Things to do in Kenmare for kids
Looking for fun things to do with the kids in Kenmare? Look no further! This charming town on the southwest coast of Ireland offers a variety of family-friendly activities that will keep your little ones entertained and engaged.
Whether you’re interested in wildlife spotting, boat trips, outdoor adventures, or unleashing your child’s inner artist, Kenmare has something for everyone. Read on for our top picks for things to do in Kenmare for kids!
Family fun with Seal-Spotting in Kenmare Bay
Spotting seals in their natural habitat is a thrilling experience kids will love! Kenmare Bay is home to a colony of friendly seals, making it an ideal destination for families with children.
Seal-Spotting tours run daily, and knowledgeable guides will provide interesting commentary on the wildlife and surrounding landscape.
Be sure to bring binoculars to get a closer look at these adorable creatures!
Kids will love the chance to observe seals basking in the sun or playfully swimming in the bay. It’s the perfect activity for nature-loving families!
Horseback riding adventures at Dromquinna Stables
Looking for a unique adventure that your kids will never forget? Look no further than Dromquinna Stables! Here, kids can feel like cowboys and cowgirls as they ride through the stunning Kenmare countryside on horseback.
Even if your child has never ridden a horse before, the friendly and experienced staff at Dromquinna Stables will make sure that everyone feels safe and comfortable.
Don’t forget to take some memorable photos of your child on their trusty horse! It’s a great way to capture the magic of this unforgettable experience.
Kayaking and paddleboarding with Emerald Outdoors
Looking for an exciting water adventure for your kids? Look no further than Emerald Outdoors! Kayaking and paddleboarding are great ways for kids to stay active while having fun exploring the beautiful Kenmare Bay.
Emerald Outdoors provides all the equipment you’ll need, so just bring your sense of adventure and be ready to get wet! They also offer experienced guides who can show your family the best spots to paddle and explore.
Before you head out on the water, be sure to pack sunscreen, water, and a change of clothes. And don’t forget to take plenty of photos of your kids paddling and enjoying the beautiful scenery!
- Equipment provided
- Remember sunscreen and water
- Take photos of your adventure!
Let your children experience the world of art at Maria Hernandez Art Studio
Expose your children to a diverse range of art styles and techniques at Maria Hernandez Art Studio in Kenmare. This art studio is the perfect place for your children to unleash their creative side in a supportive and encouraging environment.
The art classes at Maria Hernandez Art Studio cater to children of all ages and skill levels and are designed to help them develop their own unique sense of creativity. Your child will learn a variety of techniques and skills that will help them bring their imaginations to life on canvas.
She encourages children to express themselves freely and without judgment, helping to boost their confidence and self-esteem.
You’ll be amazed at how quickly your child’s confidence in their artistic abilities will grow and how they will proudly display their own original artwork. As a souvenir, you can take home a beautiful piece of art created by your child.
Exciting water sports at Kenmare Star Outdoors
Star Outdoors Kenmare offers a variety of thrilling water sports that are sure to get your kids’ hearts pumping!
- Family Kayaking trip: A great way to explore the stunning natural surroundings of Kenmare Bay, kayaking is a fun activity for kids of all ages. Star Outdoors Kenmare offers guided trips for families who want to experience the bay’s beauty up close.
- The Gauntlet: Your kids will love this obstacle course! Perfect for groups, The Gauntlet has everything from rope walls to balance beams to keep your teenagers entertained and active.
- Paintball: A thrilling activity for older kids and teenagers, Star Outdoors Kenmare’s paintball course is a great way to build teamwork and strategy skills while having fun!
- Become a Pro Archer: Your kids will feel like Robin Hood as they learn the skills of archery from professional instructors. This activity is great for developing hand-eye coordination and focus.
See my webpage on Star Outdoors here.
A day of traditional Irish farm life at Molly Gallivan’s
Molly Gallivan’s Traditional Irish Farm offers visitors a chance to experience authentic Irish farm life and history. This family-friendly attraction is filled with interesting and educational activities that kids will love.
Explore The Traditional Farm
Your kids will love exploring the farm buildings and seeing traditional Irish farm animals like sheep, pigs, and ducks. They can learn about the different tools and equipment used on the farm and how they are used to care for the animals and crops.
If your family is lucky enough to visit during one of the farm’s special events, you may get to experience traditional Irish music, dancing, and storytelling – all part of the rich cultural heritage of this beautiful country. See my webpage on Molly Gallivan’s Traditional Irish Farm here.
Explore the scenic beauty of Derrynane Beach
Derrynane Beach is one of the most picturesque beaches in Ireland, with its golden sands and crystal-clear waters. It’s the perfect place for families to spend a day soaking up the sun and enjoying the great outdoors.
With its Blue Flag status, Derrynane Beach is also a safe place for children to swim (between the lifeguard flags) and play.
There are rip currents in the bay so don’t swim where there are no swimming signs. Pack some beach toys and games to keep your little ones entertained while you relax on the soft sands or take a dip in the water.
Visitors can also explore the Derrynane House and National Historic Park, which was once the residence of Daniel O’Connell, the famous Irish politician.
Learn about the history of the area and its people, and see how Irish aristocrats lived in the 19th century. See my webpage on Derrynane Beach here.
