Ireland

Family Fun at the Cliffs of Moher with Kids in Ireland

Cliffs of Moher with Kids: Our Sunset Visit and Planning Tips

Cliff views from our sunset visit · Scene from our film (18 sec)

▶Watch scene from our film 18 sec

Our sunset visit brought together the dramatic cliff views I had dreamed about and a very windy evening with the kids. Here are our family memories, along with current access checks to make before your own visit.

If you’ve ever seen a movie set in Ireland, you’ve probably seen its famous cliffs. In fact, movies are what drove us to these cliffs in the first place. I binge-watched The Princess Bride as a little girl every day for probably a year!  I will never forget the scene of them climbing up the cliffs, and when I found out they were in Ireland, we had to go.  One look at the photos, and my husband was also in for the ride.  He loves to take amazing photos.

When planning, I wasn’t sure about bringing kids to the cliffs. We enjoyed our visit, and I stayed close to them, but that personal experience is not a guarantee of safety. Check current access and weather conditions and keep children supervised on designated paths.

We landed in Ireland, spent the night, and then spent the entire next day getting to these cliffs.  We showed up right at sunset, and it was glorious.  Not only was it a golden hour, but all the other tourists had left for the day.  We had the place entirely to ourselves.  This did mean we missed dinner as all the restaurants close early, but it was well worth the sacrifice. Who doesn’t love the occasional convenience store dinner, right?!

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Watch our original related film on YouTube

That Ireland trip was broader than the cliffs. Four of us traveled while the other three children were in school. We also stopped at the Doolin Burial Grounds and the remains of Killilagh Church, then continued on to the Waterford Crystal visitor centre and Kilkenny Castle. If you’re planning your route, those are separate stops to consider alongside the Cliffs of Moher.

Why Visit the Cliffs of Moher with Kids

Apart from being beautiful, there are many reasons why you should visit the Cliffs of Moher with kids in Ireland.  For starters, many artists, painters, and writers have been inspired by these cliffs. Even movies, such as the scene from Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince, were once filmed here.

Also, it’s probably one of Ireland’s most iconic natural attractions!  Not just because of its beauty, but also because it’s part of the UNESCO Global Geopark, as this area has significant geological and ecological importance.  Why?  The cliffs appear to have been formed approximately 350 million years ago.  It’s home to many bird species and plants while showcasing six thousand years of human history.

History aside, these vast sea cliffs are something worth seeing in person.  They are approximately 700 feet above sea level and stretch five miles along the coastline. Can you imagine? Add that and the dramatic cliffside views, and you get perfect picture spots in every corner. 

My kids loved seeing the cliffs from several viewpoints.  They ran from one side to the other (literally) with me doing my best to slow them down and keep up. Thankfully, the cliffs are concave, meaning you can see them from one side or the other (unlike the Cliffs of Dover in England, which are really best seen from below in a boat).  This means the views are spectacular the entire time!

The wind was a bit crazy, but we ran around taking it all in. My kids loved the cows along the trail, the lighthouse, and the spectacular views.

If you are movie fans like us (Harry Potter fans) you will probably have a very fun visit.  We enjoyed visiting with our children, but there is no age or carrier that makes cliff paths automatically safe.  Just keep in mind that some paths can be a bit dangerous for your kids, and make sure to always keep them close.  I kept the kids close on our visit. Follow the designated paths and barriers rather than treating a fixed distance from a parent as a safety rule.

Best Times to Visit the Cliff of Moher in Ireland

In general, the best times to visit the Cliffs of Moher with kids are the shoulder seasons (think spring and fall), but this can be tricky with school breaks.  If you’re able to visit when it’s not peak season, take advantage of that!  We went in May, which was lovely. However, let’s break down the perks of each season.

• Spring:  This is probably the best time to visit the Cliffs of Moher.  The weather is warm and nice, the days are clear, and you can see all the flowers blooming, giving the cliffs a picturesque and colorful look.
  
  Also, during this time of year, crowds tend to be smaller compared to summer.  This helps if your kids can’t handle bigger crowds and allows you to take in more of this place in a peaceful way. 
  • Tip: Be sure to check out all the birds as they usually nest in the cliffs during this time.  We visited in May and it was perfect!  Not too cold, but definitely bring a jacket.

• Summer:  This season is probably the most popular time of the year for the Cliffs of Moher.  The weather is warm, making this time perfect for exploring the cliffs more comfortably.  Additionally, they have extended hours, closing at 9 p.m. 
  
  Just be aware that the cliffs can have bigger crowds compared to the rest of the year.  If you’re visiting this season, try to avoid midday crowds by visiting very early in the morning (you can arrive as early as 8 a.m.) or late in the afternoon.  Our sunset visit was beautiful, but check that your planned arrival is within current opening hours and suitable conditions.
  
• Autumn:  If you’re planning to visit during the months of September to November, then this is also a great time to do so.  The hot summer weather starts to drift, but it’s not yet super cold.
  
  Also, crowds are smaller, and you can watch the beautiful colors of fall, adding a magical charm to this place.  However, the days begin to shorten and rain may dampen things.

