More and more people are gravitating towards the social media app for travel tips and advice from locals. Here are some of Ireland’s most unusual destinations that went viral on TikTok.
From secret underground waterfalls to visually striking bioluminescent plankton, these are Ireland’s most unusual destinations that have gone viral thanks to TikTok.
If you’re keen to get out and explore the Emerald Isle this summer, you’ll be spoilt for choice with fun adventures to suit all tastes and ages.
Still, if you want to get off the beaten track and discover something a little bit different, these unusual destinations might be just the ticket.
5. Inishkea (Inis Cé) Island, Co. Mayo – Ireland’s untouched ‘tropical’ island
You’ve probably heard of the Aran Islands and Achill Islands off the west coast of Ireland, but we bet you’ve never heard of Inis Cé.
This small island is located off the coast of Belmullet in County Mayo and remains somewhat of a hidden gem.
Boasting warmer temperatures than the mainland, thanks to its white sand beach that reflects the heat of the sun, many have dubbed the island ‘Ireland’s tropical paradise’.
Take the short 15-minute boat from Black Sod Pier, and witness Mayo’s incredible wildlife along the way, including dolphins, sea birds, and seals.
Once you get there, take a dip in the crystal clear water, relax on the beach, or explore the untouched and authentic Irish island.
4. Bioluminescent plankton at Lough Hyne, Co. Cork – swim in a sea of stars
Another one of Ireland’s most unusual destinations that went viral on TikTok is the incredible Lough Hyne in County Cork.
Known as Ireland’s magical glowing lake, this breathtaking natural attraction went viral for a unique natural phenomenon, whereby it literally glows after dark. But why is that?
This rare inland saltwater lake is connected to the Atlantic via a small channel. After the sun goes down, noctiluca scintillans (a type of plankton) in the lake get stirred up, creating electric-blue sparkles in the water.
A hotspot of biodiversity, visitors can take guided night kayak tours to see the unique natural attraction.
3. Dunmore Cave, Co. Kilkenny – a unique natural attraction with a dark history
A unique and fascinating limestone cave, Dunmore Cave’s frightening history and stunning surroundings captivated TikTok audiences with its eerie yet magical vibe.
Lit only by torchlight, this stunning natural attraction is located in County Kilkenny, costs five euros to visit, and offers a unique and fascinating history.
Make your way down 700 steps into the cave with a local guide and learn about the cave, which was once the site of a brutal Viking massacre.
2. Canty’s Cove, West Cork – a picturesque natural pool
If you hopped on the wild swimming craze that has overtaken Ireland in recent years, you might want to add the scenic Canty’s Cove in West Cork to your bucket list.
Located in Goleen, this picturesque cove boasts crystal clear blue waters set against a scenic backdrop of Irish cliffs and green grass.
Thanks to its secluded location, the small peaceful cove feels a million miles away from daily life. The perfect place for a summer dip, viral videos show how you can see directly to the sea bed as the water is so clear.
1. The ‘Vanishing Lake’ of Loughareema, Co. Antrim – Ireland’s own kind of magic
Claiming the number one spot on our list of Ireland’s most unusual destinations that went viral thanks to TikTok is the unique and fascinating Vanishing Lake of Loughareema in County Antrim.
This lake literally disappears overnight after heavy rain, draining through underground passages like a giant bathtub. Time-lapse videos showing the lake vanish got millions of views on the platform, with users joking, “Ireland’s Hogwarts magic is leaking.”
While the phenomenon can be explained logically, many locals say it’s haunted by the ghost of a drowned postman.
