Achill Island has been recognised as one of the best islands in the world, ranking eighth in a new global travel list.
The County Mayo island was named in the top 10 of Big 7 Travel’s annual “50 Best Islands in the World” ranking, which celebrates destinations known for their natural beauty, unique landscapes and memorable experiences.
Achill Island Bridge, County Mayo, Ireland. Shutterstock
Now in its seventh year, the list features islands from across the globe, with Achill Island standing alongside destinations including Sri Lanka, Madeira, the Galapagos and Seychelles.
Big 7 Travel praised Achill for its dramatic scenery, pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters, highlighting Keem Bay as one of its biggest attractions.
The travel site described the island as a place that “knows how to show off”, pointing to its colourful landscapes, from sunrise views and turquoise seas to green hills and dramatic sunsets.
Aerial view of Keem Bay, located on Achill Island, County Mayo, Ireland. Shutterstock
It said: “The island is a kaleidoscope of colour, from soft pink sunrises and turquoise seas to moss-green hills and fiery sunsets.”
The site also highlighted Keem Bay’s reputation as one of the world’s most beautiful beaches, while noting that the waters around Achill attract basking sharks, Ireland’s largest fish species.
“The crystal-clear waters are also popular with basking sharks, Ireland’s gentle giants. Try spotting them from the golden sands – or, if luck is on your side, you might get a chance encounter on a paddleboard.”
Menhirs on Achill Island, County Mayo, Ireland. Shutterstock
The full top 10 list of the world’s best islands was:
Secluded beach in Seychelles. Shutterstock
Big 7 Travel said its rankings were created by combining previous media results and travel awards with feedback from its social audience, alongside its own editorial judgement.
Located off the coast of County Mayo along the Wild Atlantic Way, Achill Island is Ireland’s largest offshore island and is known for its rugged coastline, mountains and beaches.
Keem Bay, Achill island, county Mayo, Ireland. Shutterstock
One of its most famous landmarks is Keem Bay, a sheltered horseshoe-shaped beach surrounded by cliffs. The beach has previously been recognised among the world’s most beautiful stretches of sand and featured prominently in the Oscar-nominated film The Banshees of Inisherin.
The island is also home to some of Ireland’s highest sea cliffs at Croaghaun, as well as five Blue Flag beaches including Keel (Trawmore Strand), Dooega and Golden Strand.
Visitors can also explore Achill’s history through landmarks including the Deserted Village on Slievemore Mountain, a 19th-century settlement left abandoned during the Great Famine period, and Kildavnet Castle, a 15th-century tower house linked to the famous Irish pirate queen Grace O’Malley.
Grace O'Malley's Castle, Kildavnet Tower in County Mayo, Ireland
The Atlantic Drive, a scenic 12-kilometre coastal route around the island, offers views of the Atlantic Ocean, cliffs and rocky landscapes, making it a popular route for cyclists and visitors exploring the area.
Achill Island’s latest international recognition adds to its growing reputation as one of Ireland’s most spectacular coastal destinations.
