Skellig Michael

Overview

Skellig Michael is a stunning island and UNESCO World Heritage Site located off the coast of County Kerry, Ireland. It is renowned for its dramatic cliffs, early Christian monastery, and rich biodiversity, including puffins and other seabirds.

Skellig Michael is significant for its early Christian monastic ruins, which date back to the 6th century, and its role as a breeding ground for seabirds. It is also famous for its appearance in the Star Wars films.

Historical Natural Religious

Location

Address

Ballinskeillig Bay, Great Skellig

Neighborhood: Skellig Coast

Coordinates

51.766700, -10.533300

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM

tuesday 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM

wednesday 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM

thursday 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM

friday 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM

saturday 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM

sunday 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Admission

Adults

$30 (boat ticket)

Children

$15 (boat ticket)

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

May-September

Best Time of Day

Early morning

fewer crowds, better weather

Duration Recommendations

Minimum

2 hours

Recommended

4 hours

Full Experience

full day

Seasonal Highlights

spring

mild

• puffins return
• wildflowers

summer

warm

• long daylight hours

autumn

cool

• fall colors
• migrating birds

winter

cold

• winter storms
• wildlife

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

Boat access only
Weather dependent
Book ahead

What to Bring

essential

ID water weather-appropriate clothing

seasonal

rain jacket sun protection

not allowed

drones large bags

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: moderate

• uneven terrain
• stairs

Medical facilities: none, nearest on mainland

Payment Information

Accepted

cash, cards

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Typical Costs

boat ticket $30

tour guide $50

food $15

souvenirs $20

Dress Code

casual, weather-appropriate, sturdy shoes, layers, walking/hiking shoes, inappropriate clothing

Booking Tips

• 1-2 months
• official website or tour operator
• weather-dependent, flexible
• none, limited access

Amenities

Restrooms

Gift shop

Atm

Wifi

Lockers

Wheelchair rental

Stroller rental

On site restaurant

Cafe

Picnic areas

Outside food allowed

Digital Services

Mobile App

Skellig Michael Explorer

Size: 30 MB

Features: Map, Tour guide, Weather updates

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: Visitor center

Charging Stations: Visitor center

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: Kerry Airport

Distance: 80 km

Travel Time: 1.5 hours

taxi

$120 1.5 hours

public_transport

$20 2.5 hours

From City Center

Distance: 50 km

bus

$10 1.5 hours

taxi

$80 1 hour

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: Unique history and nature

Historical Significance: Early Christian monastic site

Insider Tips

Early morning tours less crowded
Best views from boat

Local Recommendations

• Visit Portmagee for local food
• Ask for guide Mike

Language Help

Useful Phrases

hello Dia dhuit

thank_you Go raibh maith agat

where_is Cá bhfuil

how_much Cad é an t-íos

beautiful Álainn

ticket Ticéad

Guide Languages: English, Irish, French

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

Monastic ruins

Best Time: Golden hour

Tips: Wide-angle shots

Result: Dramatic landscapes

#SkelligMichael #WildAtlanticWay #Ireland

Photography Rules

allowed areas outdoor areas, cliffs

prohibited areas ancient buildings, bird nesting sites

flash photography not allowed

commercial photography permit needed

drone policy prohibited

tripod policy restricted

selfie sticks allowed

Nearby Attractions

Valentia Island

Distance: 10 km

Walking: N/A

Type: Island

Derrynane Beach

Distance: 20 km