Galway in 1 Day for Families - Wild Atlantic Way coach drive
In Collaboration with Wild Atlantic Way Day Tours. Updated on February 4, 2026.
Full-day guided coach + ferry tour from Galway visiting Inisheer (Inis Oirr) and the Cliffs of Moher. Operates March–October. Perfect for families with children — includes ferry crossings, free time on the island for exploring and lunch, a Cliffs of Moher sea-cruise (weather dependent) and entry to the Atlantic Edge visitor centre.
This itinerary was created in collaboration with Wild Atlantic Way Day Tours, inspired by the tour Aran Islands Day Tour from Galway, including Cliffs of Moher Cruise. Please check the tour information during your booking process.
Highlights
- Wild Atlantic Way coach drive
- Ferry crossing to Inisheer (Inis Oirr)
- 2 hours free time on Inisheer (beach, shipwreck, castle)
- Cliffs of Moher sea-cruise (subject to weather)
- Atlantic Edge visitor centre — entry included
Itinerary
Day 1
Full-day family tour: meet in Galway, coach transfer to Doolin, ferry to Inisheer, island free time (lunch), return ferry with optional Cliffs cruise, Cliffs of Moher visitor centre, return to Galway.
08:45 — Check-in & meet at Merchants Road (outside Kinlay Hostel)
Please arrive 15 minutes before departure to present your booking and stow any small hand-luggage. This is the main meeting point in Galway city on Merchants Road, outside the Kinlay Hostel.
Tips from local experts:
- Stroller/buggy tip: foldable buggies are easiest — there may be a short curb to cross when boarding the coach; keep straps handy.
- Facilities: there are public toilets close to the meeting point (ask your driver/guide for the exact spot) — use them before boarding.
- Weather prep: Galway mornings can be cool in July — bring a lightweight layer for children even if the forecast is fine.
09:00 — Scenic coach transfer along the Wild Atlantic Way to Doolin
Relax on the coach while the guide points out Burren landscapes, castles and coastal views en route to Doolin Pier. Expect a few short photo stops when safe and convenient.
Tips from local experts:
- Motion-sickness: if anyone in the family is prone to travel sickness, sit near the front of the coach and bring travel-sickness remedies.
- Bathroom breaks: ask your guide for scheduled stops — older kids and infants should use facilities before longer road stretches.
- Kid entertainment: download a couple of short audiobooks or playlists for the journey — mobile reception is patchy in places along the route.
10:45 — Arrive Doolin Pier & ferry boarding pass distribution
On arrival at Doolin harbour the driver/guide will give you boarding passes for the ferry to Inisheer. Use this time for last-minute loo trips and to secure indoor seating if you prefer.
Tips from local experts:
- Boarding logistics: keep children close — the pier area can be uneven and windy; put lifejackets on small children only when instructed by crew.
- Facilities: public toilets are available near the pier — use them before boarding the ferry as facilities on small ferries are limited.
- Secure belongings: beaches and piers are windy; keep hats and loose toys zipped in a bag.
11:00 — Ferry crossing Doolin → Inisheer (approx. 30 minutes)
Short ferry ride across Galway Bay to Inisheer. Watch for dolphins and enjoy coastal views — seating is both indoor and outdoor; children can enjoy the sea air from sheltered spots.
Tips from local experts:
- Seating choice: choose indoor seating if your family prefers calmer conditions or if little ones may nap.
- Safety: children under a certain age/size should wear lifejackets if crew request — follow crew instructions at all times.
- Comfort: bring a small snack and bottled water (consumption usually allowed) and a windproof layer for children on the upper deck.
11:30 — Free time on Inisheer (Inis Oirr) — explore, beach & lunch options (2 hours)
You’ll have approximately 2 hours to walk to the Plassey shipwreck, O'Brien's Castle ruins, visit the lighthouse area, relax on a sandy beach and choose a family-friendly cafe or pub for lunch (optional).
Tips from local experts:
- Stroller note: island lanes are narrow and many surfaces are uneven — a lightweight stroller is workable for short distances but a carrier is easier for longer exploring.
- Lunch with kids: many island cafes/pubs offer simple sandwiches, soups and chips — ask for a children’s portion; bring any allergy-specific food as options are limited.
- Family activities: consider a short bike hire only if children are comfortable cycling on quiet single-lane roads — check age/size rules with the hire operator first and always wear helmets.
13:45 — Return ferry departs Inisheer (Cliffs of Moher sea-cruise subject to weather)
Board the return ferry. Weather permitting, the skipper will take the ferry on a guided cruise underneath the Cliffs of Moher — an unforgettable sea-level view for the family.
Tips from local experts:
- Cruise variability: the Cliffs detour depends on sea/weather conditions — have a backup plan if rough seas prevent the detour (the coach visit to the cliffs is still included).
- Children & viewing: the best views are from the upper deck but supervise children closely near rails; use binoculars for seabird spotting.
- Sea-sickness & comfort: if anyone felt queasy on the morning crossing, choose indoor seating and keep snacks/light fluids handy.
15:00 — Re-board coach at Doolin Pier & short transfer to Cliffs of Moher Visitor Centre
After docking, re-board the coach for the short drive to the Cliffs of Moher visitor centre (Atlantic Edge). Your tour entry is included.
Tips from local experts:
- Coach access: step-free boarding onto the coach is usually available but ask your guide for assistance with strollers or car seats.
- Snack break: this short transfer is a good moment for a quick drink/snack before the cliffs stop — toilets are available at the visitor centre.
- Timing: coaches keep to a tight schedule — arrive at the coach promptly after the ferry to avoid delays for the group.
15:30 — Cliffs of Moher: Atlantic Edge visitor centre & short family-friendly walk (1 hour)
Enjoy included entry to the Atlantic Edge exhibition and a guided-free stroll along the paved viewing paths. The visitor centre has interactive displays ideal for curious kids and sheltered indoor space if it’s windy.
Tips from local experts:
- Accessibility: the visitor centre and several viewing points have paved, pushchair-friendly routes — ask staff for the easiest route if you need step-free access.
- Safety around cliffs: keep young children on a short lead or hold hands; do not approach stone walls or cliff edges — paths can be windy and slippery.
- Facilities & food: the visitor centre café has family-friendly options and baby-changing facilities — use these before a longer return journey.
16:30 — Return coach journey via Lisdoonvarna & the Burren back to Galway (photo stops en route)
Relax on the coach with more guided commentary. The route takes in Lisdoonvarna and the Burren’s unique landscape — the driver will stop for photos where possible.
Tips from local experts:
- Rest stops: if your family needs extra breaks, let your guide know — they can often add a short stop for comfort/stretching.
- Scenic windows: choose seats on the left/right of the coach depending on the guide’s advice for best coastal/Burren views (they’ll point it out).
- Evening prep: pack a small evening snack and a light blanket for any tired kids on the final stretch back to Galway.
19:00 — Tour concludes at Merchants Road, Galway (drop-off)
Return to the original meeting point on Merchants Road. Say goodbye to your driver/guide and collect any stored luggage from the coach.
Tips from local experts:
- Pick-up of belongings: if you left a stroller or larger item on the coach, confirm with the guide where it will be left for retrieval.
- Evening plans: Galway has many family-friendly restaurants nearby if you want an easy dinner after the tour — ask your guide for a local recommendation.
- Transport connections: taxis and bus services are available near Merchants Road — if you need help arranging onward travel, your guide can advise.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 1 |
| Highlights | 5 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Families |
| Transfers | 5 |
| Restaurants | - |
| Total Activities | 5 |
| Total Places | 5 |
| Activities Types | Transfer, Experience, Attraction, Neighborhood |