Planning a family trip to Ireland this summer? I’ve explored some of the best family-friendly hotels around the country. Each place has its charm, but they all share a few key features: awesome indoor pools, spacious rooms, and plenty of activities to keep both kids and adults entertained. Whether you’re traveling with little ones, teenagers, or a mix of both, these hotels have everything you need. Here are my top picks!
1. Castleknock Hotel – Dublin
Location: Porterstown Road, D15 Blanchardstown, Ireland
Nearest Airport: Dublin Airport (7 miles)
If you’re flying into Dublin, Castleknock Hotel is a fantastic option. It’s a quick drive from the airport and conveniently located on the city’s north side.
Why I Love It:
The indoor swimming pool is perfect for cooling off after a day of exploring. Plus, there’s a toddler pool for the little ones. Families will enjoy the kids’ play areas, BBQ zone, and an 18-hole golf course nearby. The Earth & Vine Restaurant serves tasty farm-to-fork dishes with a modern Italian twist, and the Lime Tree Bar is a great spot for a drink on the sun terrace.
Extras That Stand Out:
The onsite leisure center features a gym, spa, and offers Elemis/Voya treatments. It’s just 15 minutes from Dublin city center and close to popular spots like Phoenix Park and Dublin Zoo.
Learn More About Castleknock Hotel
2. Hodson Bay Hotel – Athlone, Co. Roscommon
Location: Roscommon Road, Athlone, Ireland
Nearest Airport: Ireland West Airport Knock (46 miles)
Hodson Bay Hotel is a true gem, offering breathtaking views and top-notch amenities. Nestled by Lough Ree, it feels like a peaceful escape surrounded by nature.
What Makes It Special:
Highlights include a 20-meter indoor swimming pool with hydrotherapy jets and a separate kids’ pool. Parents can unwind in the steam room or sauna. The award-winning L’Escale Restaurant serves delicious gourmet dishes, and the Waterfront Bar is perfect for an evening drink.
Activities Beyond the Pool:
For adventure, Baysports, the largest inflatable water park in Ireland, is nearby. You can also take a Viking Boat Tour that starts right by the hotel. The array of soothing on-site spa treatments that keep you going.
3. Amber Springs – Gorey, Co. Wexford
Location: Wexford Road, Gorey, Ireland
Nearest Airport: Waterford Airport (46 miles)
Amber Springs is one of the best family-friendly hotels I’ve ever visited. There’s so much to keep everyone entertained.
Why Families Love It:
With two swimming pools—a main pool that’s 18 meters long and a smaller one for kids—there’s plenty of space to splash around. The indoor Playzone features a bouncy castle, ball pit, and arcade games, while teens can enjoy table tennis and foosball. If you like the outdoors, there are mini-golf, go-karts, and even a petting farm!
Food Worth Writing Home About:
Amber Springs has four restaurants on-site, offering something for every taste. Their burgers are made from beef raised on the hotel’s farm, and the breakfast is absolutely amazing!
Perfect Location:
You’re just a 10-minute stroll from Gorey town and a quick drive to sandy beaches.
Book Your Stay at Amber Springs
4. Dingle Skellig Hotel – Co. Kerry
Location: Beenbane, Dingle, Ireland
Nearest Airport: Kerry Airport (31 miles)
For a family-friendly spot, the Dingle Skellig Hotel is fantastic, especially for those with little ones.
Top Features:
They have a creche for babies from four months to four years, which is a great help for parents. During school breaks, the kids’ club runs fun sessions packed with games and crafts. There’s a special kids’ pool and a cozy movie room for relaxation.
Scenic Dining Experiences:
The Coastguard Restaurant offers fresh seafood and stunning views of Dingle Bay. For something casual, the Blaskets Bar and Binn Bán Brasserie provide tasty bites throughout the day.
Explore Dingle Town:
Don’t miss the nearby aquarium and petting farm. In the evenings, a stroll along the beach is a must—you might catch a glimpse of Fergie, Dingle’s famous dolphin!
Plan Your Visit to Dingle Skellig
5. Parknasilla Resort & Spa – Sneem, Co. Kerry
Location: Sneem, Sneem, Ireland
Nearest Airport: Kerry Airport (29 miles)
Tucked between Kenmare Bay and the stunning Kerry Mountains, Parknasilla Resort & Spa feels like a storybook getaway.
Family Fun:
If the weather turns gloomy, the indoor swimming pool and thermal suites are perfect for entertainment. Teens will love “The Hideout,” with air hockey and table tennis. There are over 500 acres of parkland with walking trails, kayaking, and cycling routes to enjoy together.
Unique Experiences:
One memorable event I attended was the hotel’s murder mystery night—it was a blast! The spa offers amazing treatments with stunning views of the bay.
Delicious Dining:
Don’t miss Pygmalion Restaurant for incredible seafood dishes alongside an impressive wine list.
Find Out More About Parknasilla Resort
6. Inchydoney Island Lodge & Spa – Clonakilty, Co. Cork
Location: Inchydoney Island, Clonakilty, Ireland
Nearest Airport: Cork Airport (23 miles)
For a peaceful coastal getaway, this spot is perfect for families who appreciate nature’s beauty.
Why You Should Check It Out:
The Island Spa features a Seawater Therapy Pool using ocean water from the Atlantic. Guests get free kites, buckets, and spades to enjoy on the gorgeous Blue Flag beach. There are also opportunities for surfing and whale watching nearby.
Accommodation Perks:
Rooms come with private balconies offering breathtaking views of the coastline, plus nice touches like bathrobes and Nespresso machines.
Check Availability at Inchydoney Lodge
7. The Connacht Hotel – Galway
Location: Dublin Road, Galway, Ireland
Nearest Airport: Shannon Airport (41 miles)
Just a stone’s throw from Galway city, The Connacht Hotel offers a fantastic mix of affordability and comfort.
Standout Amenities:
The 20-meter indoor pool is great for lap swimming and fun. Family rooms come with bunk beds and connecting doors for extra privacy. Breakfast and dinner at Reubens Restaurant are hearty and budget-friendly.
Convenient Access:
There’s a bus stop right outside the hotel for easy access to Galway city center. Popular spots like Connacht Rugby and Galway Racecourse are just a short drive away.
Reserve Your Room at The Connacht
Final Thoughts
From fancy resorts to cozy countryside lodges, these hotels showcase the best of Ireland. Whether you’re chilling by the pool, exploring local sights, or enjoying amazing food, you’re sure to create unforgettable memories with your loved ones.
So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your Irish getaway today—you definitely won’t regret it!
