Skellig Michael
Ballinskeillig Bay, Killarney, Great Skellig
Famously used as a filming location in Star Wars: The Force Awakens, the rocky peak of Skellig Michael sits amid the wind-whipped Atlantic Ocean, off the coast of South West Ireland, reaching a height of 712 feet (217 meters). This UNESCO World Heritage Site was a hideaway for hermit monks between the 6th century and the 12th century. The island is no longer inhabited, but you'll find the remnants of the old monastic settlement, including historic beehive huts, scattered across the island.
The basics
You'll need to take a boat to get to the Skellig Islands. Tours typically land at Skellig Michael or circle both Skellig Michael and its smaller sister island, Little Skellig, which is not accessible to the public. Some tours from Killarney also make stops at picturesque spots along the Ring of Kerry and at the Skellig Experience Visitor Centre on nearby Valentia Island, which charts the history of the Skellig settlement.
Things to know before you go
Boat tours to the island don't run in winter, and poor sea conditions can sometimes prevent boat crossings at other times of year.
It's best to take boat trips on clear days, when fog and mist don't obscure views of the islands and the Ring of Kerry coastline.
Exploring the island on foot is only advisable for those fit and at ease with heights. Once you land, it's a challenging hike up 600 steep and sometimes slippery stone steps.
Bring warm clothes and a waterproof outer layer, as weather conditions can change quickly and dramatically.
How to get there
Boat tours depart from the marina at Portmagee, located on the Iveragh Peninsula, just off the Ring of Kerry. The trip generally takes between 45 and 60 minutes. Travelers without access to a car will find it easier to join a guided full-day tour that includes round-trip transportation from Killarney.
When to get there
Boat tours to Skellig Michael only run between mid-April and early October. The Skellig Experience Visitor Centre closes from December–February. The best and busiest time to visit is in the summer, when it's particularly important to book ahead to secure your place on a tour.
Wildlife-watching at the Skelligs
Many come to the Skelligs to view the monastic remains, while others come to see the Star Wars filming sites. However, the natural scenery and wildlife are worth the trip alone. Late spring is the best time to observe orange-billed puffins, cormorants, and the 70,000-strong gannet colony on Little Skellig—the second-largest gannet colony in the world. You may also see seals, minke whales, and dolphins.
Travel Like an Expert with AAA and Trip Canvas
Get Ideas from the Pros
As one of the largest travel agencies in North America, we have a wealth of recommendations to share! Browse our articles and videos for inspiration, or dive right in with preplanned AAA Road Trips, cruises and vacation tours.
Build and Research Your Options
Save and organize every aspect of your trip including cruises, hotels, activities, transportation and more. Book hotels confidently using our AAA Diamond Designations and verified reviews.
Book Everything in One Place
From cruises to day tours, buy all parts of your vacation in one transaction, or work with our nationwide network of AAA Travel Agents to secure the trip of your dreams!