Keem Bay: Achill Island's Coastal Gem
Discover Keem Bay: Achill Island's stunning Blue Flag beach, dramatic cliffs, and rich history on Ireland's Wild Atlantic Way.
Keem Bay, a stunning horseshoe-shaped bay on Achill Island, County Mayo, is a must-see along the Wild Atlantic Way. Known for its pristine Blue Flag beach, dramatic cliffs, and turquoise waters, it offers a tranquil escape and breathtaking scenery.
A brief summary to Wild Atlantic Way Signature Discovery Point @Keem Bay
- Keel West, Co. Mayo, IE
- Visit website
Local tips
- Arrive early, especially during summer, as parking is limited and the beach can get crowded.
- Take the cliff-top walk from Keem Bay towards Achill Head for breathtaking views of the Atlantic coast.
- Check the weather forecast before visiting, as conditions can change rapidly.
- Bring appropriate footwear for hiking, as the trails can be steep and slippery.
- Visit during sunrise or sunset for the most stunning views and fewer crowds.
Getting There
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Driving
From Achill Sound, follow the R319 west towards Keel. Continue through Keel, following signs for Keem Bay. The road becomes narrow and winding as it climbs along the cliff tops, offering stunning views. Exercise caution and be prepared to meet oncoming traffic. Parking is available near Keem Beach, but it fills up quickly during peak season. Parking is free. Consider using the shuttle bus service from Keel during busy periods. Shuttle bus costs €5 return.
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Public Transport
From Westport, take Bus Éireann route 450 to Achill Island. The journey to Keel takes approximately 1.5 hours. From Keel, you can take a local taxi to Keem Bay, which is about 8 km away. The taxi fare is approximately €15-€18. Alternatively, during the summer, a shuttle bus service operates from Keel to Keem Bay for €5 return. You can also take the bus from Keel to Dooagh (Bus 450) and then a taxi from Dooagh to Keem Bay, costing approximately €12-€18.
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Walking
From Keel, it is possible to walk to Keem Bay. Head west from Keel village along the R319 road. The walk is approximately 8 km and takes around 1.5 hours. Be aware of traffic on the road. Enjoy the scenic views of the cliffs and ocean along the way.
Discover more about Wild Atlantic Way Signature Discovery Point @Keem Bay
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Achill Maritime History Trail Point No. 10
2.3 km
Explore Achill Island's maritime past at this scenic trail point near Corrymore, where history meets breathtaking coastal views.
Teach Cruachan B&B
4.2 km
Discover Achill Island's Wild Atlantic Way from Teach Cruachan B&B: Comfort, stunning views, and adventure await!
Achill Island Property
5.3 km
Experience the unspoiled beauty and rich heritage of Achill Island, Ireland's largest island, where adventure meets tranquility.
Achill Island Secret Beach
5.3 km
Discover Achill Island's best-kept secret: a remote beach with stunning scenery, rich history, and tranquil escape on Ireland's wild Atlantic coast.
Achill West Coast House
5.5 km
Experience coastal charm at Achill West Coast House B&B. Discover stunning views, cozy rooms, and easy access to Achill Island's beauty.
Achill Cliff House Hotel & Restaurant
7.5 km
Experience coastal bliss at Achill Cliff House Hotel & Restaurant: stunning views, local cuisine, and a perfect base for exploring Achill Island.
Slievemore
10.1 km
Hike to the summit of Slievemore on Achill Island for breathtaking panoramic views and a glimpse into Ireland's rich history.
White Cliffs of Ashleam
15.0 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Achill Island's White Cliffs of Ashleam, a dramatic coastal landscape along the Wild Atlantic Way.
Achill Cottages
17.0 km
Experience the beauty of Achill Island from the comfort of charming, highly-rated cottages in a serene coastal setting. Book your escape today!
Anvil House
17.9 km
Experience Achill Island charm at Anvil House B&B: Modern comfort, friendly service, and the perfect location for island adventures.
Granuaile Loop Walk
18.1 km
Hike Achill Island's Granuaile Loop for stunning coastal views, historical insights, and a memorable Wild Atlantic Way experience.
Achill Sound Hotel & Connaughton's Bar
18.1 km
Experience traditional Irish hospitality at Achill Sound Hotel, your gateway to Achill Island's beauty and adventure on the Wild Atlantic Way.
Achill Tourism Office (Achill Sound)
18.1 km
Your essential guide to exploring Achill Island: maps, tips, events, and local expertise for an unforgettable adventure on Ireland's Wild Atlantic Way.
Achill Island Hotel
18.4 km
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Achillbeg
19.6 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Beach at Keel West
0.2 km
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Moyteoge Head
0.8 km
Discover panoramic ocean views and historical ruins atop Achill Island's stunning Moyteoge Head, a Wild Atlantic Way gem.
Croaghaun Southwest Top
1.6 km
Discover Ireland's highest sea cliffs on Achill Island. Hike to breathtaking views and experience the wild beauty of Croaghaun's dramatic coastline.
Cliffs of Croaghaun
1.8 km
Explore the breathtaking Cliffs of Croaghaun in Co. Mayo, where adventure meets stunning natural beauty along Ireland's rugged coastline.
Hills upon Keel West
2.2 km
Discover breathtaking coastal views at Hills upon Keel West in Keem, Co. Mayo – a haven of natural beauty and tranquility on Achill Island.
Achill-henge
6.4 km
Discover Achill-henge: A modern-day enigma on Achill Island offering stunning views and a unique photo opportunity amidst Ireland's rugged landscape.
