One of my earliest and most memorable adventures in Ireland was discovering all the incredible things to do in Mayo.
I still remember the peaceful isolation of Achill Island, where the landscape felt almost otherworldly. But the moment that truly stayed with me was watching the sunset at Downpatrick Head, the golden light hitting the cliffs and the sea stack of Dún Briste rising proudly from the Atlantic.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through the best things to do in Mayo, from famous landmarks to hidden gems waiting to be explored.
Things To Do In Mayo
Visit The Doolough Valley
Tucked between the Mweelrea Mountains and Sheeffry Hills, Doolough Valley is one of the most hauntingly beautiful places in Mayo.
The drive through the valley is nothing short of breathtaking—steep mountains rising on either side, still lakes reflecting the ever-changing sky, and a winding road that feels like it leads straight into the heart of the wild west of Ireland.
Explore Croagh Patrick
Known locally as “The Reek,” Croagh Patrick isn’t just a striking part of the landscape—it holds deep cultural and spiritual significance. For over 1,500 years, pilgrims have climbed its slopes in honour of Saint Patrick, who is believed to have fasted at the summit for 40 days.
Today, climbing Croagh Patrick is one of the most popular things to do in Mayo, whether for religious reasons, personal challenge, or simply to experience the incredible views.
Visit Downpatrick Head
Standing at Downpatrick Head feels like being on the edge of the world. Located just north of Ballycastle, this windswept cliffside is one of the most visually striking places in Mayo.
The star of the show here is Dún Briste, a dramatic sea stack that rises 50 metres above the Atlantic Ocean. Beyond the sea stack, Downpatrick Head offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic, blowholes, rugged cliffs, and a World War II lookout post.
Check out my detailed guide to Downpatrick Head for more information.
The Céide Fields
If you’re looking to connect with Ireland’s ancient past, a visit to The Céide Fields is one of the most fascinating things to do in Mayo. It’s a place that reveals how Ireland’s first farmers lived, worked, and shaped the land long before written history began.
What makes the Céide Fields so incredible isn’t just their age, but how they were preserved. Beneath layers of blanket bog, archaeologists discovered a vast network of stone walls, field divisions, and the foundations of ancient homes.
The Mullet Peninsula
For anyone looking to get off the beaten path, the Mullet Peninsula in northwest Mayo is a must-visit. This rugged, windswept stretch of land juts out into the Atlantic, offering some of the most untouched coastal scenery in Ireland.
The Mullet Peninsula isn’t crowded or flashy, but its quiet beauty and strong sense of place make it one of the most rewarding things to do in Mayo, especially if you’re interested in kayaking, surfing, and birdwatching.
The Great Western Greenway
If you’re looking for an active way to experience Mayo’s natural beauty, the Great Western Greenway is an unbeatable choice. The Greenway is perfect whether you’re cycling, walking, or even running.
There are plenty of spots to stop and take in the scenery, grab a bite in quaint cafés, or dip your toes in the sea. Plus, since the route ends at Achill Island, you can combine the Greenway with exploring the island’s beaches, cliffs, and hiking trails.
Tourmakeady Woods
Nestled near the village of Tourmakeady, these ancient woodlands offer a refreshing break from busy life and a chance to reconnect with nature.
The trails here are gentle and well-maintained, ideal for walkers of all ages and experience levels. They also offer picnic spots and quiet corners to simply sit and take it all in.
Take a drive to Westport
The beauty that this place beholds goes without saying as it is considered to be one of the most known tourist attractions in Mayo. There are so many fun activities and unusual places to visit here. The fabulous food, majestic historical sites, and fantastic water activities make this place a must-visit.
Westport’s nightlife is also lively without being overwhelming, offering plenty of authentic Irish music sessions, craft breweries, and fresh local food.
Check out my list of things to do in Westport for more information.
Visit Ashford Castle
Ashford Castle, set on the shores of Lough Corrib near Cong, combines rich history with luxurious hospitality.
There’s a forest park near the castle known as Cong Wood. It has a lot of walking trails, and you can also practice fishing in the lakes here.
Explore Achill Island
If you’re looking for something adventurous, this is one of the best things to do in Mayo. The beautiful view with a surf paddle makes it a heavenly place to explore. Along with surfing, you can also enjoy water activities like kayaking and diving.
You will also get to know a lot about the historic tombs here. So grab your swimsuit and drive over the bridge to visit Ireland’s largest island and have a good time here.
Visit Ballycroy National Park
It is Ireland’s sixth National Park and is located on the Western seaboard in northwest Mayo. It is a 15,000-hectare wilderness dominated by the Nephin Beg mountain range. The park has other significant species like heath, upland grassland, and river catchments.
It is also home to fauna like Golden Plover, Red Grouse, and Otters. It is an exceptionally cheerful tourist attraction in Mayo when you want to spend some time with your family for a day or a half.
Visit Keem Beach
If you’re after a picture-perfect coastal escape, Keem Beach on Achill Island is one of the standout things to do in Mayo. This stunning, sheltered bay is famous for its crystal-clear waters, soft golden sand, and dramatic surrounding cliffs that create a breathtaking natural amphitheatre.
Keem Beach feels like a hidden paradise — perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or simply soaking up the wild Atlantic atmosphere.
Explore Moyne Abbey
Tucked away in the quiet countryside near Killala, this 15th-century Franciscan monastery stands in remarkable condition, despite centuries of weathering and abandonment.
Unlike more touristy spots, Moyne Abbey is often blissfully empty, perfect for slow exploration, photography, or simply reflecting in peace.
Enjoy the sunrise at Keel Beach
Extending 3 km to the cliffs of Minaun, this beach is famous for all kinds of water activities. Professional surfers who cannot resist themselves on a sunny day will not afford to miss this perfect place.
With its wide, open sands and rolling Atlantic waves, it’s one of the most accessible and popular beaches on the island.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is Mayo best known for?
County Mayo is best known for its dramatic natural beauty, including Croagh Patrick (Ireland’s holy mountain), Achill Island with its scenic beaches and cliffs, and the rugged Wild Atlantic Way. It’s also rich in history and culture, featuring ancient sites, traditional Irish music, and vibrant towns like Westport.
What to do in Mayo when it’s raining?
When it’s raining in Mayo, there are still plenty of indoor attractions to enjoy. You can visit the National Museum of Country Life near Castlebar, explore the historic Westport House, or relax in one of the many cosy cafés and traditional pubs. Art galleries, local craft shops, and wellness centres also offer great rainy-day activities.
What is the biggest town in Mayo?
The biggest town in County Mayo is Castlebar. It serves as the county town and offers a good mix of shopping, dining, cultural venues, and transport links.
Conclusion
From scenic hikes to historic sites and cosy indoor spots, Mayo offers unforgettable experiences no matter the weather or time of year.
I hope this information will be helpful for your trip there. If you plan to visit here, I would love to hear about your experience.
