My review of Ireland's Eye is a little biased considering the weather I got while here. So it's a small Island just a few minutes by boat from Howth harbour (so easily accessible from the city by DART). The Island has a nice beach, 7th century castle, Martello tower (climb up the rope to get inside!) and small cliffs that are popular with rock climbers. It's a perfect spot for a picnic and day out in the sun, you will not believe you are still in Dublin. OK, so lets talk about the ultimate way to see this island! On those rare calm days, don your wetsuit, grab a SUP (Stand Up Paddle board) and venture out from Howth harbour. Ok, so most of us can't just do that, but if a calm spell is coming contact the guys in Puremagic (Clontarf Rd). They are a super friendly group and they organise SUP lessons and SUParis around the Island. I went out on a SUP with Puremagic on a Friday evening and it was one of the most amazing things I've done in my 27 years in Dublin. As you approach the Island you will see curious seals starting to pop there heads out of the water. Before you know it you'll be surrounded by over 20 of them, some continued to follow us around the island. The side of the Island facing away from the coast is beautiful cliff face with large nesting bird colones. As I passed peacefully on my SUP just meters from the cliff face I could see thousands of birds flying, diving and skimming along the water. My favorite bird was the razorbill, they seem to struggle flying out of the water and spent most of the time skimming along on there belly, they looked like a cross between a penguin and a flying bird. There are also a few small caves along the cliff that a pretty cool to venture into. There is a sandy beach on the Island and when the tide is in there are a few spots from the rocks that provide a good spot for a bit of diving. So I've rambled, but I can not recommend SUPari around the Island more, so if you get the chance, DO IT! read more

Ireland's Eye - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Howth, D

If you ever fancy doing something different than hanging out in the pub, then why not head down to Howth and visit Ireland's Eye. Ireland's Eye is an inhabited island that is accessible during the warmer months by motor boat. The boat leaves from the main pier and the journey lasts 15 minutes or so. The island itself is a pleasure to explore. It is home to several different species of birds and seals. Anyone nature lover will enjoy hiking up and down its thorny trails. But avoid doing so if you're not dressed appropriately. I made the mistake of wearing flip flops and a skirt and I got scratched by every imaginable bush. I also nearly fell in a badger hole and got hissed at by the notoriously vicious animal. Besides hiking and animal watching, you can also suntan on the sandy shores and have a barbecue or picnic. However, last time I did this I was surrounded by rowdies. Still, the whole experience was quite an amusing adventure. read more