Select this option to go and come back to Inis Oirr in the SAME DAY
Island Guide
Inis Oirr (Eastern Island) is only a 20 minute ferry journey from Doolin. There are many attractions to be found here – ancient castles, a shipwreck, a lighthouse, one of Ireland’s most beautiful beaches, a modern playground and several fine pubs and cafes. The 3 pubs all serve good, local food and traditional Irish music can be heard on a daily basis.
There are a number of ways to see the island while you are there. You can walk along the many quiet roads, rent a bicycle on the island, or take a guided tour in one of the pony & traps or tour buses.
Inis Oírr (translates as “Eastern Island”) – closest island to Doolin
Size: 3km by 2km; Population: 260 approx
The confirmation email on your mobile phone or a printout of your confirmation email
Change for Pay and Display Parking at Doolin pier:
€1 for 2 hours
€5 for 2- 30 hours
€15 for 30 hours - 1 week
Comfortable clothing and shoes
Raincoat (just in case!)
Check in at Garrihy's Doolin2Aran Ferries Office on Doolin Pier. Look for the Crew in the blue shirts for assistance.
Inis Oírr (translates from Oirthir meaning “Eastern Island”) – the smallest of the three Aran Islands
The island enjoys a good tourist trade, mainly from Doolin, as it is only a 30 minute ferry across from here. There are many attractions here for both day-trippers and people who want to visit for longer.
Transport Options
Inis Oirr also has a good selection of transport options:
Eat & Stay
Inis Oirr has a number of places for it’s visitors to enjoy good local food, from locally caught and sourced seafood, to the freshly baked brown bread made each and every day.
There is also a good number of Bed & Breakfasts on the island, as well as a hotel, guesthouse, campsite and hostel. If you would like more information on accomodation on Inis Oirr, please contact us and we will be happy to help.
Historical Sites
Stone Fort – Dun Formna, built near the highest point on the island, contains O’Brien’s Castle within it’s wall
Churches – Cill Gobnait, Cill na n-Seacht Inion and St. Caomhan (St.Kevin’s) Church, the latter is a spectacular ruin, located in the graveyard on Inis Oirr. Over the years, sand has been blown in and around the church to make it appear as if it has sunk into the ground.
Recent History – The Plassey Shipwreck is a famous landmark on Inis Oirr, she wrecked here in March 1960. Read more about it in our Blog.
Arts Centre – Aras Eanna is the only Arts Centre in the Gaeltacht. Throughout the year therare exhibitions and workshops hosted here. See their comprehensive website for more information.