A Day Out in Salthill

Are we there yet, are we there yet.

These words—often heard from the back seat of the car—can bring a surprising amount of joy, especially when you’re close to your destination! For families and traveller’s exploring the West of Ireland, Salthill is a welcome stop. Conveniently located almost halfway along the Wild Atlantic Way, it’s not too far a drive—or cycle—no matter which direction you’re coming from.

Nestled on the edge of Galway Bay, Salthill—affectionately known by locals as the Village Salthill—is just 2.5 km from Galway City Centre.

It’s easily accessible by car, bicycle, the number 401 bus, or even the tourist train that runs regularly from Eyre Square. This charming train offers a hop-on/hop-off experience throughout the day. The Galway Hop-On, Hop-Off Bus Tour also makes a stop in Salthill, dropping visitors right at the entrance of the Aquarium.

Announced as a winner of Tripadvisor’s Travelers’ Choice® Awards for 2025, the aquarium is thrilled to be among the top 10% of listings around the world on Tripadvisor. 

“Congratulations to Galway Atlantaquaria on its recognition in Tripadvisor’s Travelers’ Choice Awards for 2025,” said Kristen Dalton, President, Tripadvisor. “Ranking among the top percentage of businesses globally means you have made such a memorable impact on your visitors that many of them took time to go online and leave a glowing review about their experience. We hope this recognition continues to drive business to you in 2025 and beyond.” 

The aquarium is also surrounded by outstanding restaurants, family friendly businesses, parks and beaches, which all adds up to a great experience for any visitor. 

There is a restaurant to suit all budgets and tastes, with a number of shops where ‘food to go’ can also be purchased if you want to have a picnic by the sea. Picnic benches are located in a number of areas along the Salthill Promanade.

Check out https://www.salthill.com/ for a full list of resturants and activities.

The Circle of Life Garden provides a peaceful space for those who need a moment away from the hustle and bustle of the crowd. And of course if the thrill of the Ferris Wheel is more your thing, you will find lots of fun at the Curry’s Funpark. Seapoint and Caesars both have indoor amusements and bingo halls. 

For the ultimate thrill seeker, head to the Blackrock Diving Tower, and take a dive, or if you prefer to go for a gentle swim try Ladies Beach or Grattan Shore.

The beaches in Salthill are also a treasure trove of hidden gems for beach explorers, with a mixture of rocky shore and sandy beaches, for a quick seashore safari or sand castle challenge. Search for fossils amongst the rocks, or visit the sculptures and memorials that stretch from Grattan Beach along the promenade. Explore the history of the Salthill following our Storymap.

If you are headng to the shore, or to the aquarium and want to prepare before your visit, you can check out our online resources to prepare here.

There are numerous places to grab an ice-cream, such as the Lighthouse Gift Shop, the Bon Bon Summer Shop or the Creamery when the sun is shining and if the weather is not on your side an indoor swim can be had in Leisureland. Or sit in one of the indoor venues looking out on the sea, such as Ground and Co, Coco Cafe or the Cottage and enjoy a hot drink looking out on the rain and wild waves. 

For days with calmer seas, you might like to go out with Galway Bay Boat Tours, and see Salthill from the Bay, or take part in some kayaking with Rusheen Bay Watersports.

If you want to stay in Salthill over night, why not check out the range of local Hotels, Bed and Breakfasts or the Nest Hostel. And once settled in your lovely accomodation, head to one of the local bars for some craic agus ceol (fun and music) or to Trad on the Prom for some fabulous Irish Dancing. 

We hope you enjoy your visit to our Village by the Sea.

This blog is written by Galway Atlantaquaria, we are Fáilte Ireland Wild Atlantic Waw Champions since 2016, and as such our goal is to promote the very best of Salthill for our visitors and tourists.