Paddling near Westport, Co. Mayo

Westport sits in County Mayo on the west coast of Ireland, with Clew Bay — dotted with 365 islands and backed by the unmistakable profile of Croagh Patrick — forming the centrepiece of paddling in the area. Sea kayaking among the bay's islands is the signature experience, while the nearby Erriff River, Newport River, and lakes such as Lough Mask and Lough Conn extend the options inland. The Mayo Blueways network adds marked coastal kayaking trails, including one at Old Head near Louisburgh.