Mizen Head is an awe-inspiring place if you want to see dramatic views over the Atlantic Ocean. The glowing blue water and rugged cliffs offer a perfect day out for the whole family.
With one of Ireland’s most spectacular tourist spots, Mizen Head is perfect for photographers, families and children.
It is an opportunity to discover the outdoors and everything the southern Irish coastline offers. How will you spend your time at Mizen Head?
Find out everything you need to know about the stunning Mizen Peninsula…
Mizen Head General Information
Mizen Head is one of the most southern points on the Irish mainland.
It is an iconic tourist spot that attracts thousands of visitors each year. The dramatic sea views and beautiful scenery offer a great day out for the whole family.
Mizen looks out across the Atlantic Ocean and is a rigged spectacle to enjoy. The County Cork attraction is also part of the world-famous Wild Atlantic Way.
Check out these other activities in Cork to enjoy on your visit. Or look through the charming Wild Atlantic Way cottages.
Opening Hours
Mizen Head reopens fully from 17th March 2022.
April – May: Monday – Friday, 10:30 – 17:00
June – August: Monday – Friday, 10:00 – 18:00
September – October: Monday – Friday, 10:30 – 17:00
November – March: Saturday – Sunday, 11:00 – 16:00
Where to Park
There is plenty of parking available at the Tourist Centre.
Throughout the summer months, this popular destination can be very busy. That means parking can quickly become crowded.
There are plenty of coach tours that leave from Cork city centre and remove the worry about parking.
Admission Fees
There is an entry fee to cross the bridge at Mizen Head. That allows you to get down to the Signal Station and look out over the views across the Atlantic Ocean.
Adult: €7.50
Senior/Student: €6
Children under 14: €4.50
Children under 5: Free
Group Fees
Family (2 adults and up to 4 children): €25
Groups (10 and over): Adults: €6.50, Senior/Student: €5, Child: €3.50
You can buy tickets for Mizen Head from the visitor centre. There are no online tickets available.
We try to keep our information as up to date as possible. However, the prices may vary. There may be more up to date admission prices on the Mizen Head website.
Facilities
At Mizen Head, there are a variety of facilities to make your trip more convenient.
Cafe
As part of the visitor centre, the Café is a great place to relax.
You can grab hot and cold drinks as well as a variety of local food.
The food menu often serves cakes, sandwiches, seafood, and ice cream. An ideal way to keep the kids happy.
Shop
If you’re looking to pick up a souvenir from your visit, the shop at Mizen Head is the perfect place.
You can find photographs, cards, books, clothes, and toys to remember your visit to the Mizen Head Bridge.
Where is Mizen Head?
Mizen Head is at the tip of the Mizen Peninsula in County Cork.
Although Brow Head to the east is further south than the Mizen Peninsula, many people regard the head as the most southerly point.
In fact, most guides measure the length of Ireland between Malin Head and Mizen Head.
Plan your visit with the convenience of these self-catering Cork cottages.
What is Mizen Head in Irish?
The Irish name for Mizen Head is Carn Uí Néid.
Carn Uí Néid is a translation meaning Cairn of Néid’s grandson, dating back to 12th-century Irish mythology.
Things to See
Mizen Lighthouse
After passing through the visitor centre, the Mizen Lighthouse is one of the first places most people look for.
The lighthouse has always been a beacon to passing ships, warning them of the rocky cliffs and choppy waters.
On your visit, the lighthouse is one of the furthest points along with Mizen Head and gives you some of the best views over the Atlantic Ocean.
Can you spot the other lighthouse on Fastnet Rock out at sea?
Visitor Centre
If you want to look around Mizen Head, you will need to visit the visitor centre.
However, there is more than just a ticket stall here. Enjoy lunch in the café or learn more about the history of the Mizen Peninsula with some of the local guides.
Whale Watching
If you love whales, Mizen Peninsula is one of the best places in Ireland to see the majestic creatures.
You can often see humpback whales, dolphins, seals, and turtles along this rugged coastline.
Although you can see these creatures from Mizen Peninsula, the best way of experiencing whales is by taking a whale watching tour.
Many of these tours leave from the shores of West Cork and head along the coast to the waters surrounding Mizen Head.
Whale watching can be seasonal. Check out the Whale Watch West Cork website to see the available whale watching experiences.
Similar Attractions
Malin Head
At the opposite end of Ireland, Malin Head is the most northerly point in Ireland.
From the north, it is the starting point of the Wild Atlantic Way. You can find dramatic views, Irish history and much of Ireland’s native wildlife.
It is also one of the filming locations for Star Wars: The Last Jedi.
Baltimore Beacon
The Baltimore Beacon is a 16th-century stone beacon at the entrance to Baltimore Harbour.
Nowadays, the warning beacon offers scenic views over the County Cork coastline and great photo opportunities.
Perfect if you are looking for an afternoon in nature along the coast.
Lough Hyne
To the east of Mizen Peninsula, Lough Hyne is a landlocked lake in County Cork.
Here you can enjoy a variety of water sports and marine wildlife.
Mizen Head offers some of the most dramatic sea views in Ireland. There are many opportunities to learn more about Ireland’s coastal history.
Whether you are planning a day trip from Cork or a week with the family, these County Cork Cottages are the perfect choice for a getaway.
Start your trip to West Cork online with Hogans Irish Cottages.
