Skellig Michael (Sceilg Mhichíl) is a pyramidal rock island rising from the Atlantic about 12 km off the coast of County Kerry, in Ireland's southwest. It preserves a remarkably intact early-medieval monastery of St Fionán, with drystone beehive-shaped huts (clocháns), and was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996. It became globally famous as the exile world of Ahch-To, Luke Skywalker's refuge in 'Star Wars: The Force Awakens' and 'The Last Jedi.' Landing is possible only from mid-May to the end of September, weather permitting, aboard a small number of permitted boats, and reaching the monastery means climbing 618 uneven stone steps with no handrails. For 2026 the daily number of landing visitors and sailings remains tightly capped, so advance booking is essential.
The summit monastery and six well-preserved beehive huts (clocháns) - a rare survival of early Celtic Christian eremitic life
The 618 uneven, handrail-free stone steps from the pier and the sweeping clifftop views over the Atlantic
Atlantic puffins nesting across the island in summer (roughly late March to early August) - the inspiration for the 'porgs'
Neighbouring Little Skellig, the second-largest gannet colony in the world
The real Star Wars filming terrain, and views toward the South Peak hermitage (approach now largely closed to visitors)
Good to know
SafetyThe 618 steps have no handrails, are steep and slippery when wet. The climb is unsuitable for anyone with heart or respiratory conditions or a fear of heights; beware falling rock and stay on the marked path. Sturdy grippy hiking shoes are essential (no sandals or dress shoes).
SeasonCrossings are frequently cancelled by sea conditions, so build 1-2 buffer days into your trip. Time your visit for roughly late March to early August to see puffins; landing is not possible in winter.
RulesChildren under 12 are not permitted to land, and some operators require age 14+ and a high level of fitness. Landing permits and passenger numbers are strictly limited, so booking weeks or months ahead is effectively mandatory.
MannersThere are no toilets, shops, or shelter on the island. Carry water and a snack, pack out all litter, do not touch or approach the ruins or nesting birds, and follow the OPW guides' safety briefing at the foot of the steps.
CautionBook only through OPW landing-permit operators. Because tickets are scarce, watch for overpriced resale and misleading 'landing' ads, and confirm whether a tour is a landing tour or an eco/sea (non-landing) cruise around the islands.
SafetyThe boarding pier is exposed to swell and can be slippery on embarkation and landing. Bring a waterproof jacket and a spare layer, and take seasickness medication in advance if you are prone to it.
Practical info
Access is by permitted boat, a roughly 45-minute to one-hour crossing from mainland harbours such as Portmagee, plus Valentia, Ballinskelligs and Derrynane, with about 2.5 hours ashore. Admission to the island is free, but each boat operator charges its own fare; the 2026 landing season runs roughly mid-May to the end of September, so confirm sailing schedules, fares and age limits directly with operators and the official OPW page for the latest information.
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