If you are planning on visiting Salthill this year, you have come to the right place! Here we have prepared for you the ultimate guide of where to go and what to do in this gorgeous seaside village. Check it out here.
Whether you are looking for recommendations for dinner and drinks, live entertainment, or some fun family-friendly activities, Salthill offers something for everyone. A lively seaside atmosphere, famous historic landmarks, welcoming community spirit - you name it, it’s got it, and with loads of fantastic cafés, restaurants and bars scattered about, you’ll see exactly why this is one of the most popular holiday destinations in Galway.
In addition to its close proximity to the city centre, Salthill’s idyllic location along Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way makes it the ultimate gateway to Connemara and the Irish West Coast.
With every step you take there is something new and exciting to see, from people leaping off the iconic Blackrock Diving Tower to the buzzing conversations of al fresco diners. Discover all our favourite parts about Salthill with This is Galway’s exclusive Salthill guide.
above: photo by Mary McGraw via Ireland's Content Pool
What to Do in Salthill:
Visit Tribe Irish Gin School
Location: 139 Upper Salthill Rd // more here
Ireland’s largest Gin School began during the Covid pandemic by four friends who wanted to bring a new experience to Galway City. Aside from enjoying the refreshing taste of their gin, at the award-winning Tribe Gin School you can opt to join their tasting tours or masterclasses. These Gin School Masterclass will give you the chance to learn about the Gin distilling process and how different botanicals, citrus fruits, florals and spices can influence the flavour of gin and from there you can create, distil and bottle your own unique gin recipe to bring home with you -pretty amazing right? Book your gin experience here.
Have a Beach Day!
Something that is considered a bucket list item when it comes to holidaying in Galway is taking a dive off the yellow Blackrock Diving Tower in Salthill. We’re sure you have seen it on Instagram or Facebook while you have been planning your Galway itinerary and now it’s your turn to take the plunge yourself! If you’re not feeling up for the challenge, Salthill’s other beaches are super beautiful and are all safe for swimming with lifeguard stations nearby. These sandy beaches are ideal for sunbathing, sandcastle building, picnicking and more so weather permitting be sure to spend a day on them.
Check out Galway Atlantaquaria
In Salthill, you’ll find Galway Atlantaquaria which is Ireland’s largest native species aquarium and an afternoon spent here is a brilliant activity for all ages. In particular, if you have kids this is a great way to keep them entertained while also teaching them about Ireland native sea life through clear and interesting displays, informed helpful staff and exciting live presentations and animal interaction sessions. Afterwards, we highly recommend treating yourself to a delicious ice cream from The Creamery.
above: photo courtesy of Galway Atlantaquaria
Walk the famous Salthill Prom
Whether you walk it all or simply stroll a little bit of it, Salthill’s 2km Promenade is a must-do in Galway. The views are spectacular regardless of the time of day however if you are on a romantic break, walking it while the sun sets with your significant other is a moment you’ll never forget. On your walk you’ll encounter people of all ages and their dogs enjoying this lovely seaside walkway and fresh sea air. When you get to the end of the Prom by Blackrock Diving Tower don’t forget to kick the wall across from the diving tower for luck!
Discover all there is to do at Leisureland
If the weather isn’t suitable for a day at the beach no worries because there is always something to do at Salthill’s activity and events centre - Leisureland. Open all year round, it has a large public swimming pool with a slide and kids pool as well as a steam room and sauna. Outdoors, you’ll find a golf adventure course that consists of 9-holes and is an ideal sunny day activity in Galway. As we mentioned earlier, Leisureland also hosts events throughout the year and if you are interested in checking out who is performing during your time in Salthill please hit the link here to check out their entertainment programme.
