Kayaking in Leinster: Best Spots Outside Dublin

While Dublin gets most of the attention, the rest of Leinster offers some of the best inland and coastal kayaking in Ireland. From the Wicklow Mountains to the River Barrow, the Midlands lakes to the Wexford coastline, there are routes for every level of paddler within easy reach of the capital. This guide covers the top locations across Leinster's twelve counties (excluding Dublin, which has its own dedicated guide). Browse the full range of kayaks for sale at Skipjak.

The River Barrow Navigation, Carlow/Kilkenny/Laois

Best for: All levels, multi-day trips, peaceful river paddling

The Barrow is Ireland's second-longest river and one of the finest canoe and kayak trails in the country. The navigation section from Athy to St Mullins (approximately 65 km) is flat, slow-moving, and passes through beautiful countryside with regular lock-keeper's cottages, old stone bridges, and riverside villages.

The river is wide enough to feel open but sheltered by its valley, making it suitable for beginners in calm conditions. For multi-day trips, there are camping spots and B&Bs along the route. The section from Graiguenamanagh to St Mullins is particularly scenic, with the Blackstairs Mountains rising to the east.

Launch points: Athy, Carlow town, Bagenalstown, Graiguenamanagh Conditions: Flat water with gentle current. Avoid after heavy rain when levels rise.

Glendalough Upper Lake, County Wicklow

Best for: All levels, mountain scenery, short paddles

Glendalough's Upper Lake sits in a dramatic glacial valley surrounded by steep cliffs and oak woodland. It is small (approximately 800 metres long) but stunningly beautiful — the kind of place where you stop paddling just to look around.

The lake is shallow and sheltered, making it accessible to beginners. However, access requires carrying your kayak approximately 1.5 km from the car park along the boardwalk trail. A lightweight kayak or inflatable is practical here; a heavy fishing kayak is not.

Launch point: Western end of the Upper Lake (via Miners' Road trail) Parking: Glendalough Visitor Centre car park (paid) Conditions: Sheltered, calm. Can be busy with walkers in summer.

Lough Owel, County Westmeath

Best for: All levels, clear water, accessible Midlands paddling

Lough Owel is a spring-fed lake near Mullingar with remarkably clear water and a peaceful atmosphere. It is approximately 5 km long and surrounded by farmland and woodland, with several small islands to explore.

The lake has good access from the public beach on the eastern shore and is popular with anglers, swimmers, and paddlers. It is an excellent option for a half-day paddle in the heart of the Midlands — close to the M6 motorway and easy to reach from Dublin, Galway, or Athlone.

Launch point: Lough Owel public beach (eastern shore) Parking: Beach car park Conditions: Moderate-sized lake. Can be choppy in strong westerly winds.

Hook Head Peninsula, County Wexford

Best for: Intermediate paddlers, coastal scenery, sea caves

The Hook Peninsula offers sheltered coastal paddling on its western (harbour) side and more exposed Atlantic conditions on its eastern coast. The western shore between Duncannon and Slade is relatively sheltered and features rocky coves, old fishing harbours, and the dramatic Norman tower at Hook Head lighthouse.

For experienced paddlers, the eastern coast has sea caves and cliff scenery, but is exposed to southerly and south-easterly swells. Always check conditions and paddle with company on the open coast.

Launch points: Duncannon beach, Slade harbour, Fethard-on-Sea Conditions: Western side sheltered; eastern side exposed. Check marine forecast.

The Royal Canal (Maynooth to Mullingar), Kildare/Westmeath

Best for: Beginners, flat water, long-distance paddling

The Royal Canal continues westward from Dublin through Maynooth, Enfield, and on to Mullingar. This section passes through quiet countryside with regular access points, making it ideal for beginners who want flat, sheltered water without tidal concerns.

The canal is narrow and completely calm — wind has minimal effect. It is an excellent training ground for building paddle fitness and technique before moving to open water. The towpath alongside provides easy access for launching and landing at multiple points.

