Having a well-deserved family holiday in Kerry is just what you need, providing some much-needed relaxation and family time. So with this in mind we’ve come up with our suggestions that offer something for everyone – from toddlers to teens and parents to grandparents. All of these have been put through their paces by our very own Jacks staff kids and big kids and received a resounding thumbs up from everyone. All of the places listed below are less than 1 ½ hrs or so of us in Jacks, Cromane

BURKES BEACH TREKS, GLENBEIGH 

Rossbeigh Beach Riding is an experience which you will never forget. Located on the world-renowned Ring of Kerry and only 10 minutes from Cromane and 30 minutes from Killarney town in Glenbeigh, the Centre has established a reputation in recent years as “a trekker’s paradise”. 

Riding along on Rossbeigh Beach close to the water’s edge is an experience riders of all levels will thoroughly enjoy.  From trail riding through the spectacular scenery that surrounds Rossbeigh to a gentle ride along the beach, Trek along miles of country road surrounded by scenery which will take your breath away. Contact Ger HERE  for bookings.

CAPPANALEA OUTDOOR EDUCATION, CARAGH LAKE

Cappanalea Outdoor Education and Training Centre have a huge variety of outdoor water and land activities to get stuck into while staying in Kerry – from stand up paddle boarding, kayaking, rock climbing and wind surfing to mention just a few – you will really enjoy your day here – I’ve never come home from there unhappy!. Make sure you bring a spare set of clothes and shoes. For bookings and more information visit their WEBSITE

KELLS BAY HOUSE & GARDENS, KELLS

Kells Bay Gardens is one of Europe’s premier horticultural experiences, containing a renowned collection of Tree-ferns and other exotic plants growing in its unique microclimate created by the Gulf Stream. It is the home of ‘The SkyWalk’ Ireland’s longest rope-bridge – kids will love it there too with a huge variety of dinosaur shaped tree stumps as you admire the dramatic views of Dingle Bay – for tickets and information visit KELLS BAY WEBSITE

DINGLE OCEAN WORLD, DINGLE

Oceanworld Aquarium is located in Dingle, County Kerry and is Ireland’s largest aquarium.  The Aquarium hosts a collection of magnificent Sand Tiger Sharks, Gentoo Penguins , Asian Short-Clawed Otters and includes an abundance of different fish species.  Experience this enchanting underwater world and learn the wonders of the ocean. For opening hours and bookings visit their WEBSITE

AQUADOME, TRALEE 

The Aqua Dome is one of Irelands Largest Indoor Waterworld’s & Premier Tourist Attractions located on the Wild Atlantic Way. The Aqua Dome offers tropical temperatures all year round and is a Great Day Out for all the family whatever the weather! It is brimming with exciting features that captures the imagination of both child and adult alike. The Aqua Dome is fun for swimmers & non-swimmers. For opening hours and more information visit their WEBSITE

CRAG CAVE, CASTLEISLAND

Discovered in 1983 and thought to be over 1 million years old Crag Cave is a magical wonderland of stalagmites and stalactites. It is an all weather visitor attraction located in Castleisland Co. Kerry 2 km off the N21.Crag Cave is an ancient fossil cave system, older than mankind itself, within which can be seen the natural forces that created the complex and beautiful passages – a must see! For tickets and more information visit CRAG CAVE

TRALEE BAY WETLANDS, TRALEE

Discover the Joy in Nature & Activity at Tralee Bay Wetlands Eco & Park. Take a trip on one of the pedal or rowboats through the large shallow lake, or adrenaline and adventure seekers might like to have a go on the state-of-the-art outdoor climbing wall. . Explore and Discover the Wetlands at the Centre Ecologists or Relax and sit down enjoying the panoramic views of the Activity Lake while enjoying Warbler & Wren Coffee along with a large variety of Homemade Desserts & Cookies. For more information and tickets visit their  WEBSITE

KENNEDYS PET FARM, KILLARNEY

Kennedys Pet Farm is a family-run farm, with loads to offer for your day out and more. It is the ideal venue for family days out in Killarney, where you can relax while the kids enjoy the safe and fun-filled surrounds of the farm. Foe opening hours and ticket information visit KENNEDYS PET FARM

SPLASH WATERSPORTS, CASTLEGREGORY

If Kayaking, Water trampolines, water slides and boogie boards are your thing then a reip to Phillip at Splashsports Castlegregory should be top of your to do list.Learn to popup and ride the wave or book a tour on one of their ribs taking in the breath-taking majestic coastline of Tralee Bay and Brandon Bay and around the Maharees Islands. Phillip and his crew will take good care of you. For more information and booking details visit SPLASH SPORTS WEBSITE

SEA SYNERGY MARINE AWARENESS & ACTIVITY CENTRE, WATERVILLE

Sea Synergy is a Marine Awareness, Research and Activity Centre that offers a variety of meaningful activities, workshops, and adventures that empower all ages. Sea Synergy’s immersive experiences in the Skellig Coast’s rich local heritage and environment allows guests to fully experience what Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way has to offer. Have a look at their website for events and opening hours HERE

KINGDOM FALCONRY, DINGLE

Kingdom Falconry provide unforgettable falconry experience for groups, families, and individuals. They offer the unique opportunity to get up close and personal with a variety of our majestic and awe-inspiring birds of prey: hawks, falcons eagles, and owls providing education and entertainment as you interact with these amazing birds of prey. For more information have a look at their website HERE

GAP OF DUNLOE PONY & TRAP RIDES

If you would prefer somebody (or something) else to do the walking, you can either hire a pony and ride on horseback or take a trip via pony & trap through the Gap of Dunloe. You’ll find the ponies for hire at the head of the Gap, just after Kate Kearney’s Cottage. Don’t worry if you’ve never been on a horse before: The horses have been doing this trip for years and don’t require any direction. Your only problem will be getting them to move if they find a nice patch of grass along the route! For more things to do ‘Up the Gap’ have a look at their website HERE

Now if you mange to bring the kiddies to all these places on one trip to Kerry, we salute you! We’ll be sure to keep this blog up to date with more places we will visit over the coming weeks and months. Have a read of our other suggestions on THINGS TO DO  in Kerry just click HERE and don’t forget if you’re looking to stay for while, you can book our self catering cottages HERE or if you would prefer to just have a bite to eat with us before or after your trip,we’d love to have you!

For last minute reservations contact us on 066 9769102 or book ahead by booking online HERE

Written by P Moroney