Go on rides at Curry’s Funpark
A great activity for families coming to Salthill is spending a day on the rides at Currys Funpark. There are loads to choose from, and they have something to feed everyone’s adventurous soul. Rides here include the carousel, sky wheel, wacky worm roller coaster, the waltzer, flying swinger, toy town, tea cups, XLR8, icejet, fun factory and more! Currys Funpark is open all week long from 12pm until late (weather depending), so if you have children with you be sure to check them out!
above: photo by Bernice Naughton via Ireland's Content Pool
Where to Eat in Salthill:
Blackrock Cottage
Location: Salthill Promenade // check them out
Since it opened its doors at the end of 2022, Blackrock Cottage has been winning rave reviews from guests and food critics alike. Situated beside the iconic Blackrock Diving Tower, the space blends breath-taking views of Galway Bay with a cosy and intimate setting. The breakfast, brunch and lunch offering is very popular with diners, but Blackrock Cottage’s award-winning head chef, Martin O’Donnell, has also created a beautiful evening dinner menu that showcases the very best of what Galway has to offer. Here, there is also an extensive wine list to choose from along with a great tasting range of cocktails.
Ground & Co
Location: Atlantaquaria Toft Park // check them out
Perfectly located near all of Salthill’s top family attractions, this café is incredibly kid-friendly and perfect for all family holidays and trips to the seaside. Ground & Co exudes a cosy and wholesome ambiance and its staff go above and beyond in all they do. Menus here feature a delightful mix of breakfast and deli options, sandwiches, salads, pastries and of course the ever popular Leroy’s sausage rolls. Additionally, they offer a fabulous selection of dishes for vegans and vegetarians. All their baked goods are made fresh in-house every morning and are the perfect side for your morning cuppa.
above: photo from Ground & Co by Ciarán MacChoncarraige
Pier 56
Location: Galway Bay Hotel // check them out
Pier 56 is the latest addition to Galway Bay Hotel fantastic dining options. This casual dining café and restaurant offers incredible all-day treats. For the morning prom-walkers they have freshly baked scones, pastries and sweet treats served with the perfect speciality coffee made to your liking. Later in the day, their menus display popular dishes with an innovative twist. Working with local food producers, the Executive Head Chef has filled these menus with the perfect mix of choices ensuring there is something for everyone.
Barnacles Bar and Kitchen
Location: 163 Upper Salthill // check them out
The famed duo behind Linnane’s Lobster Bar and Flaggy Shore Oysters, Mark Commins and Conor Graham have partnered up once again to bring you their newest seafood venture Barnacles Bar and Kitchen in Salthill. Through this bar and restaurant, they set out with the aim to introduce locals and tourists alike to a unique dining experience that takes influence from their proximity to the sea and their location along the Wild Atlantic Way and there can be no doubt that they have succeeded. The interior is elegantly decorated with floor to ceiling bookshelves and low lighting that sets a cosy atmosphere throughout.
Osaka
Location: 157-159 Upper Salthill // check them out
If you like Japanese and Asian cuisine you are going to love Osaka! One of the best Asian restaurants in all of Galway, they’ve got a menu that is packed with delicious sushi, bento boxes, stir fries, curries and lots more, additionally their Tiger beer especially hits the spot after a long day. This restaurant has a terrace that gets the sun at the end of the day making it the perfect spot from which to wrap up your day in Salthill. With ample gluten free and vegan/vegetarian options to choose from, Osaka is a must-try in Galway.
above: photo courtesy of Osaka
Magnetti’s
Location: Unit 1, Upper Salthill Rd // check them out
There's no better place to savour the flavours of delicious authentic Italian dishes while enjoying views of Galway Bay than at Magnetti's. This Italian pizzeria and café have built up an incredible reputation for their homemade Italian desserts and use of authentic Italian ingredients in all their dishes. Whether you call in to sample their perfectly brewed coffee and freshly baked Italian delicacies or looking to enjoy a satisfying afternoon meal of pizzas or bruschettas with a beautiful blend of toppings, you are guaranteed deliciousness.
