Things to Do in Howth, Ireland: A Coastal Day Trip from Dublin
Howth is a charming coastal fishing village just outside Dublin, the kind of place that instantly slows your pace and gently pulls you into its rhythm. With rugged cliff walks, salt-kissed air, colorful boats bobbing in the harbor, and cozy seafood restaurants lining the pier, Howth is quiet but also deeply lived-in.
It’s a place made for wandering without an agenda, making friends over chowder, and letting the sea breeze guide your next turn. A Howth day trip from Dublin is a must-do on any Ireland itinerary. This guide covers the best things to do in Howth, Ireland.
Ireland has long been one of Europe’s most beloved destinations, and for good reason. From its narrow streets and dramatic landscapes to the friendliness and generosity of its people, the Emerald Isle has a way of welcoming you in and convincing you to stay a little longer.
For many travelers, that love affair begins in Dublin. Dublin will forever hold a huge piece of my heart, beyond being a city, but as a chapter of life. It still feels surreal to think that what began as a temporary adventure turned into four years spent living between Dublin and New York.
Since the beginning, I was drawn to the Irish culture and its people. And like so many others, I eventually realized what I had somehow missed for years: Ireland, and especially Dublin, is one of the most magical travel destinations in the world.
Known for its lively pubs, world-famous beer and whiskey, rich history, music-filled nights, and unmistakable warmth, Dublin is endlessly captivating. Yet just beyond the city, places like Howth offer a more intimate glimpse of Irish life, blending the cliffs and village life.
Best Things to do in Howth, Ireland
During the four years we lived in Dublin, Howth became one of those places we returned to again and again, almost instinctively. On many of our weekends, we would wake up early, grab coffee, and drive north out of the city.
Walk the Howth Cliff Path Loop
Walking the Howth Cliff Path Loop was our favorite way to spend spring mornings and its one of the best things to do in Howth. In March, April, and May, the cliffs are filled with the tiniest yellow wildflowers, scattered across the green cliffs like flecks of sunlight. It’s one of the most memorable things to do in Dublin, Ireland, especially if you want to experience the quieter, more local side of coastal life just outside Dublin.
The Howth Cliff Walk offers several route options, making it accessible for different energy levels and schedules. The Lower Cliff Walk is gentler and ideal for casual strolls, while the Upper Cliff Walk Loop delivers more breathtaking views and open panoramas. We often chose the longer route, stopping along the way whenever the view felt too good to pass by.
Some of the most beautiful viewpoints appear unexpectedly. Look for small clearings where the trail opens toward the sea, or quiet stretches where the cliffs soften into rolling grass. On clear days, you can see across the water toward Ireland’s Eye, with the village behind you and nothing but coastline ahead.
Bring a picnic, and seat in one of the benches along the way!
Explore howth harbour & Pier
After the walk, we almost always made our way back down toward Howth Harbor, where the village people quietly gathers. This working harbor is the heart of Howth, a place where fishing boats come and go daily, and life unfolds at a calm, unhurried pace.
Standing along the pier, watching the boats come and go, is a small but grounding experience, and one of the most relaxing things to do in Howth. Crates are unloaded, gulls wheel overhead, and the air carries the unmistakable scent of salt and sea. It is one of the simplest ways to feel connected to Howth’s identity as a traditional fishing village.
One of the highlights of a visit to Howth Village is taking a boat tour around Ireland’s Eye, a small, uninhabited island just off the coast. From the water, you get a completely different perspective of the peninsula, with sweeping views back toward the cliffs and open sea stretching ahead.
Along the way, you may spot seals resting on the rocks and countless seabirds overhead, an experience I wholeheartedly recommend. Afterwards, a relaxed lunch at one of the restaurants along the pier is the perfect way to watch harbor life continue around you.
Most tours are led by knowledgeable guides, often part of a small, family-run operation. They share insights into the Dublin Bay ecosystem and its nesting seabirds, including puffins. The tour offers a perfect pause on a day full of activities and it is one of the best things to do in Howth.
Howth Head is another highlight of the area. This dramatic peninsula defines the village’s coastline, offering views of the Irish Sea, Dublin Bay, and the rugged cliffs that make this part of Ireland so iconic.
The walk around the peninsula naturally connects to both the East Pier and the West Pier. Exploring both piers is a great way to appreciate Howth’s maritime character beyond the cliff paths.
Eat the Best Seafood in Howth
Seafood is central to life in Howth, and eating well here comes naturally. From casual fish and chips to sit-down harborfront dining, the village offers something for every mood.
While there are plenty of great spots, these are some of our favorite.
Chowder Restaurants
Howth is known for its seafood chowder, and nearly every menu offers a version worth trying. Creamy, comforting, and best enjoyed slowly, chowder feels especially satisfying after a harbor walk.
Octapussy
Eating at Octopussy almost every weekend quickly became one of our favorite things to do in Howth, and something we still talk about long after returning to the US. The fish and chips are exactly what you hope for along the Irish coast, crispy, light, and well-balanced.
