Beaches, headlands, forts and waterfalls at the top of Ireland, plus where to try a surf lesson.
Things to Do in Inishowen
Things to Do in Inishowen
Inishowen is the top of Ireland and, according to people who live here, the best-kept secret in the country.
That's probably not true, since half of Europe drives the Wild Atlantic Way, but it does still feel quiet. Here's what's worth your time on the peninsula, from the sea to the hills.
Ocean activities in Inishowen
Start in the water. Ocean activities in Inishowen include surfing, wild swimming, and paddling, and the sea is the peninsula's main attraction.
Surfing is what we do, and you can try it with beginner surf lessons or adult surf lessons.
Wild swimming and surfing in Donegal make a good pair, as long as you check conditions and don't go in alone.
Beach Activities On The Peninsula
Inishowen beach activities range from long walks to sandcastle competitions. Tullagh Bay is a highlight, and there's more in our guide to the best surf spots in Donegal. Beach days work in all weather if you dress for it.
Five Finger Strand is a walk, not a swim. Rip tides make the water dangerous, but the dunes and the views make the walk worthwhile.
Malin Head And The Coast Road
Malin Head is the classic stop, at Ireland's most northerly point. Combine it with a drive around the Inishowen 100, the scenic route that loops the peninsula and passes most of what's worth seeing.
If you want to surf up there, see our page on surf lessons at Malin Head, Fanad and near Derry.
Outdoor Activities And Hidden Gems
For outdoor activities in Inishowen, Mamore Gap is the one for views: a twisting road up the Urris Hills with Lough Swilly and the Fanad peninsula spread out below. Kinnagoe Bay is a quieter beach with a story, since a Spanish Armada ship sank there in 1588. Glenevin Waterfall, near Clonmany, is a short walk through the woods.
The Grianán of Aileach, a stone fort on a hilltop, is worth the drive. It isn't strictly on the Inishowen 100, so add it in, and the car park is only a few minutes' stroll from the top. Other spots on the tourist trail include Fort Dunree, Doagh Famine Village and Buncrana Castle.
Inishowen hidden gems tend to be the ones without a car park, so ask a local.
Adventure Sports In Inishowen
Surfing is one of the main Inishowen adventure sports, and there's more variety around the county. Our Donegal adventure activities page covers the wider picture. If you're bringing the family, see our guide to kids outdoor activities in Inishowen.
One day or two in Inishowen
With one day, drive the northern loop from Buncrana: Mamore Gap, Glenevin Waterfall, Malin Head, then a walk on Five Finger Strand. That's a full day without rushing.
With two, add Fort Dunree, the Grianán of Aileach and Kinnagoe Bay, and leave a morning for a surf lesson.
Planning Your Inishowen Tourism Trip
Tourism on the Inishowen Peninsula has grown, but it's still easy to find space. Plan around the weather, leave time for wandering, and try a surf lesson while you're here.
If you'd like to stay longer, see our surf weekends and holidays, then book your lesson. Learn more about Inishowen Surf School or browse all our surf lessons in Ireland.
Frequently Asked Questions
The short answers to what visitors usually ask about Inishowen.
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Drive the northern loop from Buncrana: Mamore Gap, Glenevin Waterfall, Malin Head and a walk on Five Finger Strand. Add a surf lesson and you've filled it.
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Yes. The beaches, short walks and easy attractions suit children, and we run kids and family surf lessons and a summer surf camp. See our guide to kids outdoor activities in Inishowen for more.
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Two days covers the main sights without rushing. Three or four lets you add a surf lesson or two and slow down. Our surf weekends and holidays page helps with planning.
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Yes, but check conditions, tides and currents first. Swim with someone else and stay close to shore.