LANA Asian Street Food
Location: 224 Upper Salthill // check them out
Bringing the tastes, colours and smells of Asian street food to Ireland, the team at LANA Asian Street Food come from Thailand, Indonesia, China and Malaya and the culinary nuances from these different areas are reflected throughout the dishes on the menu. From spicy dishes such as Sweet Chilli Chicken to creamy, slow-cooked curries and noodles packed with flavour, it’s hard to pick a favourite. With fragrances and flavours that will make your mouth water just from reading the menu, you’ll find a huge range of dishes to suit all tastes at LANA in Salthill.
The Creamery
Location: The Promenade // check them out
Evenings spent by the seaside are the setting to many a-happy memory in Salthill, and one spot that plays an important role in creating these moments is The Creamery. This is a casual and family-orientated café, bistro and ice cream parlour that has loads to offer guests, whether they are on the go or want to sit-in and unwind. Their food and drink menus accommodate a diverse palate and they’ve just added pizza to their evening menu giving you even more options to love. Their ice cream is the best in the area and they’ve now got a vegan ice cream to offer too.
above: photo courtesy of The Creamery
BlackCat
Location: 179 Upper Salthill // check them out
If you’re enjoying a romantic break in Salthill with your significant other, BlackCat should absolutely be on your list of places to visit. It really is the ideal intimate date night spot. Ambient jazz music will set the atmosphere for the evening as you and your plus one dine on exquisite tapas, that are all made from locally sourced produce, paired with a glass or two of their delicious wines. BlackCat earned their impeccable reputation for their inviting hospitality and phenomenal dining experiences, so trust us when we tell you that you seriously need to check them out.
Gourmet Food Parlour
Location: 14 Lenaboy Gardens // check them out
Open daily with a fabulous range of menus - breakfast, brunch, dinner, desserts and kids - Gourmet Food Parlour caters to everyone making it a go-to restaurant for pre and post beach day activities. The kids menu takes into consideration all of the demands of young children and on the weekend their brunch menu is ideal for occasions when you want to catch up with friends or family after a long week of work. Gourmet Food Parlour also has a stunning drinks selection of cocktails, mocktails, spritzers, bubbles, wines and more which are a great addition to an evening out in Salthill.
Chef Laura Rosso
Location: GCI Building, Grattan Rd // check them out
The only restaurant in Galway city and Salthill that offers authentic Brazilian cuisine is Chef Laura Rosso and they truly are in a league of their own. The food here is incredible and we highly recommend trying their Brazilian lunch at least once during your time in Salthill. If the sun is shining during your visit, sit outdoors in the gorgeous decking area and soak in the sunshine while you can. At Chef Laura Rosso they have a number of fabulous plant based vegetarian options that are well worth the trip to Salthill alone.
above: photo courtesy of Chef Laura Rosso
The Pear Tree Café & Bistro
Location: The Nest Boutique Hostel, 107-109 Upper Salthill Rd // check them out
At The Pear Tree Café & Bistro they are open from 7.30am every morning to bring all early risers fresh speciality SOMA coffee as well as homemade pastries, fruit juices, smoothies and delectable sourdough loaded toasties. Everything on the menus at this cosy café has been made using the very best locally sourced ingredients including breads from Sullivan’s in Oughterard, organic mixed leaves from Mill House Farm and house specialty coffee from Soma Coffee Company. The Pear Tree Café & Bistro is the sister business of Chef Laura Rosso and was awarded Café of the Year in Connacht 2023 so you know it’s going to be good.
Blackrock Bar
Location: Salthill Hotel // check them out
Salthill Hotel's elegant Blackrock Bar is named after the iconic Salthill landmark and it boasts fantastic views of Galway Bay and the Clare Hills beyond. When the weather is good we highly recommend dining outdoors on their terrace so that you can admire the ocean view as you dine. Open all week long, whether you are after brunch, lunch, dinner or even just an evening cocktail, Blackrock Bar provides an unforgettable experience every time and their team always goes above and beyond to cater to your requirements.
above: photo courtesy of Salthill Hotel
Where to get a Coffee in Salthill:
Ré Coffee + Design
Location: 137 Upper Salthill // check them out
Bringing together all of our favourite things into one space, Ré Coffee + Design is an inviting coffee shop that offers a stunning selection of speciality coffee from Bell Lane roastery in Mullingar, natural wines, and gifts. All of the fun, quirky, and cute cards, crafts, artwork, etc. on their shelves are the creations of local and Irish artists. Additionally, they offer tasty locally-made treats, including cookies, pastries and sandwiches from Hapi Bakery.
