Port Guide | Ireland | Worth a Wander
Foynes
David Nakamura | Editor
Published on 2025-11-05
Welcome to Foynes, Ireland-one of those splendidly scrappy maritime towns where history sails in on the breeze and seafood arrives fresher than your last sarcastic commentary about cruise ship Wi-Fi. Nestled neatly along the shimmering, surprisingly photogenic banks of the River Shannon, Foynes once hosted the glamorous flying boats of transatlantic aviation's golden age (think Pan Am meets Humphrey Bogart), and today reminds visitors of that heyday with quirky pride. Sure, Paris gets Hemingway and Madrid gets tapas, but how many towns can boast the birthplace of Irish Coffee-first concocted right here to warm shivering flying boat passengers back in the 1940s? You've got a few days ashore, so kick things off by wandering through the delightfully niche Flying Boat Museum, sampling creamy fresh chowder at an unpretentious riverside pub, and sipping the original caffeinated-and-whiskey-infused treat in its rightful spiritual home. Here in Foynes, nostalgia, seafood, whiskey, and scenic charm blend effortlessly-proving once and for all there's life beyond "top-ten" lists and manufactured charm.
Ireland has 13 Travel Advisories
Stay up to day with regional travel advisories.
Notes from the Editor
Foynes is known for its rich maritime history and the famous Foynes Flying Boat Museum. It's an excellent spot for seafood, with picturesque views of the River Shannon.
Where do cruise ships dock in Foynes?
Port Name Foynes
Country Ireland
Region Europe
Ship Terminal Foynes Ferry Terminal
Port Type Dedicated port
Accessibility Foynes is approximately 1 mile (1.6 km) from the town center, accessible by foot or local transport.
What's the weather like in Foynes?
Best Season to Visit Summer (June to August)
Climate Temperate maritime climate with mild winters and cool summers.
Weather Notes Mild and pleasant during the summer; however, unpredictable rain showers can occur. No extreme weather conditions typical for this region.
Temperature Range 60-70 F (15-21 C)
High Temp 72F
Low Temp 45F
Average Temp 58F
What do I need to know about Foynes?
Language English
Currency Euro (EUR)
Card Widely Accepted 1
Population 1,000 (approx.)
Timezone GMT (UTC+0)
How do I get around Foynes?
Local taxis, shuttle buses, and limited public bus service available.
What are The Best Things to do in Foynes?
Discover what you should do while you're in Foynes.
Historical and cultural landmarks
Foynes Flying Boat Museum
Main Street, Foynes, Co. Limerick, Ireland
Explore the history of aviation and Irish coffee in this unique museum dedicated to flying boats.
Distance from Terminal: 0.2 miles
Ardagh Chalice Visits
N/A
Delve into the heritage of the iconic Ardagh Chalice at nearby archaeological exhibits.
Distance from Terminal: 11.5 miles
Exploration of Glin Castle Gardens
Glin Castle, Glin, Co. Limerick, Ireland
Wander through the stunning gardens of a castle that has hosted generations of Anglo-Irish nobility.
Distance from Terminal: 13 miles
King John's Castle Historical Tour
Nicholas Street, Limerick, Ireland
Wander the walls and discover Europe's medieval past in a legendary 13th-century fortress.
Distance from Terminal: 24.5 miles
Medieval Limerick Walking Tour
Limerick, Ireland
Step back into medieval European history while exploring well-preserved cobblestone streets and landmarks.
Distance from Terminal: 24 miles
Experiences you can't replicate elsewhere
Irish Coffee Experience
Main Street, Foynes, Co. Limerick, Ireland
Discover the authentic birthplace of Irish Coffee with a tasting and demonstration at its origin site.
Distance from Terminal: 0.3 miles
Celtic Music Session at Local Pub
Various pubs, Foynes, Co. Limerick
Immerse yourself in live traditional Irish music sessions only found in local Irish pubs.
Distance from Terminal: 0.5 miles
Medieval Banquet at Bunratty Castle
Bunratty, Co. Clare, Ireland
Experience medieval times through a festive meal and authentic entertainment in a real castle.
Distance from Terminal: 26 miles
West Clare Railway
Moyasta, Co. Clare, Ireland
Travel in time aboard Europe's unique heritage railway showcasing vintage carriages and locomotives.
Distance from Terminal: 36 miles
Celtic Jewelry Workshop
N/A
Participate in authentic Irish jewelry crafting, using ancient Celtic designs exclusive to the region.
Distance from Terminal: 15 miles
Overnight Trips
Loop Head Peninsula Day Trip
Loop Head Peninsula, Co. Clare, Ireland
Visit sea cliffs, lighthouses, and quaint villages in one of Ireland's picturesque coastal regions.
Distance from Terminal: 53 miles
Adventure and Outdoor Activities
Wild Atlantic Way Coastal Walk
Wild Atlantic Way, Co. Limerick
Enjoy scenic hiking routes with breathtaking views of Europe's longest coastal touring route.
Distance from Terminal: 1.2 miles
Kayaking on Shannon Estuary
River Shannon, near Foynes, Ireland
Adventure and embrace nature while kayaking through Europe's longest navigable inland waterway.
Distance from Terminal: 1 miles
Cliffs of Moher Exploration
Liscannor, Co. Clare, Ireland
Explore the majestic cliffs, iconic to Ireland and a major attraction across Europe.
Distance from Terminal: 46 miles
Burren National Park Visit
Burren National Park, Co. Clare, Ireland
Encounter a unique Irish landscape filled with rare flora, captivating geology, and archaeological sites.
Distance from Terminal: 44 miles
A Little Extra
Limerick Milk Market Trip
Mungret Street, Limerick, Ireland
Experience Europe's historical open-air markets with local food, crafts, and culture.
Distance from Terminal: 24 miles
Horse-racing at Limerick Racecourse
Patrickswell, Co. Limerick, Ireland
Engage in Europe's cherished tradition of racing, betting, and vibrant social outings.
Distance from Terminal: 29.5 miles
Ireland Regional Tip
Fishing without purchasing a required fishing license. Unlicensed fishing—even recreationally—is illegal; tourists risk fines, confiscation of fishing equipment, and unpleasant legal encounters.