Explore
North Kerry Drive Route
The Cliff Coast Drive is a scenic road trip through North Kerry, connecting Atlantic beaches, dramatic cliffs, historic castles, the Shannon Estuary and characterful towns and villages.
From Tralee Bay to the Shannon Estuary, the route reveals a quieter side of Kerry, linking coastal landscapes with rich heritage and local experiences. Discover Banna Strand, Ballyheigue, Ballybunion, Bromore Cliffs, Ballylongford, Carrigafoyle Castle, Tarbert, Listowel and more along the way.
There is no right place to start and no set direction to follow. Begin in Tralee, Ballybunion, Tarbert or anywhere along the route, then explore at your own pace. Coming from County Clare? Take the Tarbert–Killimer Ferry across the Shannon Estuary and begin your North Kerry road trip in Tarbert.
Start anywhere. Stop often. Discover more.
Discover the Places Along the Way
Tralee
Tralee is a lively market town with a rich history and strong cultural character, set between the Slieve Mish Mountains and the shores of Tralee Bay. Its museums, historic sites, parks, cafés and local food scene reflect the character of Kerry's largest town, while just beyond the town, wide views across Tralee Bay towards Fenit and the mountains mark the beginning of the coastal journey.
Fenit
The coastal village of Fenit is known for its working harbour, sandy beach and strong maritime heritage, with beautiful views across Tralee Bay. Look out towards Fenit Lighthouse standing offshore, explore the marina and coastline, or enjoy the changing views towards the Slieve Mish Mountains. Fenit is also a popular spot for sailing, kayaking, walking and other coastal activities.
Banna Strand
Stretching for kilometres along the Atlantic coast, Banna Strand is one of North Kerry's most spectacular beaches. Its wide golden sands, dunes and uninterrupted ocean views make it a beautiful place for a walk, a paddle or simply watching the Atlantic roll in.
Ballyduff
Surrounded by green countryside, Ballyduff offers a quieter glimpse of North Kerry away from the main coastal destinations. This welcoming village provides a change of pace on the journey, where rural landscapes, local life and traditional Kerry scenery take centre stage.
Ballyheigue
Ballyheigue combines the character of a traditional seaside village with a long sandy beach backed by the foothills of the Slieve Mish Mountains. It is a place to slow down, enjoy the coast and take in wide views towards the Atlantic.
Ballybunion
Ballybunion, the coastline becomes more dramatic. It's sandy beaches, towering cliffs and Atlantic views, walk along the coast or discover the remains of Ballybunion Castle.
For another spectacular coastal experience, make time for Bromore Cliffs, where dramatic rock formations and open Atlantic views create one of North Kerry's most striking coastal landscapes.
Ballylongford
Don't simply pass through Ballylongford.
The village sits beside the Shannon Estuary and is home to Carrigafoyle Castle, one of North Kerry's most impressive medieval landmarks. The castle's position overlooking the estuary makes it a memorable stop on the route and connects the coastal journey with Kerry's history. Nearby Littor Beach offers a peaceful coastal escape, with open skies, wide estuary views and a rich variety of birdlife to discover. It’s a special place to slow down, reconnect with nature and simply take in the quiet beauty of the Shannon Estuary.
Tarbert & the Shannon Estuary
Tarbert, where the Atlantic journey meets the Shannon Estuary. For visitors travelling from County Clare, the Tarbert–Killimer Ferry provides a direct connection between Clare and North Kerry. The ferry crossing makes Tarbert a natural gateway to the Cliff Coast Drive and an alternative starting point for your journey. Explore the harbour, enjoy the estuary views and discover Tarbert's maritime character before continuing through North Kerry.
Listowel
Listowel is a historic North Kerry town with a deep literary tradition, rich heritage and a lively cultural spirit. Wander its streets, browse independent shops, cafés and local places to eat, and discover the stories that have shaped the town. Known as a home for writers, poets, artists and storytellers, Listowel has a creative energy of its own — one you can feel as you explore, meet people and take in the character of the place.
Finuge
Finuge is a small village with a strong connection to music, storytelling and North Kerry tradition. Known as the home of songwriter Seán McCarthy, its cultural spirit lives on through local music, community gatherings and the annual festival held in his honour.
Top must things to see in North Kerry Drive
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I do the Cliff Coast Drive from County Clare?
Yes. The Tarbert–Killimer Ferry connects County Clare with North Kerry across the Shannon Estuary, making Tarbert an easy gateway to the route.
Is the North Kerry Drive Route part of the Wild Atlantic Way?
Yes. Parts of the North Kerry Drive follow or connect with sections of the Wild Atlantic Way, including the coastal areas around Fenit, Banna Strand, Ballyheigue, Ballybunion and Tarbert. The Cliff Coast Drive brings these coastal experiences together with inland towns, heritage sites and landscapes across North Kerry.
What can I see around Ballylongford?
Ballylongford is one of the route's key heritage stops. Visit Carrigafoyle Castle, a medieval tower house overlooking the Shannon Estuary, and continue to Littor Beach for a quieter coastal experience and estuary views. Ballylongford is also know for best birdwatching places.
How long should I allow for the North Kerry Drive?
You can explore selected sections in a day, but allow longer if you want to stop at several beaches, coastal viewpoints, heritage sites and towns along the way. Taking your time is part of the experience.
Plan Your Itinerary
Discover things to see and do along the way with the map below.
