Imagine waking up to the sound of crashing waves, salty sea air, and endless views of the wild Atlantic. In Ireland, lighthouses aren’t just coastal beacons anymore — they’ve become some of the country’s most memorable holiday destinations. 

These restored historic towers and lightkeepers’ cottages offer a unique way to experience Ireland’s maritime past, dramatic coastline, and rich cultural heritage.

From County Donegal to West Cork, I’ve gathered the very best lighthouse stays in Ireland for your next adventure. Whether you’re seeking romance, a family retreat, or simply a break from the ordinary, there’s something on this list for you.

🌊 Why Stay in an Irish Lighthouse?

Lighthouses have watched over Ireland’s jagged shores for centuries, protecting sailors and guiding ships through stormy seas. Thanks to restoration projects led by groups like the Irish Landmark Trust, many of these coastal sentinels have been transformed into unique, self-catering getaways.

Besides the unbeatable scenery and rich history, staying in a lighthouse offers a rare chance to disconnect from busy modern life, enjoy wildlife spotting, and immerse yourself in the authentic character of Ireland’s coastline.

🏖️ Best Lighthouses to Stay in Ireland

Here’s our hand-picked list of Ireland’s finest lighthouse stays:

1️⃣ Blackhead Lightkeepers’ Houses, County Antrim

Located on the north shore of Belfast Lough, Blackhead Lighthouse has kept watch since 1902 — even guiding the ill-fated Titanic on its maiden voyage from Belfast.

Managed by the Irish Landmark Trust, the site offers three charming lightkeepers’ cottages:

House 1: Sleeps 5

House 2: Sleeps 7

Cutter’s House: Sleeps 4

Enjoy coastal walks to Whitehead Village, visit the Titanic Museum in Belfast, or tackle the nearby Gobbins Cliff Path.

Price: From €470 for a two-night stay

Pet-Friendly: Yes

2️⃣ Fanad Head Lighthouse, County Donegal

Often hailed as one of the most beautiful lighthouses in the world, Fanad Head sits between Lough Swilly and Mulroy Bay, boasting breathtaking views and rich maritime history.

Take a guided tour, climb the 199 steps to the top, and stay in one of three self-catering cottages, perfect for families or couples.

Nearby Highlights:

Murder Hole Beach

Portsalon Blue Flag Beach

Dolphin & whale spotting

Price: From €495 for a two-night stay

3️⃣ Wicklow Head Lighthouse, County Wicklow

For an unforgettable stay in Ireland’s “Garden County,” this octagonal lighthouse dating back to 1781 is a gem. Perched on the coast with panoramic views of the Irish Sea, it’s an atmospheric retreat close to Glendalough and Silver Strand Beach.

There’s accommodation inside the original lighthouse tower, featuring six octagonal rooms, two double bedrooms, and cozy window seats.

Note: Be ready to climb 109 steps to reach the kitchen — but those views are worth every step

Price: From €490 for a two-night stay

4️⃣ Loop Head Lightkeeper’s House, County Clare

At the tip of Loop Head Peninsula, this lighthouse offers 300-degree sea views and sits an hour’s drive from the Cliffs of Moher.
The restored lightkeeper’s cottage is dog-friendly and perfect for a group holiday. Nearby Must-Do’s:

Dolphin-watching in the Shannon Estuary

Wild Atlantic Way road trip

Price: From €572 for two nights (sleeps 6)

5️⃣ St. John’s Point Lighthouse, County Donegal

One of Ireland’s most isolated lighthouse getaways, St. John’s Point is ideal for a digital detox. Built in 1831, this remote lighthouse overlooks the North Atlantic near Killybegs.

Two cottages — Clipper and Schooner — offer snug accommodation with dramatic coastal views.

Things to Do:

Visit Killaghtee Cross

Explore McSwyne’s Castle ruins

Swim, dive, and spot dolphins

Price: From €451 for a two-night stay

6️⃣ Galley Head Lighthouse, County Cork

High above the Atlantic on the Wild Atlantic Way, Galley Head Lighthouse once shone the most powerful light in the world. Built in 1875, it’s a place where history meets luxury.

Stay in one of two lightkeepers’ houses perched 130 meters above the sea, explore nearby Inchydoney Beach, and enjoy whale-watching or stroll through the award-winning town of Clonakilty.

Fun Fact: The lighthouse’s light arc was built at the request of the Sultan of Turkey!

Price: From €486 for a two-night stay

7️⃣ Clare Island Lighthouse, County Mayo

Ireland’s only island lighthouse accommodation, Clare Island Lighthouse is now a boutique guesthouse offering a peaceful retreat away from it all.

Accessible by ferry from Roonagh Pier, the lighthouse has six elegant rooms and provides gourmet meals made with local produce. Enjoy guided island walks, kayaking, and visits to Gráinne O’Malley’s Castle.

Price: €300–€350 per night, including breakfast and dinner

📊 Quick Comparison Table

🎁 Something Unique

Before you book, here’s a local secret — if you stay at Fanad Head or Galley Head during late autumn or spring, you’ll have a good chance of spotting the Northern Lights dancing over the Atlantic on clear nights. Not many travelers know this!

Also, many of these lighthouses are located along the Wild Atlantic Way, so you can plan a full coastal road trip, ticking them off one by one.

Staying in a lighthouse in Ireland is more than a holiday — it’s a chance to connect with nature, explore ancient maritime history, and enjoy some of the country’s most beautiful, untouched landscapes.

So why settle for a regular hotel when you could wake up in a lighthouse overlooking the Atlantic? Pick one from our list, book your stay, and experience Ireland like never before.