• Winter:  This is the least popular season as it’s when the weather is super cold and harsh (mostly cloudy days).  There is less daylight, so their opening hours are shorter, and there are fewer tour options.  Winter means you will not find that many crowds, as it’s mostly empty, but I would not recommend it as the weather may not be tolerable or great for kids.  

No matter the time of the year, if you’re looking for the best lighting, you can take advantage of early morning or late afternoons.  You can’t fully watch the sunrise, but during summer, you can catch a glimpse of the spectacular sunset views. 

Also, the day we went, it was very windy!  Make sure to keep your kids close, as some trails do not have any railing at all. Strong winds can make exposed paths hazardous even with supervision. Check conditions and closures before setting out.

Ticket Prices and Hours at Cliffs of Moher

Tour inclusions vary. Before booking, check transport, clifftop admission, any boat trip, and other stops separately rather than assuming one ticket includes them all.

1. Consider a boat tour for a view from the sea. Check the actual departure point, weather policy, child restrictions, and whether land stops such as Aillwee Cave are included. The old approximately $35 figure is not a current quote, and a boat trip is not automatically suitable for every age or swimmer.
2. Early access to the Cliffs of Moher: Check this product’s current start time, itinerary, admission, and age requirements. Our own cliff visit was near sunset; this is an option to research, not a sunrise tour we took.
   
3. Day trip that includes the cliff and other places like Doolin, Burren, and Galway: This is the option if you want to explore more than just the cliffs. Just be sure to pack enough for those days.

Opening hours vary by season; the usual hours below match the operator’s published schedule, but check the official site for your date and any closure notice. 

• From November to February, the Cliffs of Moher are open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
  
• In March, April, September and October, they are open from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.

• From May to August, they are open from 8 a.m. until 9 p.m.

The figures below are older guide prices, not verified current quotes or amounts we paid. Use the official booking site for your date, arrival time, age categories, and complete group price. Discounted online and gate prices can differ.

• Adults from €8

• Seniors, ages 65+ from €6

• Students, ages 13+ from €6

• Children: the current operator page says under 12 are free with an accompanying parent or guardian, subject to its booking conditions

• Family Ticket: 2 adults, 2 children from €16

Confirm the child allowance and supervision requirements in the current booking terms. Do not assume an old price list or family-ticket example covers every child in your group.

How to Get to Cliffs of Moher With Kids

Getting to the Cliffs of Moher in Ireland is not hard, as you have many options to choose from. Before you choose a transport option, consider how many people you’re traveling with.  

For example, it’s not the same to travel with two kids as with five kids.  Or it is also not always comfortable to travel in buses or subways when you have to bring a stroller.  Consider these factors before selecting your transportation option.

Driving:  This is perhaps the easiest and most comfortable way to get to the Cliffs of Moher.  This is what we did (we rented a car in Dublin), but remember you are on the OTHER SIDE OF THE ROAD! Driving on the left in Ireland takes some getting used to.

There is parking on site, and a drive from Galway can take about an hour and a half.  If you drive from Dublin, it’s a three-hour drive.  We drove straight from Dublin.  Driving on the other side of the road is an adventure (and kind of hard, honestly), so you may want to spread this over two days. 

If you choose to rent a car, just know that booking admission in advance does not guarantee a particular parking space. Check the official parking arrangements for your arrival.  Also, the parking lot is on the opposite side of the road from the visitor center.

Bus: The cliffs are in County Clare, not in Ennis. Route 350 links Galway, Kinvara, Doolin, the Cliffs of Moher, and Ennis. TFI Local Link also publishes route 351 between Galway and the cliffs. Check the current TFI information and dated timetables for stops and services; do not assume an old route summary is a departure schedule.

Bike: Yes, you read that right!  Did you know that the Cliffs of Moher made it into one of the top 10 greatest cycling routes in the world?  If you and your family are into cycling, you can take advantage of this beautiful route in the County Clare Coastline and enjoy this beautiful view.

Tours:  This is perhaps also one of the most convenient ways to get to the Cliffs of Moher with kids as a tourist.   Many tours offer transportation options from your destination, and they get you back to your hotel.  Plus, you get to hear amazing historical and fun facts to learn all you need to know about this stunning destination. Here are some tours you can find:

• Take a boat ride to the Cliffs of Moher and enjoy the views from a different perspective.
  
• Looking for something more exclusive? Take an early access to the Cliffs of Moher and the Wild Atlantic Way Experience.
  
• You want to explore more while in Ireland?  Maybe a longer day trip that includes the cliff and other places like Doolin, Burren, and Galway is the option you’re looking for!

Where to Stay Near Cliffs of Moher with Kids

You have options to stay near the Cliffs of Moher with kids (some hotels are as close as 30-40 minutes walking) or to stay in Galway, where you can take the bus or drive (as mentioned above). Anyway, here are some of the hotels you could consider during your trip to Ireland:

1. Cliffs of Moher Hotel:  What I liked about this hotel is that they have rooms so big, you have the possibility of having three beds in one room (around six people can fit)!  This hotel is small, but it’s pretty.  I loved the moody style, and they offer free parking in case you rented a car.  They can also keep your luggage, and the closeness to the Cliffs of Moher is just perfect!
   
