Overview
Long Island (Irish: Inis Fada, ‘long island’) is exactly that: a low ridge of land in Roaringwater Bay, a few kilometres end to end but barely a kilometre across, reached by ferry from Colla Pier near Schull. Between the shingle beaches are small fields going back to gorse, and a scatter of tumbledown cottages and stores.
From the landing, use the surfaced public road for a walk and keep out of fields and private lanes. Bring everything you need and do not count on shops, cafés or toilets being available.
History & heritage
The island once held far more people than it does now. Before the Great Famine the Roaringwater Bay islands together held close to 5,000; Long Island alone recorded 305 in 1841. Emigration hollowed that out over the following century.
A modest copper-mining community worked the eastern side in the early 19th century. Leave the exposed headlands and old mine workings undisturbed. Out on the eastern tip stands the island’s navigation light, known locally as the Beacon, marking the approach for boats running into Schull Harbour.
Getting there & around
Explore West Cork lists a ferry from Colla Pier, a few minutes’ drive from Schull. Check the current crossing and confirm how you will return before setting out, and keep clear of the working pier. Services can thin out in winter and be held up by weather, so check a day or two ahead and note the last boat back.
On the island, walking is the way to go. Stay on the public road.
What to see & do
- Walk the public road. Follow the surfaced road from the landing, enjoy the sea views across Roaringwater Bay, then retrace your steps. Keep off private land and exposed shore paths.
- Watch the water. Seals, otters and dolphins are sometimes seen from the shore. Bring binoculars.
- The beaches. The sheltered shingle coves are quiet spots to stop. The water stays cold year-round, so if you swim, stay close to shore.
Practical tips
- Accessibility: rough tracks, uneven ground and unfenced drops near the cliffs mean the island is not suitable for wheelchairs or buggies.
- Come self-sufficient: pack food, water and wet-weather gear. Atlantic weather turns fast, so check the forecast and keep off the cliff edges in high wind.
- Nearby: back on the mainland, Schull has the lunch options, and the boat network makes it easy to add a hop to Sherkin or Cape Clear another day.