Cliffs of Moher

The Cliffs of Moher are a dramatic sea cliff complex on Ireland’s west coast in County Clare, stretching roughly 14 kilometres and rising to a maximum height of about 214 metres above the Atlantic. They are one of Ireland’s most visited natural attractions and a prominent coastal landmark.

Cliff-top paths and designated viewing platforms afford sweeping views across the Atlantic, with O’Brien’s Tower providing a well-known photo point near the cliffs’ higher central section. The site supports large seabird colonies; puffins and razorbills are commonly seen on the cliff face in spring and summer.

The cliffs are formed from layers of Namurian shale and sandstone deposited during the Carboniferous period and later sculpted by marine erosion; visible strata record hundreds of millions of years of geological history. The area has been accessible to visitors in modern form since the 19th century and has seen infrastructure added to manage visitor safety and conservation.

Located on the western edge of County Clare, the cliffs sit above the Atlantic between Hag’s Head to the south and the platforms near Doolin to the north, with small coastal villages nearby serving as common access points.

• Scale and best viewpoint: The cliffs run for about 14 kilometres and reach a maximum height of 214 metres above the Atlantic, with the best panoramic views near O'Brien's Tower.
• Wildlife and seasonality: Home to large seabird colonies including razorbills and puffins; spring and early summer are the prime months for birdwatching but also the busiest for visitors.

What to See #

• O'Brien's Tower: A 19th century stone viewing tower built by Cornelius O'Brien standing near the highest central section of the cliffs; a common photo vantage and short walk from the main visitor path.
• Cliffs of Moher Visitor Centre: A visitor centre and exhibition built into the hillside that provides audio-visual displays, ticketing, and sheltered access to the cliff trails; opened in the 2000s and designed to minimize visual impact on the cliffs.
• Headlands and viewpoints: Distinct headlands and named sections along the 14-kilometre stretch including Hag's Head at the southern end and the north-facing platforms near Doolin; each offers different cliff profiles and sea views.