Cliffs of Moher

The Cliffs of Moher rise sheer from the Atlantic along the coast of County Clare, a dark wall of rock stretching eight kilometres and reaching over two hundred metres at their highest. Battered by waves and wheeling with seabirds, crowned by O'Brien's Tower, they are the most famous cliffs in Ireland and a highlight of the Wild Atlantic Way.

Highlights

• The cliff-edge path - the walkway along the top with the Atlantic far below.
• O'Brien's Tower - the old viewing tower near the highest point.
• Seabirds - the puffins, guillemots and other seabirds nesting on the cliffs in summer.
• The wider coast - the views to the Aran Islands and Galway Bay on a clear day.

When to go

Late spring to early autumn for the mildest weather, seabirds and clearest views; the cliffs are dramatic in any weather, and storms are spectacular but wild. Early or late avoids the coach crowds.

Things to know

It is extremely popular, so the visitor centre and paths are busy in season. The unfenced cliff edges are genuinely dangerous, especially in wind, so keep to the path and behind barriers. On 1 August 2026 the official site listed the southern section of the coastal walk, from Liscannor to the visitor centre, as fully closed for safety; from the north the walk was open from Doolin only as far as Surfers Path, and an 800-metre stretch north of O'Brien's Tower had reopened. Check the current status before planning the longer cliff walk. Fog and rain often hide the view, so a clear day is a bonus.

Nearby

The Burren limestone landscape is inland; Doolin village and the Aran Islands ferries are close.

Key facts