The Wild Atlantic Way winds past Westport, a seaside town in County Mayo known for its concentration of pubs and restaurants. Lively and colorful, Westport is a popular base for exploring the country's dramatic coastal scenery. It's also a gateway to the Great Western Greenway, a rail trail that is popular with cyclists. Other top things to do in Westport include going on coastal hikes, beach walks, sea kayaking, and drinking in pubs with traditional Irish music.
The most popular time of year to visit Westport is in summer when an international crowd arrives to explore the coastline. Visitors looking to avoid the crowds may prefer the quieter spring and fall. Westport is usually buzzing on bank holiday weekends and for annual festivals such as the Westport Folk and Bluegrass Festival in June and the Westport Music and Arts Festival in October.
Westport is a compact town that's easy to navigate on foot. Most visitors arrive via a rental car to further explore the coastline and the Wild Atlantic Way. One of the most popular ways to discover the area is by bicycle, especially along the Great Western Greenway. Local bike shops have bicycles available to rent. Parking can be tight, so brushing up on your parallel parking skills in advance may be useful.
Westport is a gateway to activities along the coast in County Mayo, but many visitors don’t think about getting in the water. One of the best ways to explore is by sea kayak, especially in calm Clew Bay. Choose between joining a tour or renting a kayak and setting out at your own pace. Horseback riding on nearby beaches is another unexpected way to go sightseeing around Westport.
