Dun Laoghaire

Paddling out to Dalkey Island in a kayak feels like sneaking into Ireland's history through the back door while Mother Nature watches amused from the wings. Sitting just a short splash from posh Dalkey village-famous as U2 turf and celebrity hideaway-the island has been hanging around, largely ignored, since Viking raiders first ogled Dublin's coastline. Nowadays, it's guarded mostly by curious seals who regard you with bemusement, and a few ruins that whisper tales of ancient monks and wayward pirates. For the best experience, arrive early, preferably before mid-morning unleashes the Instagrammers and weekend warriors, and plan your paddle at least a week ahead-good kayaks, unlike good whiskey, don't age well unused on the shelf. Budget around €50 per person, bring a dry bag for your snacks and camera, and pack a waterproof jacket because, let's face it, Irish weather is as predictable as a Game of Thrones plot twist. But it's worth braving unpredictable clouds and the occasional startled seabird; because paddling over teal-green waters to stroll across deserted island trails, past medieval churches and lonely Martello towers, is just eccentric enough to feel slightly rebellious. Plus, there's always that slim chance you'll run into Bono paddling by, humming something earnestly melancholic.

Climb aboard a gloriously impractical wooden sailing ship-complete with creaky decks and ropes begging to tangle your feet-and channel your inner pirate (or at least your inner mildly seasick history buff). Traditional sailing tours from the Harbour offer a compelling glimpse into the area's salty maritime past, harking back to an era when sailors navigated by stars rather than screens, and scurvy still counted as a genuine lifestyle hazard. Book a spot by late afternoon to catch golden-hour views dancing across the sails, and make sure you secure your reservation at least a week out-these vessels are charmingly small and popular enough to fill up faster than your souvenir grog cup. Expect to shell out around $50-$75 for a two-hour voyage that feels like a delightful anachronism in our tech-obsessed age. Come prepared with layers, sturdy shoes (trust me, flip-flops and decks slick with sea spray are a recipe for questionable glory), and perhaps a discreet flask of rum if you're feeling especially authentic. Ultimately, whether you're drawn in by the romance of maritime history or just the irresistible chance to boast about your brief career as a "traditional sailor," it's worth enduring any blisters, mild nausea, or touristy cliches-after all, few adventures offer as much charm, character, or bragging rights as sailing off into a rosy sunset aboard something that was essentially designed centuries ago.