Malin Head

Photo by Liam Lysaght


When you visit the breathtaking Malin Head on northernmost tip of Ireland, you’ll soon understand why the tourist trail here is called the Wild Atlantic Way. At the peak of the Inishowen Peninsula, Malin Head offers some of the most indomitable views you will ever see over the northern Atlantic and its geological marvels are second only to the Giant’s Causeway Coast.

There is evidence of human settlement in Malin Head dating back to the end of the last Ice Age. More recently – at least, historically speaking – the area held a military watchtower, used during the Napoleonic Wars. During World War Two, Malin Head was used as a detection point for German U-Boats in the Atlantic Ocean.

As well as a fascinating history and impressive views, the epic craggy coastline of Malin Head is the perfect habitat for an array of fascinating birdlife. Many species of sea bird pause here during their autumn migration. If you think you can brave the weather, this is the perfect time to pay a visit to Malin Head. Bring your binoculars and you might see anything from corncrakes to Atlantic puffins and choughs, as well as many other varieties of bird.

In recent years, Malin Head has also seen some spectacular displays of the Northern Lights, making winter a particularly good time to come. Keep your fingers crossed and you may be able to experience this awe-inspiring natural phenomenon for yourself – it really will take your breath away.

Plan a trip to see Malin Head

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Villa Rose Hotel & Spa
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3-bed House in Clonmany With Panoramic Hillside Se

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Joyce's Inishowen

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Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Malin Head

Malin Head offers a range of delightful activities for visitors, including relaxing spa experiences and challenging golf courses. The stunning coastal scenery provides a perfect backdrop for leisurely strolls and outdoor adventures, making it an ideal destination for those seeking both relaxation and recreation. Enjoy the charm of this picturesque location while indulging in the local amenities and natural beauty.

Shopping

In Malin Head, you can explore local shops for unique gifts and souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, a visit to Letterkenny Shopping Centre or the nearby Donegal Town offers a wider selection of boutiques and artisan shops to enhance your shopping experience.

Recreation

At Ballyliffin Golf Course, enjoy a round of golf amidst stunning landscapes, just 3.7km from Malin Head. Portsalon Golf Club, located 13.7km away, offers challenging holes with breathtaking coastal views. Buncrana Golf Club, 11.2km from Malin Head, provides a relaxed atmosphere for golf enthusiasts.

Adventure

At Malin Head, experience breathtaking coastal walks along dramatic cliffs, perfect for spotting wildlife. Enjoy exhilarating kayaking tours in the expansive Atlantic waters, or try your hand at surfing the waves for an unforgettable thrill. Don’t miss the stunning views from Ireland's most northerly point!

Nightlife

Experience the charm of Malin Head by visiting the Seaview Tavern for a friendly pint and traditional Irish music. For a lively atmosphere, check out the Lighthouse Tavern, where you can enjoy local brews and engage in spirited conversations with locals and fellow travellers alike.

Find the best attractions near Malin Head

Malin Head, located in County Donegal, offers a delightful mix of historic villages, stunning beaches, and scenic capes, perfect for those seeking romance and outdoor adventures. Visitors can explore various attractions while enjoying the area's natural beauty. For your stay, look for the best or closest hotels near Malin Head to ensure a comfortable and convenient experience during your holiday.

  • Malin Head Viewpoint: This stunning lookout offers breathtaking views of the rugged coastline and the Atlantic Ocean. Just 559m from Malin Head, it’s perfect for romantic strolls or adventurous hikes, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in nature's beauty.
  • Doagh Famine Village: Located 3.1km away from Malin Head, this historic village provides a poignant insight into Ireland's past. With its authentic reconstructions and engaging storytelling, it captures the culture and struggles of the Great Famine era.
  • Five Fingers Strand: A scenic beach just 2.5km from Malin Head, it boasts stunning cliffs and golden sands. Ideal for relaxing walks or invigorating swims, this picturesque strand is a must-visit for beach lovers.

Best time to go to Malin Head

The best time to visit Malin Head can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Malin Head falls in August, when visitor numbers are moderately high and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain. The coolest average temperature around Malin Head falls in January and February. February has moderately low visitor numbers and mostly cloudy weather.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January43.7°F (6.5°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
February43.7°F (6.5°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately LowSlightly Low
March44.6°F (7.0°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
April47.1°F (8.4°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly High
May50.7°F (10.4°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
June55.0°F (12.8°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
July57.4°F (14.1°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately HighSlightly High
August57.7°F (14.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately HighSlightly High
September56.1°F (13.4°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately HighAverage
October52.5°F (11.4°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
November48.4°F (9.1°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately LowSlightly Low
December45.3°F (7.4°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately LowAverage

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Malin Head

To save money on your trip to Malin Head, consider visiting during the cheaper months of January to February or November, when accommodation rates dip. Book your hotel about a month in advance for the best rates, and look for last-minute deals on Expedia. Tuesdays are typically the least expensive days to stay, while Saturdays are the priciest. Utilise Expedia's search tools to filter by budget, and consider bundling your hotel, flights, and activities for additional savings. Don't miss out on free outdoor activities such as coastal walks and scenic viewpoints.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Malin Head are January to February and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Malin Head is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Malin Head is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Malin Head is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia's search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, preferred location, and desired hotel category. To find the most affordable prices and offers, simply sort the price filter from low to high.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially save money by combining your hotel stay in Malin Head with your flights and activities by opting for an Expedia package.