Kilkee, a picturesque seaside town on Ireland’s rugged west coast, sits along County Clare’s dramatic Atlantic shoreline, about an hour’s drive southwest of Ennis. When we visited, we immediately understood why Kilkee has been a beloved holiday spot for generations — its natural beauty feels both wild and welcoming. The town’s crescent-shaped bay, with golden sands and calm waters protected by reef formations, made for a peaceful stroll and a perfect spot to watch locals swimming in the famous Pollock Holes, natural rock pools that fill with seawater at low tide.
The real highlight, however, was walking the Cliffs of Kilkee, which, while lesser known than the Cliffs of Moher, are equally spectacular and far less crowded. The coastal loop trail took us along windswept paths with panoramic ocean views, where waves crashed powerfully against the jagged rock below. Each bend revealed another breathtaking vista — sea stacks, hidden coves, and seabirds gliding effortlessly in the Atlantic breeze.
Kilkee itself is small and charming, with friendly pubs, cozy cafés, and a relaxed atmosphere that encourages you to slow down and take it all in. A half day or even an overnight stay is ideal to enjoy both the cliffs and the village. Kilkee truly captures the untamed spirit of Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way.