10 Tips for Doing the Cliffs of Moher with Kids

Tips for Doing the Cliffs of Moher with Kids

The Cliffs of Moher is Ireland’s most visited natural attraction and should be on your Ireland itinerary. These dramatic works of nature rise over 700 feet at the highest point and span five miles over the Atlantic Ocean. We rented a house in Doolin so we were near the cliffs and they didn’t disappoint. Kids will love to see the cliffs and as long as you’re careful, it’s a perfectly safe activity to do together. The following are 10 tips for doing the Cliffs of Moher with kids:

WEAR SENSIBLE SHOES

There are loose rocks, patches of mud, and dirt paths for you to walk on so you’ll want to wear sensible shoes. Hiking boots are ideal but sneakers are fine. I would avoid flip flops and shoes with heels.

STEEP HILLS

Be prepared for steep hills because it is a bit of a walk uphill. There are no railings or paved paths.

DISCUSS SAFETY RULES

Talk to your kids about the importance of following safety rules. No running, staying next to a parent, and staying away from the edge should be followed at all times.

STAY ON THE PATH

There are two ways to walk up and down the hill. The first is from behind a cement barrier that goes up to your hip and the other is adjacent to the edge. We went back and forth between the two depending on how wide it was at that section.

AVOID THE EDGE

Don’t sit on the edge. You would think that would not be something you would have to say since it is a 700- foot drop onto rocks and water, but you will be shocked to see how close people sit to the edge. Is a good Instagram picture really worth your life? People are nuts! There are plenty of spots where you can safely sit and have it look like you’re close to the edge.

BRING WATER

You may want to bring some bottled water with you. The only place to buy water at the cliffs is in the restaurant and in the café. When we were there we were so thirsty but there was a line out the door to get water. Make sure you take your empty water bottles out with you so you don’t ruin the beauty of the cliffs.

POKE INTO THE SHOPS

There are several cute shops right next to the cliffs including a music shop, jewelry store, and three souvenir shops.

TRY OUT THE RESTAURANT

There is a restaurant on site. (link the menu) We didn’t eat here because we drove 15 minutes to Lahinch for an early dinner.

AVOID PEAK TIMES

Stay away from peak times to avoid crowds. We were told to go early when it opened or in early evening. Because there are less tour buses and it is cooler during summer months.

PHOTO OPPS

Make sure to bring a camera because there are endless photo opportunities! They say the best view is from O’Brien’s Tower, a gorgeous tower built in 1835. (There is an extra cost to climb the tower.) Keep on the lookout for puffins who nest on Goat Island.