Ronan Halpin Gallery
6.5 km
Discover unique Irish sculpture and landscape paintings at Ronan Halpin Gallery, reflecting the beauty and spirit of Achill Island.
The Achill Experience Aquarium & Visitor Centre
7.7 km
Explore marine life and local history at The Achill Experience Aquarium & Visitor Centre on Achill Island, a must-visit for nature lovers and families.
Western Light Art Gallery
7.9 km
Discover art inspired by Achill Island's beauty at the Western Light Art Gallery, featuring paintings, photography, and sculptures by local and international artists.
Keel beach
8.0 km
Achill Island's Keel Beach: A stunning 3.5km sandy haven for watersports, swimming, and breathtaking views of the Minaun Cliffs.
Slievemore Deserted Village
8.4 km
Discover the haunting beauty of Slievemore Deserted Village in County Mayo, where history and nature intertwine for a unique travel experience.
Megalithic Tomb
9.6 km
Explore the ancient wonders of the Megalithic Tomb in Co. Mayo, a captivating historical landmark that reveals the secrets of Ireland's past.
Cathedral Rocks
9.8 km
Discover the breathtaking Cathedral Rocks in Co. Mayo, a natural wonder with stunning views and exhilarating hiking opportunities.
Seven-Circuit Classical Labyrinth
10.0 km
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Minaun Cliffs
10.4 km
Experience breathtaking panoramic views from the majestic Minaun Cliffs, one of the highest points on Achill Island along the Wild Atlantic Way.
Essential places to dine
Gielty's Bar and Restaurant
3.9 km
Experience authentic Irish cuisine and vibrant local culture at Gielty's Bar and Restaurant on Achill Island.
Lourdie's Pub
4.4 km
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Achill Head Hotel
6.0 km
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Joyce's Guesthouse
7.1 km
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.
7.2 km
Experience the warmth of Irish hospitality at Keel East Bar in Achill—where stunning views meet vibrant culture.
The Amethyst Bar
7.2 km
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BERVIE GUESTHOUSE
7.3 km
Experience unparalleled comfort and stunning views at Bervie Guesthouse, your perfect retreat on beautiful Achill Island.
The Currach
7.4 km
Experience exceptional dining at The Currach in Keel, Co. Mayo—where local flavors meet warm hospitality.
The Islander - Megs
7.4 km
Experience delicious fast food at The Islander - Megs in Achill, Co. Mayo; where local charm meets flavorful cuisine amidst stunning landscapes.
Ár Bia Mara
7.5 km
Experience exquisite seafood dining at Ár Bia Mara on Achill Island, where every dish celebrates Ireland's coastal bounty.
Pure Magic Achill Lodge
9.8 km
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The Cross
9.9 km
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Strand Hotel Dugort Achill Co Mayo
12.0 km
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Mickey's Bar
12.4 km
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Mastersons Bar and Restaurant
14.0 km
Experience authentic Irish cuisine at Mastersons Bar and Restaurant on Achill Island - where local flavors meet stunning coastal views.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Achill island kitchen @ Dooagh shop
4.6 km
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Achill Crafty Ladies
5.4 km
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The Fish Shop
6.6 km
Discover the freshest seafood at The Fish Shop on Achill Island, where local catches meet expert cooking tips for culinary enthusiasts.
Achill Island Pottery
7.0 km
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Beehive Crafts and Gifts
7.2 km
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Barretts XL
7.4 km
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Nicholson's Gala
7.4 km
Experience the local flavors at Nicholson's Gala, the charming grocery store in Keel East, Co. Mayo, perfect for tourists and locals alike.
The Top Drawer and Pantry
7.5 km
Discover local treasures at The Top Drawer and Pantry, Achill Island's beloved store for artisanal foods and unique crafts.
Calveys Butchers Achill
7.5 km
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Red Fox Press
12.7 km
Explore the artistic essence of Co. Mayo at Red Fox Press, a captivating gallery dedicated to beautiful book prints and local creativity.
Achill Island Distillery
13.9 km
Experience the rich heritage of Irish whiskey-making at Achill Island Distillery, where tradition meets breathtaking landscapes.
Achill Island Sea Salt
14.0 km
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Boreen Gallery
14.7 km
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Blásta Bikes
14.7 km
Experience the beauty of Achill Island on two wheels with Blásta Bikes, your premier bicycle rental service for scenic adventures.
Achill Island flowers
17.8 km
Discover the vibrant floral beauty of Achill Island at Achill Island Flowers, where nature's artistry flourishes amidst breathtaking landscapes.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Basking Shark Bar
7.2 km
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Lounge Bar
7.6 km
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The Compass Bar
20.6 km
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Munnelly's Bar Lounge
25.2 km
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Anglers Rest Bar And Restaurant
44.8 km
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Paddy Coynes Pub
44.8 km
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Blouser's Pub
47.8 km
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The Jester Bar
47.9 km
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Morans Pub
47.9 km
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The Old Grainstore Westport
47.9 km
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Mac Brides Bar
47.9 km
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Cosy Joe's
47.9 km
Cosy Joe's: A charming cocktail bar in Westport, offering creative drinks and a warm atmosphere for an unforgettable evening.
The Brewery
47.9 km
Experience the heart of Westport at The Brewery, a cozy bar offering local brews, live music, and a taste of Irish hospitality.
Walsh's
47.9 km
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Danny's
48.0 km
Experience the excitement of sports and the warmth of community at Danny's, Westport's favorite sports bar with delicious food and live entertainment.
