View MapView Map
HomeDestinationsWexfordWhy everyone’s visiting W ...
Why everyone’s visiting Wexford’s Hook Peninsula
Spend a day exploring Hook Peninsula.
For many Irish people, memories of childhood summers spent in Wexford hold a special place in their hearts. Now, families, friends and couples alike are flocking to the historic and breathtaking Hook Peninsula, and it doesn’t take long to work out why.

Read our guide to the Hook Peninsula and start planning your trip now.

Hook Lighthouse

Lighthouse in the evening time beside a house on Hook Head Wexford
Visit the striking Hook Lighthouse in Co Wexford.

The now iconic Hook Lighthouse emerged on the skyscape of Wexford’s southern-most tip, some 800 years ago. Thought to be one of the oldest operational lighthouses in the world, its creation from the local limestone was an extraordinary feat of construction at the time.

Your enjoyment of the lighthouse begins long before you arrive; its black and white form protruding from the rugged headland, framed by epic sea views as you navigate the winding coastal roads. 

The highlight of your guided tower tour is the voyage to the top; as each one of the 115 ancient steps inside the thick-walled chamber brings you closer to the incredible 360-degree views over miles of rolling sea.  

With a hunger well and truly roused, recharge at the Lightkeeper’s House Café and Bakery where toasted crab sandwiches, homemade soup and fresh seafood chowder is served as you watch the waves crash. Eagle-eyed visitors may even spot seals, dolphins or whales along the coast.

Events at Hook Lighthouse

Experience Hook Lighthouse in a unique way.
Experience Hook Lighthouse in a unique way.

A guided tour is far from the only way to enjoy the beauty of Hook Lighthouse. For a more interactive approach, why not attend a themed cookery demonstration, historical re-enactment or art workshop at the historic landmark?

The Lighthouse hosts a range of festivals and family events all year round, including the New Year Sunrise Tour, the Imbolc Festival in February, as well as Valentine’s Day, St. Patrick’s Day and Mother’s Day events. The Shine a Light Festival during the May bank holiday is always a popular one, as is the Hooked on the Sea Festival in June and the Harvest Moon Celebration in September.

Hook Head adventures

Take to the waters for an adventure at Hook Head.
Take to the waters for an adventure at Hook Head.

Kayaking and coasteering at Hook Head 

To really get amongst it, try sea cave kayaking around the beautiful Baginbun Beach with the Irish Experience, or why not book a spectacular, sunset kayaking trip? You could also try stand up paddleboarding and coasteering, for an authentic explorer experience.

Kitesurfing

For those who prefer to take to the water with the help of the wind and a large controllable kite, Hooked Kitesurfing has you covered. Whether you're a complete beginner or have plenty of experience the constant winds and flat shallow water of Duncannon Beach make it an ideal location. The views are breathtaking with a vista spanning from the estuary to Hook Head and as far as the rugged Waterford coastline.

Children can also learn how to power kite with lessons available for those aged eight and above. 

Walking tours

Join Liam Colfer from Livin' off the Hook on a three mile Hike the Hook walking tour to learn more about the fascinating history of the Hook Peninsula. Having spent ten years working as the head guide at Hook Lighthouse and his childhood roaming the shoreline, Liam shares his insider knowledge on this informative and scenic tour taking in the tip of the peninsula.

Experience Wexford

A visit to the Hook Peninsula is the perfect opportunity to explore the Model County. Our Wexford destination page has lots of ideas for places to see and things to do.

Mail Icon SVG

Subscribe now to receive destination inspiration, travel tips, upcoming events and all the best things to do around Ireland.