Around Dingle
Dingle is the only town on the peninsula and as such is the main hub for the fishing and tourism industries, which both play a major part in local life. You can learn about the history of the area by visiting West Kerry Museum (Musaem Chorca Dhuibhne) in Ballyferriter, or The Blasket Centre in Dún Chaoin at the tip of the peninsula.
Learn about everything going on in the coastal waters by visiting Oceanworld Aquarium on the quayside in Dingle, home to Ireland's largest collection of sharks.
Many people who come to stay in the various Dingle hotels are keen to take advantage of the natural environment. There are many exciting walks to enjoy in the area, including a route around Dunbeg Fort, an impressive example of a promontory fort that dates back to 500BC. Perhaps catch the Blasket Islands Ferry from Dún Chaoin to Great Blasket Island to admire the unspoilt scenery and wildlife, and discover the history of this now uninhabited island lying just off the coast.
Fungie the dolphin
Without doubt, one of Dingle's most famous residents is a common bottlenose dolphin. Affectionately named Fungie by the locals, the creature has been appearing in in the waters off Dingle for around 30 years. A bronze statue of Fungie has pride of place on the town's pier and a number of tourist boats go out each day to meet him.
Shopping
There's a great choice of specialist shops in Dingle and in villages throughout the peninsula. Get a taste for the Irish fiddle during a visit to Dingle Music Shop, find a unique memento of your trip at Brian De Staic Jeweller or Dingle Crystal, or perhaps pick up some Irish Gouda with seaweed at The Little Cheese Shop.
Eating and drinking
With a great selection of pubs, restaurants and hotels in Dingle, you won't be short of dining options. Seafood is, of course, a local speciality and Doyle's Seafood Restaurant, Out of the Blue and The Boatyard Restaurant are just some of the fantastic establishments in the area serving beautifully fresh produce.
Idás restaurant is known for its modern Irish and French-inspired cuisine, while The Global Village offers friendly service and an exciting range of dishes. Murphy's Ice Cream and Kool Scoops of Dingle both offer a great choice of sweet offerings that are perfect for a sunny day.