Sherkin Island
MapAccommodationEventsActivitiesAttractions
The Island of the Sea-Porpoise.
One of Carbery’s Hundred Isles, in Roaring Water Bay, Sherkin is the ancestral home of the O’Driscoll clan whose castle lies just above the pier. Nearby, you can also roam the ruins of a 15th century Franciscan abbey.
Sherkin buzzes with activity during the summer months and locals are renowned for their warmth and hospitality. Come to hear great live traditional music or enjoy the activities of the Sherkin Family Regatta, a big splash in the island's social calendar.
Sherkin's three sandy beaches make great secluded swimming areas and walking along the shore you may see seals, otters, schools of dolphins or the porpoises which gave the island its name. A number of artists live on the island and Sherkin is unique in running a Fine Arts Degree Course.
Highlights
Celtic Music Festival (May); Sherkin family regatta (July);
Old Franciscan Friary; ruins of O’Driscoll’s Castle.
Activities
Nature-trailing; sailing; live music; fishing; swimming.
Address
Fáilte Ireland Southwest Region
Áras Fáilte, Grand Parade
Cork
Cork
Republic Of Ireland
Telephone
+353 ((0)21) 4255100
Web
www.discoverireland.ie/southwest
Key Facts and Information
Directions
Located in Roaring Water Bay, Co. Cork, a 10 minute ferry journey from Baltimore (itself 13 km from Skibbereen)
Accommodation
Hotel, guesthouse. Shop, restaurants, pubs. Taxi in summer.
Size
Approx 4.8 km long & 2.4 km wide.
When to visit
Visitors welcome all year (hotel closed Jan & Feb), busiest time is June to September.
Take me to the Island
Sherkin Island Ferry operates daily sailings from Baltimore, all year round.
Sherkin Island Ferry
+353 (0)28 20218