One of the most picturesque corners of the Emerald Isle, County Kerry is home to plenty of beautiful sights to see, some well-known and some virtually undiscovered.
Known as the Kingdom County, it is no secret that Kerry is home to a vast wealth of scenic beauty, charming towns, and picturesque nature spots. There are plenty of iconic sites you simply can’t miss, but today we’re revealing County Kerry’s best-kept secrets.
From towering mountain ranges to sweeping coastlines, County Kerry is renowned across the globe for its epic natural scenery and vast allure.
Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast or want to soak up the true Irish history and culture, there are plenty of reasons to visit.
So, if you’ve already been to Killarney National Park and the Ring of Kerry and want to venture off the beaten path, we’ve got you covered. Here are County Kerry’s best-kept secrets, featuring ten places you need to visit in 2024.
10. Derrynane House and National Park – the ancestral home of Daniel O’Connell
Home to 1.5 km (0.9 mi) of sandy and rocky shoreline, Derrynane House and National Park is certainly one of County Kerry’s best-kept secrets.
Set on the Ring of Kerry, this spot is often overlooked by visitors in favour of more well-known attractions. However, as the ancestral home of Daniel O’Connell, we think it’s one spot you simply can’t miss as it boasts so much history and natural beauty.
Address: Darrynane More, Co. Kerry, Ireland
9. Brandon Creek – a picturesque village on the Dingle Peninsula
A small village on the Dingle Peninsula, Brandon Creek truly is as picturesque as they come. Home to a small enclosed bay, you can take in some of the most beautiful coastal views the west of Ireland has to offer.
If you have an interest in Irish history, you’ll be keen to know that it is believed that Saint Brendan the Navigator sailed from Brandon Creek on his voyage into the western ocean.
Address: Brandon Creek, Ballycurrane, Co. Kerry, Ireland
8. Coomakista Pass – for beautiful Irish scenery
Descending down to the historic village of Caherdaniel, Coomakista Pass is a picturesque location on the Ring of Kerry that is often overlooked in favour of the route’s more well-known locations.
However, Coomakista Pass is one location you really can’t miss. Boasting epic views over Ballinskelligs Bay, Waterville, Derrynane National Park, and the coast of Cork, you’ll be blown away by what you witness here.
Address: Rocky Valley Dr, Carrigoona Commons East, Kilmacanoge, Co. Wicklow, Ireland
7. The Black Valley – an epic valley drive
Often passed by on the way to or from the famous Gap of Dunloe, the scenery of Ireland’s beautiful Black Valley is nothing short of breathtaking.
Located at the southern end of the Macgillycuddy’s Reeks Mountain Range, you’ll be blown away by the natural beauty that abounds in this remote and scenic valley.
Address: Eirk, Co. Kerry, Ireland
6. Caragh Lake – perfect for a dip
Set at the foot of the beautiful Macgillycuddy’s Reeks Mountain Range, the beautiful Caragh Lake is the perfect place to enjoy magnificent views of the breathtaking nature that Kerry is well-known for.
Often overlooked in favour of the Killarney Lakes and the beautiful beaches of Kerry’s coast, Caragh Lake is the perfect place for a secluded and quiet dip in the water.
Address: Glounaguillagh, Caragh Lake, Killorglin, Co. Kerry, Ireland
5. Ballycarbery Castle – perfect for fans of Irish history
Located close to Cahersiveen, Ballycarbery Castle is set high on a grass hill looking out over the sea. A perfect spot for fans of Irish history, this place is certainly one of Kerry’s best-kept secrets.
The ruins that stand today were constructed in the 16th century. However, there is evidence of a castle on the site as early as 1398.
Address: WPXR+P6, Ballycarbery East, Bosses Point, Co. Kerry, Ireland
4. Valentia Island – one of Ireland’s most westerly points
Lying off the Iveragh Peninsula, Valentia Island is one of the most westerly points in Ireland. Reached by bridge or ferry, this island is incredibly geologically rich, with plenty to discover.
While here, you can enjoy epic sunsets, explore the famous Valentia Island lighthouse, and discover the scenic Geokaun Mountain and Fogher Cliffs.
Address: Valentia Island, Co. Kerry, Ireland
3. Glenbeigh – a beautiful town with plenty to see and do
A quaint village situated on the Iveragh Peninsula, Glenbeigh is home to a beautiful beach that was named among the best in Europe.
Much quieter than popular towns such as Kenmare and Killarney, Glenbeigh is the perfect quiet base from which to explore the wider surroundings of County Kerry.
Address: Glenbeigh, Gleann Beithe, Kilnabrack Lower, Co. Kerry, Ireland
2. Ballinskelligs Beach – one of Kerry’s most beautiful beaches
A hidden gem just off the main Ring of Kerry on the southern side of the Skellig Ring, Ballinskelligs Beach is a breathtaking spot that you simply cannot miss.
A Blue Flag Beach that is ideal for swimming, you can relax on the sand or take a dip in the cold Irish waters.
Address: Ballinskelligs, Baile an Sceilge, Co. Kerry, Ireland
1. Coumeenole Beach – a breathtakingly beautiful hidden beach
Topping our list of Kerry’s best-kept secrets that you need to visit in 2024 is the beautiful Coumeenole Beach, which is located on the Dingle Peninsula.
With strong currents and jagged cliffs, this is not the spot for swimming. However, the surrounding views of the majestic cliffs, the crashing waves, and the Blasket Islands make this a spot you won’t want to miss.
Address: Coumeenoole North, Co. Kerry, Ireland