2. Doolin Inn:  This hotel also has a moody style and very Irish accent decorations throughout the building. I like the location of this hotel because it has different food options at walking distance and it’s also near the cliffs. 
   
3. Leonardo Hotel Galway:  This hotel is not as close as the other ones mentioned above.  However the location is still good and has family rooms that allow up to 3 kids per room.  There are nearby restaurants, museums and beaches you can visit during your stay. 

What to Do at the Cliffs of Moher with Kids

The wind, the waves far below and the last light over the cliffs are what I remember from that evening. In the film, I am there with Harry and Grace; Chris is behind the camera. This was our four-person Ireland trip while the other three children were at school.

Current access matters: These are memories of our past visit, not a route or positioning guide. Check the operator’s coastal-walk updates, use designated open paths and keep children close. Older paths, barriers and aerial footage do not establish current access or permission to fly a drone.

Our family’s sunset views and walk back · Scene from our film (24 sec)

▶Watch scene from our film 24 sec

Once you arrive at the Cliffs of Moher, there are actually a few things you can do besides just admiring the cliffs (although I would not judge you if you just do that)! 

• Use the designated open viewing paths. Check the operator’s current coastal-walk safety notice: it reports closures on the southern route and no through access from Doolin to the Experience. Do not plan a full coastal traverse from this old guide or go beyond closure barriers.
  
• Visit the Visitor Centre.  Here you’ll find interactive exhibits about the cliff’s history, wildlife and its geological importance.  Plus, you’ll find a cafe and restrooms (perfect for taking a break, and if your kids need to use one).
  
• Go to O’Brien’s Tower for a better view.  Many tours include visiting this tower built in 1835.  It is an observation point and marks the tallest point of the cliffs.  It is worth seeing and a great photo spot for the family!
  
• Take time to watch some wildlife.  Something that I’m pretty sure your kids will love is that here you can see puffins, other seabirds and, depending on the time of year, dolphins!  You can’t miss staring at the sea and spotting some animals, your kids will love it!

• Take a boat tour to see the cliffs from the sea.  If everyone in your family can handle boats, then taking this tour is a must!  It gives you a different perspective of the cliffs as you get to see them from the sea, which makes them feel more impactful!
  
  This tour departs from Doolin Pier, takes you to Aillwee Cave, includes a guide and is suitable for people of all ages.  It costs around $35 USD per person.

What to Bring to the Cliffs of Moher

Your packing list may vary, as it all comes down to the time of the year you choose to travel. It can also vary depending on the ages in your group, babies need strollers or carriers but teenagers can use a small backpack!  However, there are still a few items you can pack all year round, like:

• Waterproof jackets:  Weather can change quickly at the cliffs; for any season, I would recommend bringing light waterproof jackets for women, men and all the kids!  Make sure they are light and easy to pack and fold for your backpack.
  
• Comfortable walking shoes:  You will be doing a lot of walking in the Cliffs of Moher, so make sure that everyone has good sneakers for walking, even the kids!
  
• Baby Carrier:  There are a lot of steps in the Cliffs of Moher, and some are steep.  So, be sure to bring a comfy baby carrier instead of a stroller, as it will be a bit hard to walk around with one.

• Light Backpack:  As a mom, I tend to carry most of the things; however, I try to make sure I’m bringing a small backpack (a reasonable and not too bulky one).  Just try to pack smart and if you can, buy your kids one so they can bring their essentials for travel!
  
• Refillable Water Bottles:  No matter where you go, it’s always smart to bring some water with you!  Especially if you’ll be doing a lot of walking, and trust me, you will walk a lot here.  So, pack a refillable water bottle for everyone in your crew.
  
• Binoculars:  Now, this is not really a must when travelling to the Cliffs of Moher, but if you’d like to do some bird watching, then you should definitely bring some!  This can be a very fun and enriching adventure with kids so I’d highly encourage you to bring some during spring.
  
• Sunscreen:  Summer tends to be hot, and there are not really that many trees here where you can get some shade.  So I’d recommend you bring sunscreen to protect all your family’s skin!
  
• Snacks for hiking:  Are you planning to spend most of your day here?  Then bringing a few snacks would be a great idea!  Your kids might get hungry or tired, so bringing a few snacks can help lift up their energy a bit.

Watch our wider Ireland trip with four Wayfinders

Our wider Ireland trip with four Wayfinders · Full film (8 min 35 sec)

▶Watch full film 8 min 35 sec

This older film follows Chris, Leslie, Harry and Grace around Ireland while our other three children were at school. The Cliffs of Moher are one stop; Doolin, Waterford and Kilkenny are separate parts of the wider trip. Upload dates are not visit dates. Older paths, prices and aerial footage are not current access, safety or drone-permission advice. Check the operator’s current routes and conditions before visiting.

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