If there’s one thing to visit in Dingle, it’s the harbour! Situated at the far end of the bay, you’ll find it rather picturesque! You’ll pass many fishing boats coming and going, their holds full of fish just caught offshore!
A street near Dingle harbour – Sharkshock
Let’s face it: the port of Dingle is the heart of the town! It’s thanks to him that the rest of the village can make a living from tourism, fishing and local gastronomy! The port of Dingle is first and foremost visited for its charm and atmosphere, and for the constant comings and goings of the fishing boats…
When you arrive, you’re immediately greeted by a lively and cheerful atmosphere. Imagine a tide of colorful boats bobbing gently on the water, seagulls chirping in search of fish and a sea breeze tickling your face. It’s the perfect setting for an unforgettable adventure!
The area contrasts wonderfully with the picturesque streets of Dingle. You’ll be enchanted by houses with colorful facades, traditional pubs and craft stores brimming with treasures. Take a stroll along the harbor and admire the authenticity of the village.
The port is best appreciated for its fish markets: a unique opportunity to see fishermen at work, unloading the day’s catch right on the quayside and selling their wares to the highest bidder. Hake, haddock, sea bass, octopus, seafood… Be sure to admire the finest products, and ask the fishermen about their fishing grounds.
Fish can be gutted on site and purchased (if you have the option of cooking at your accommodation).
And don’t forget to take a stroll along the harbour’s pontoons, where you can soak up the sea spray and meet the yachtsmen!
In fact, the atmosphere here is quite friendly, and contact with the locals is often prolix! The harbor’s pontoons and quays are easily accessible, and the boats to admire range from pretty trawlers to the magnificent sailboats used by the local Irish on sunny days.
Fungie statue in Dingle – Ron Cogswell – cc
There’s also a statue of a dolphin in the harbour: Fungie, a wild dolphin who used to play with boaters in Dingle Bay.
A real village mascot, he caused quite a stir when he disappeared in 2020… A real attraction, boat trips were even offered by the village to discover Ireland’s most famous dolphin!
His death merited a vibrant tribute in the form of this statue!
The Dingle Dolphin Boat Tours company is based in the harbour, offering boat trips to discover other schools of dolphins! Affordable rates and friendly, humorous guides!
You can’t leave the port of Dingle without sampling its deliciously wacky yet traditional cuisine. You’ll find plenty of restaurants right on the harbor’s edge, offering a memorable culinary experience.
While enjoying ocean views, local restaurants and Irish pubs will delight you with traditional dishes such as delicious fish and chips (the fish is usually supplied by local fishermen), decadent Kerry lamb dishes or tasty local Irish pies.
And of course, let’s not forget the Guinness that flows freely and the traditional music evenings where fiddles soar and feet tap frenetically!