The Achill Experience Aquarium & Visitor Centre

Location

About

Located on the beautiful Achill Island in County Mayo, The Achill Experience Aquarium & Visitor Centre offers an unforgettable experience for tourists of all ages. This modern aquarium, which opened its doors in 2016, is home to a wide variety of aquatic creatures, as well as interactive exhibits and educational displays.

Upon entering the aquarium, visitors are greeted by a massive tank filled with native Irish fish such as salmon, trout, and bream. As you move through the various rooms, you will encounter tanks filled with a wide variety of sea creatures, from sea urchins to starfish to seahorses. One of the highlights of the aquarium is the shark tank, where visitors can get up close and personal with these fascinating and often misunderstood creatures.

In addition to the aquarium exhibits, The Achill Experience also offers a number of interactive experiences for visitors. The touch tank allows visitors to get hands-on with some of the aquarium's inhabitants, such as crabs and sea cucumbers. There is also a virtual reality exhibit where visitors can dive into the ocean and explore a coral reef, providing a unique and immersive experience.

For those who want to learn more about the marine environment, The Achill Experience offers educational displays and information about the local ecosystem. Visitors can learn about the importance of conservation and sustainable fishing practices, as well as the impact of pollution on the oceans.

The aquarium also features a gift shop, where visitors can purchase souvenirs and gifts to remember their experience. Additionally, the on-site café offers a range of delicious food and drinks, including fresh seafood dishes, making it the perfect spot to relax and recharge after exploring the exhibits.

Overall, The Achill Experience Aquarium & Visitor Centre is a must-visit attraction for anyone traveling to Achill Island or the surrounding area. With its impressive array of marine life, interactive exhibits, and educational displays, the aquarium provides a fun and engaging experience for visitors of all ages. Whether you are a marine enthusiast or simply looking for a unique and memorable tourist attraction, The Achill Experience Aquarium & Visitor Centre is well worth a visit.

Gallery

Things to do nearby

The Achill Experience Aquarium & Visitor Centre is a must-visit destination for tourists seeking an immersive experience with Ireland's marine life. Located in the picturesque village of Keel on Achill Island, the Aquarium offers a unique insight into the rich marine heritage of the region.

Once you've explored the Aquarium, there are plenty of other things to see and do nearby. Here are some of the top places and activities to check out during your visit:

1. Keel Beach
Keel Beach is one of the most popular beaches on Achill Island and is located just a few minutes' walk from the Aquarium. The beach offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and is a great spot for swimming, surfing, and sunbathing.

2. Slievemore Mountain
Slievemore Mountain is a popular hiking spot on Achill Island and offers some of the most breathtaking views of the island's rugged landscape. The hike to the summit takes about 3-4 hours and is suitable for hikers of all levels.

3. The Deserted Village
The Deserted Village is an abandoned 19th-century village located on the slopes of Slievemore Mountain. The village offers a fascinating insight into the lives of the people who lived there and is a must-visit for history buffs.

4. Keem Bay
Keem Bay is a secluded bay located on the western end of Achill Island and is one of the most picturesque spots on the island. The beach offers crystal clear waters and is a great spot for swimming and snorkeling.

5. Achill Island Sea Salt
Achill Island Sea Salt is a small family-run business that produces high-quality sea salt using traditional methods. Visitors can take a tour of the production facility and learn about the process of making sea salt.

6. Achill Island Golf Club
Achill Island Golf Club is a scenic 9-hole golf course located in the village of Keel. The course offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape and is suitable for golfers of all levels.

7. Biking
Achill Island is a great place to explore by bike, with a variety of scenic routes available. Bikes can be rented from a number of locations on the island, including Keel.

8. Kayaking
Kayaking is a popular activity on Achill Island, with a number of operators offering guided tours of the island's coastline. Visitors can explore sea caves, hidden beaches, and other scenic spots by kayak.

9. Surfing
Achill Island is a popular surfing destination, with some of the best waves in Ireland. Surfing lessons and equipment rentals are available from a number of locations on the island.

Overall, there are plenty of things to see and do near The Achill Experience Aquarium & Visitor Centre. From hiking and biking to kayaking and surfing, Achill Island offers something for everyone.