Launch points: Maynooth harbour, Enfield, Mullingar harbour Conditions: Flat water, fully sheltered. Suitable for all levels year-round.

Lough Derg (Eastern Shore), Tipperary/Clare/Galway border

Best for: Intermediate paddlers, island hopping, large lake paddling

Lough Derg is the southernmost of the Shannon lakes and one of the largest in Ireland. The eastern shore (Tipperary side) offers sheltered bays, wooded islands, and charming lakeside villages including Terryglass, Dromineer, and Garrykennedy.

The lake is large enough to develop significant waves in strong winds, so stay close to shore and check the forecast. The sheltered bays around Holy Island and Illaunmore are excellent for exploring by kayak, with early Christian ruins accessible only from the water.

Launch points: Dromineer, Garrykennedy, Terryglass, Killaloe Conditions: Large open lake — can be rough in wind. Sheltered bays are calmer.

Courtown to Cahore Point, County Wexford

Best for: Intermediate paddlers, sandy coast, summer paddling

The Wexford coast between Courtown and Cahore offers long sandy beaches, gentle surf, and relatively sheltered conditions compared to the more exposed Atlantic coast. It is a good introduction to coastal kayaking for paddlers who have built confidence on inland water.

Launch from Courtown harbour for a sheltered start, then paddle south along the coast. The sandy bottom and gradual depth make this a forgiving stretch if you capsize. Best in summer when southerly swells are smaller.

Launch point: Courtown harbour Conditions: Sandy coast, moderate exposure. Best in calm or light offshore winds.

Lough Ennell, County Westmeath

Best for: All levels, wildlife, quiet Midlands lake

Lough Ennell is a smaller, quieter alternative to nearby Lough Owel. It is approximately 4 km long with wooded shores, reed beds, and good birdwatching. The Lilliput Adventure Centre on the western shore provides easy access and sometimes offers kayak hire.

The lake is sheltered enough for beginners on calm days and offers enough distance for a satisfying paddle. The southern end near Belvedere House has particularly attractive woodland shoreline.

Launch points: Lilliput (western shore), Belvedere House area Conditions: Moderate-sized lake, generally calm. Sheltered by surrounding terrain.

Planning Tips for Kayaking in Leinster

The Midlands are underrated. Westmeath, Offaly, and Laois have excellent lake paddling that is often quieter and more accessible than coastal options.

River levels matter. The Barrow, Nore, and Suir are all affected by rainfall. Check water levels before river trips, especially in autumn and winter.

Carry your kayak if needed. Some of the best spots (Glendalough, smaller mountain lakes) require a short portage from the car park. A lightweight kayak or trolley makes this manageable.

Summer weekends are busy. Popular spots like Blessington, Glendalough, and Hook Head get crowded in July and August. Midweek or early morning paddles are quieter.

Combine with other activities. Many Leinster locations are near walking trails, heritage sites, and good pubs — making a kayak trip part of a full day out.

For a versatile kayak suited to Leinster's lakes, rivers and sheltered coast, browse our range of kayaks for sale.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best river for kayaking in Leinster?

The River Barrow Navigation from Athy to St Mullins is widely considered the finest kayak trail in Leinster — flat, scenic, and suitable for all levels with regular access points.

Can I kayak on the lakes in Westmeath?

Yes — Lough Owel, Lough Ennell, and Lough Derravaragh are all accessible for recreational kayaking. Check local access points and any permit requirements before launching.

Is the Wexford coast good for sea kayaking?

The Wexford coast offers more sheltered conditions than the Atlantic coast, making it a good stepping stone for paddlers moving from inland water to coastal kayaking. Hook Head and Courtown are popular starting points.

How far is the Barrow from Dublin?

Athy (the northern start of the Barrow Navigation) is approximately 80 km from Dublin — about an hour's drive via the M7/M9.

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