Sceilg Mhichíl Visitor Season 2026

The Office of Public Works (OPW) announces that Sceilg Mhichíl will reopen to visitors on Saturday, 9 May 2026. Access to the site is dependent on favourable weather, sea, and island conditions.

Kevin ‘Boxer’ Moran, T.D., Minister of State with responsibility for the OPW said, “I am delighted to announce the reopening of Sceilg Mhichíl to visitors from 9 May 2026 for the summer season. Sceilg Mhichíl, featuring the remarkable early Christian monastic settlements plays a significant role in the local rural tourism economy. It also serves as a sanctuary for a vibrant array of birdlife and stands as a testament to our nation’s rich heritage.

We encourage everyone to book in advance and to respect the site’s guidelines, so that visitors can enjoy a safe and memorable experience of this iconic landmark, while also respecting its fragile ecosystem and built heritage.”

The magnificent site is one of Ireland’s magnificent UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The summit of this awe-inspiring rock, located off the Kerry coast, is St Fionán’s monastery, one of the earliest foundations in the country. The monks who lived there prayed and slept in beehive-shaped huts made of stone, many of which remain to this day. Today, it is home to a fantastic profusion of bird life. Little Skellig is the second-largest gannet colony in the world.

It is recommended that anyone planning a visit to the Sceilg Rock should view the Skellig Michael Safety Video prior to booking a visit to the island as it is important to be fully aware of the physical challenges of visiting the island.

Booking details can be found at https://heritageireland.ie/places-to-visit/skellig-michael/

Visitor queries can be addressed to opwskellig@opw.ie

For further information, please contact pressoffice@opw.ie

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NOTES:

Opening arrangements are variable, depending on weather conditions.

At all other times this site is unmanned and visits are prohibited.

Average Length of Visit: 2.5 hours (excluding boat trip)

• Visitors must stay on the recognised pathways at all times
• Beware of falling rocks
• Steep gradient on the steps
• Uneven steps
• Steps slippery when wet
• Visitors are advised to carry water and to wear protective clothing
• Children under the age of 12 are not permitted on the Island.

This is a particularly vulnerable site and visitors are therefore asked to co-operate with our efforts to protect this monument. No animals are allowed on this site.