Discover local history at Bonane Heritage Park
Bonane Heritage Park is a must-visit attraction in Kenmare for families interested in learning about the rich history of the area. The park is situated on a picturesque site overlooking the Sheen River and includes several fascinating attractions for visitors to explore.
Ring Fort
One of the main attractions at Bonane Heritage Park is the Iron Age Ring Fort. This impressive circular structure dates back over two thousand years and is a testament to the advanced engineering skills of the ancient Celts who built it.
The park also includes a stone circle, standing stones, a fulacht fiadh, and other interesting relics of ancient Irish culture.
Eclipse Ireland
If you’re looking for a thrill, head over to Eclipse Ireland for an exciting day of adventure. Kids will love challenging themselves with archery skills, raft-building, and more! They have accommodation on their property
- Archery Skills: Let your kids test their aim with a bow and arrow! With guidance from experienced instructors, your child will improve their accuracy and have a blast doing it.
- Raft Building: Teamwork is key as your family works together to build a sturdy raft out of barrels, planks, and ropes. Once it’s complete, it’s time to take it out on the water and see if it floats!
- Kayaking: A great way to explore the stunning natural surroundings of Kenmare Bay, kayaking is a fun activity for kids of all ages. Eclipse Ireland Kenmare offers guided trips for families who want to experience the bay’s beauty up close.
Eclipse Ireland is the perfect place for an action that your kids will never forget! See my webpage on Eclipse Ireland here.
Take a Bike Ride
If you and your family love to explore new areas by bike, then Kenmare is the perfect place for you! With many scenic bike paths available, you can take in the breathtaking views of mountains, lakes, and forests as you pedal along.
Be sure to pack plenty of snacks and water for your adventure, as well as sunscreen and bug spray if needed. Don’t have your own bike? No problem! You can easily rent bikes for the day from one of the many local bike shops in town.
For a fun twist on a traditional bike ride, consider renting a tandem bike! This is the perfect activity for parents with younger children who may not be as confident on their own bikes yet.
So why not spend a day in Kenmare enjoying the fresh air and beautiful scenery as you and your family take a leisurely bike ride through this charming town?
Kissane Sheep Farm
If your kids love animals, a visit to Kissane Sheep Farm is a must-do activity in Killarney National Park!
A family-run farm where you can interact with the cute and friendly sheep. The owners give a guided tour and share the history and culture of sheep farming in Ireland.
Watch the trained dogs herd sheep, and your kids can bottle-feed the adorable lambs. You can also adopt a sheep if you want.
It’s a perfect place to experience countryside life and learn about the community’s values and traditions. Kids will return home with lasting memories of this fantastic adventure.
Get up close and personal with predators at Falconry Kerry
If your child loves animals, then a visit to Falconry Kerry is a must. Located outside Killarney, you and your child can learn about the different types of birds of prey while also experiencing the thrill of watching them fly and hunt.
The knowledgeable staff will guide you through the experience, and your child can even get a chance to hold and have pictures taken with the birds.
It’s a great opportunity for your child to learn about the importance of conservation efforts for these birds, and to gain a new appreciation for these amazing predators.
The falcons, and owls at Falconry Kerry will leave your child in awe, and it’s an experience they won’t soon forget.
Have a picnic at Reenagross Park
Reenagross Park is the perfect location for a family picnic while enjoying the scenic beauty of the park. There are plenty of areas to choose from, whether you prefer a secluded spot or a picnic table.
Take a stroll along the nature trails and observe the abundant wildlife in the area. If you’re lucky, you might even spot a red squirrel. The car park is in Kenmare golf course
Make sure to bring a blanket and your favorite snacks and drinks to fully enjoy the experience. Reenagross Park is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, so be sure to arrive early to secure a good spot.
Make chocolates with Lorge Chocolatier
Indulge your sweet tooth and learn about the art of chocolate making at Lorge Chocolatier in Kenmare. This family-run business creates unique chocolate creations using only the finest ingredients. Here’s what you can expect:
- Experience the joy of handcrafting your own chocolates with top-quality ingredients: Put on an apron and get ready to create your own chocolate masterpieces under the guidance of an experienced chocolatier.
- Get creative with different flavors and designs for your chocolates: From classic milk chocolate to exotic flavors, there’s something for everyone.
- Take home your delicious chocolates as a sweet souvenir: Once your chocolates have hardened, you can pop them into a beautiful box to take home and share (or keep them all to yourself!).
This experience is perfect for chocolate lovers of all ages and is a great way to spend the day with family or friends.
Visit the Playground
Looking for a way to let your kids burn off some energy and have some fun? Look no further than the Kenmare playground! This family-friendly playground is small and includes a slide.
Parents can relax on nearby benches while watching their little ones play. There’s also plenty of open space for kids to run around.
So bring your kids to the Kenmare playground for some outdoor fun and family time!
Conclusion
Kenmare is a haven for families seeking to bond through fun outings. From spotting seals in Kenmare Bay to unleashing their creativity at Creative Kubs and Maria Hernandez Art Studio, and learning to make chocolates at Lorge Chocolatier, your family is bound to have a memorable time.
So, pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready for an unforgettable family adventure in Kenmare!