Having grown up near the ocean, I thought I had a solid reference for what good seafood should taste like. But Octapussy completely reset my expectations. The food is bright, well-seasoned, and genuinely memorable, proof that small details matter.
The mussels are plump and full of flavor, while the prawns are often cooked in a sauce with Spanish twist, perfect for scooping up with fries or warm brown bread.
We also could not resist ordering oysters every time we went. Served simply in the shell with fresh lemon, they were beautifully prepared, generously sized, and tasted incredibly fresh.
The seafood chowder is filled with squid, mussels, smoked coley, and prawns. Hearty and packed with delicious ingredients. It is on the heavier side thanks to its creamy base, so sharing is a good idea. The accompanying homemade brown bread is excellent and helps balance the richness.
We have also eaten the seafood paella, generously loaded with chorizo, mussels, gambas, squid, and smoked fish.
Cafés and Bakeries
Between destinations, small cafés and bakeries throughout the village are perfect for warming up with tea or grabbing something sweet. They are ideal places to sit, people-watch, and let the afternoon stretch.
Located just steps from the dart station, Howth Market is an easy first stop when arriving in the village. Small but lively, it reflects the scale of Howth itself. The stalls lean heavily toward food, making it the perfect place to pick up a quick bite, but you will also find a thoughtful mix of locally made goods.
Vendors are friendly, and the atmosphere feels relaxed rather than rushed. Between stands selling fresh pastries, homemade sweets, honey, and small-batch jewelry, it is easy to linger longer than planned.
Seafood Restaurants with Harbor Views
Howth has long been known for its close relationship to the sea, and that heritage is reflected in its dining scene, where working trawlers, longtime locals, and curious visitors all coexist. Mamo captures that balance beautifully.
Mamo Restaurant (Michelin Guide)
Recognized in the Michelin Guide, Mamo feels special without being formal and refined without losing its sense of place.
Mamo is known for its delicious dishes made from locally sourced ingredients. Every dish shows intention, supported by thoughtful combinations and careful technique. The cooking is quietly creative, allowing the quality of the produce to take center stage.
Some dishes we loved sharing over the years include the halibut and the lobster linguine. The service is always warm, attentive, and impressively knowledgeable about every dish, and don’t leave without ordering dessert. If you have a sweet tooth like me, it’s a must!
Mamo is one of the best dining experiences you can have, and eating there is one of the best things to do in Howth.
Visit Howth Castle and Grounds
A short distance from the center of the village, you’ll find Howth Castle and its surrounding parkland. The coastal views give way to leafy paths and open lawns, perfect for slowing down and relaxing on a spring or summer afternoon, making it one of the best things to do in Howth Ireland.
It is an ideal addition to a Howth day trip from Dublin, especially if you are looking for a calmer contrast to the cliff paths and harbor activity. For those interested in history, book a guided visit to the castle to enrich the experience. You will learn about the different layers of stories tied to the St. Lawrence family, who have lived here for generations. Some sections of the estate date back more than 800 years, and even without full interior access, the sense of heritage is unmistakable.
Though slightly away from the village center, Howth Castle is worth a visit. Beyond exploring the grounds and taking a tour, you can also participate in experiences such as cooking classes at Howth Castle Cookery School.
FAQs About Visiting Howth, Ireland
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Absolutely. Howth is one of the most scenic coastal villages in Ireland and an effortless escape from Dublin. The combination of cliffs, harbor views, and seafood culture makes it a must-visit destination for first-time visitors and returning travelers alike.
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Most visitors can enjoy the highlights in a half-day, including a stroll along the harbor and a meal in the village. A full day in Howth is ideal for completing the Howth Cliff Path Loop, taking a boat tour around Ireland’s Eye, visiting Howth Castle, and enjoying a relaxed lunch or coffee.
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Yes. Howth is easily reachable from Dublin via the DART train for travelers who prefer not to drive. Once in the village, most attractions are within walking distance, and the harbor, markets, and cliff paths are all easily accessible on foot.
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Comfortable walking shoes are essential, especially if you plan to do the cliff walk. Dress in layers, as coastal weather can change quickly, and don’t forget a camera for panoramic views. If you plan a picnic on one of the beaches or grassy cliff spots, bring a small blanket and some snacks.
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Yes. Howth is welcoming for visitors of all ages. There are plenty of things to do in Howth for families. The harbor offers wildlife spotting opportunities, and boat tours provide an exciting way to explore the coast. Local cafés and markets also have options for kids and adults alike.
If you’ve enjoyed a few days in Dublin’s city center and are ready to explore more of the Emerald Isle, head to our European destinations section to discover other incredible corners of Ireland, including Galway and Doolin.
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Have you visited Ireland before? Share your favorite experiences and spots in the comments. We love hearing how you explore the Dublin and its surroundings!
Besitos from Dublin,
Laura