for the day’s journeys, ensuring safety and comfort for all of their passengers. Take a moment to admire the colorful fishing boats while you gear up for your Skellig adventure!

Stop 2: The Boat Ride to Skellig Michael

Setting Sail on the Wild Atlantic

The highlight of your day is undoubtedly the boat tour to Skellig Michael, a dramatic and rugged island that rises steeply from the Atlantic. The journey begins with a 45-minute ride across the sea, where you’ll be treated to spectacular views of the Kerry coastline.

As the boat pulls away from Portmagee, you’ll notice the village shrinking into the distance, replaced by vast ocean views. The gentle rocking of the boat, the sound of waves crashing against the hull, and the cool spray of saltwater combine to create an exhilarating experience.

Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife. Puffins dart across the sky in flashes of black and white, while dolphins often playfully follow the boats. On rare occasions, lucky travelers have even spotted whales breaching in the distance.

Skellig Michael: A UNESCO World Heritage Site

As Skellig Michael comes into view, it’s impossible not to be awestruck. This rugged island, with its jagged cliffs and lush greenery, seems to rise straight out of the ocean.

If you’ve booked a landing tour, you’ll get step onto the island and go on an unforgettable journey up 618 ancient stone steps. These steps lead to a 6th-century monastery perched at the island’s summit. Built by monks seeking solitude and spiritual connection, the monastery’s beehive-shaped huts are still standing strong.

Standing atop Skellig Michael, you’ll feel a profound sense of history and isolation. It’s easy to see why early monks chose this remote location for their worship—it feels otherworldly.

For Star Wars fans, the experience is doubly special. Skellig Michael served as a key filming location for The Force Awakens and The Last Jedi, bringing Luke Skywalker’s island exile to life. Walking these ancient paths feels like stepping into a galaxy far, far away.

Pro Tip:
Take your time climbing the steps. While going up is a little demanding, the breathtaking views at the top are well worth the effort!

Stop 3: Lunch at The Moorings

A beloved restaurant in Portmagee

After your Skellig Michael adventure, you’ll likely be ready for a hearty meal. Back in Portmagee, head to The Moorings, a beloved Skellig restaurant that perfectly captures the essence of Ireland’s coastal cuisine.

The Moorings is famous for its seafood, and for good reason. The menu features locally caught fish, succulent prawns, and mouthwatering crab claws, often paired with fresh seasonal ingredients. Their signature seafood platter is a feast for the senses, brimming with flavors from the Atlantic.

Pair your meal with a pint of creamy Guinness or a refreshing glass of Irish cider. The cozy atmosphere and warm hospitality make The Moorings the perfect spot to recharge and reflect on your morning’s adventure.

Vegetarian Tip:
Not a seafood fan? No problem at all! The Moorings also offers a selection of vegetarian dishes, like creamy vegetable soup served with homemade Irish brown bread.

Stop 4: Explore the Kerry Cliffs

Ireland’s Hidden Gem in County Kerry

A short drive from Portmagee brings you to the Kerry Cliffs, a must-see destination on the Skellig Ring. These cliffs, often overshadowed by the Cliffs of Moher, are equally stunning but far less crowded.

Standing at the edge of the cliffs, you’ll be greeted by sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean. On clear days, you can see Little Skellig, home to one of the world’s largest gannet colonies. We were there on a rainy day, and it was still truly an awe-inspiring site to see.

Take your time walking along the well-maintained paths. The sound of crashing waves below and the sight of seabirds soaring overhead create a serene and almost meditative atmosphere.

Photo Tip:
If possible, time your visit for the golden hour! The warm light of the setting sun bathes the cliffs in a golden hue, making for incredible photos.

Stop 5: Dinner at Fisherman’s Bar

End Your Day with a Feast

Round off your day at O’Keefes Fisherman’s Bar, a cozy and welcoming seafood restaurant in the heart of Portmagee. Known for its hearty Irish fare, this spot offers a perfect blend of comfort and flavor.

The menu highlights fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Their seafood chowder, packed with tender chunks of fish and creamy broth, is a favorite among visitors. For a more substantial meal, try their signature seafood platter or the fisherman’s pie.

Vegetarians will also find delicious options here, like seasonal vegetable pies or flavorful soups served with homemade bread.

Fisherman's feast at O'Keefes Fisherman’s Bar. Plate full of variety of seafood. — Fisherman’s feast at Fisherman’s Bar. SO incredibly good!

As you savor your meal, take a moment to soak in the atmosphere. The soft hum of conversation, the clink of glasses, and the gentle strains of traditional Irish music create a relaxed and inviting vibe.

Optional Stops: Beyond Portmagee

Valentia Island

If you have time, consider a visit to Valentia Island, just a short drive or bridge crossing from Portmagee. This island offers a fascinating mix of natural beauty and history. Highlights include:

Geokaun Mountain and Fogher Cliffs: Panoramic views of the Skelligs, Dingle Peninsula, and beyond.
The Tetrapod Trackway: Fossilized footprints dating back over 350 million years.
Knightstown: A charming village with colorful buildings and a lively harbor.

The Skellig Ring Road

Rural road in Ireland on the Skellig Ring

For a scenic drive, take the lesser-known Skellig Ring Road. This loop around the Iveragh Peninsula is one of Ireland’s most breathtaking routes, featuring hidden beaches, ancient ruins, and stunning coastal vistas.

Where to Stay in Portmagee

After a day of adventure, you’ll want a comfortable place to unwind. Here are some great options:

View from the Skellig Sunrise Portmagee B&B

Budget-Friendly B&Bs

Ocean View B&B: Cozy rooms with friendly hosts and spectacular ocean views.
Skellig View Sunrise Apartment: Affordable and perfect for watching the sunrise over the Atlantic.

➤ Book Skellig view apartment B&B

Mid-Range Comfort

The Moorings Guesthouse: Stay right where you had lunch at the Moorings Guesthouse, with harbor views and easy access to the marina.

➤ Book the moorings guesthouse

Private Rentals

Portmagee Village Apartments: Ideal for families or groups, offering modern amenities and extra space.

Frequently Asked Questions about Portmagee

What’s the best time to visit Portmagee and the Skellig Islands?

The ideal season is between May and September, when boat tours are most reliable. If you’re a wildlife enthusiast, visit before mid-August to see puffins on Skellig Michael. They leave the island after that!

Can you stay overnight on Skellig Michael?

No. There are no accommodations on the island. Visitors typically stay in Portmagee, Valentia Island, or nearby towns like Killarney and Dingle.

How long does a Skellig Michael tour take?

Plan for at least 5–6 hours, including the boat ride and time spent on the island.

Why Portmagee is a Must-Visit

Best known as the gateway to the iconic Skellig Islands, including the world-famous Skellig Michael landing tours, Portmagee is a destination that captivates nature lovers, history buffs, and Star Wars Trilogy fans. This small fishing town is a perfect day trip and will leave you breathless with its stunning views, incredible food, and kind locals.

Portmagee is a must-visit if you’re in the County Kerry area in my experience. I hope you enjoy this itinerary for your very own perfect one day in Portmagee.

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