Kali Coffee Bar
Location: 133 Upper Salthill // check them out
When you’re in Salthill, brighten your day even further with a visit to the lovely Kali Coffee Bar. Here you can sample coffee from an award-winning barista, as co-owner Enda Johnstone last year won the Irish Brewers Cup and went on to represent Ireland on the global stage! Not just for coffee nerds, though, as the team here are passionate about making their space as accessible as possible, so they are dog-friendly and even offer service through Irish Sign Language.
above: photo from Kali Coffee Bar, by Ciarán MacChoncarraige
Gourmet Tart Co
Location: Jameson Court, Salthill Upper // check them out
Both family-friendly and dog-friendly, Gourmet Tart Co has been one of the most popular cafés to visit after walking the Prom especially as it's open from 7am every morning! Offering both takeaway and an indoor seating area with tables and chairs, this café is a great option regardless of whether you are looking for food and coffee on the go or to take the weight off your feet and enjoy a sit-in cuppa with pals.
Beachfront Barista
Location: In front of Galway Bay Hotel // check them out
In a fabulous location along Salthill’s Promenade, Beachfront Barista at Galway Bay Hotel is a lovely coffee dock that is open seasonally. With a gorgeous al fresco seating area that offers stunning views of Galway Bay, this unique coffee counter is just the place to get some refreshments after walking the promenade or a post-swim treat. Be sure to bring along your dog if possible because the team here would love to meet them!
above: photo courtesy of Galway Bay Hotel
Where to Stay in Salthill:
Galway Bay Sea View Apartments
Location: The Promenade / book your stay here
They aren’t known as sea view apartments for nothing! From your private balcony at Galway Bay Seaview Apartments look out at unrivalled views of Galway Bay and the Clare Hills. They provide an idyllic break from everyday life and looking out over the bay you really will forget all your worries. With spectacular views guaranteed and all the comforts of home at hand, what more could you want? Whether you’re travelling solo, in a couple or group of up to 6 people, these self catering apartments can cater to your every need.
Shoreline Apartments
Location: Quincentennial Drive, Salthill / book your stay here
Experience the latest addition to Salthill’s holiday scene at Shoreline Apartments. These stunning self-catering apartments offer a level of elegance and style at its finest. From the sleek and modern décor to its high end finishes, you’ll feel as though you are living in the lap of luxury. They’ve thought of everything to ensure that your stay with them is as comfortable as possible. Additionally, their penthouse apartments offer another touch of luxury with floor-to-ceiling glass doors that lead out to a terrace that is perfect for enjoying drinks as the sun sets.
above: photo courtesy of Shoreline Apartments
BlackCat
Location: 179 Upper Salthill / book your stay here
BlackCat is one of those places that once you find it you never want to leave. Thankfully for us, (and you) it’s home to a number of boutique guest bedrooms meaning that you can stay for as long as you’d like. These rooms are compact but tastefully designed with special considerations for the original features and character of the 200 year old building. Due to the size of the rooms, these bedrooms are adults only. Downstairs is BlackCat’s award-winning tapas bar and it’s the perfect place to immerse yourself in the buzz of Salthill’s community spirit while enjoying delicious small plates and wine.
Salthill Hotel
Location: The Promenade / book your stay here
Merging 4 star comforts with unforgettable views of Galway Bay, Salthill Hotel offers 161 bedrooms, comprising their signature seaview rooms, double/twin rooms, triple and family rooms. During your holiday with them, hotel guests can enjoy free access to the Ocean Fitness Health Club which includes a 25m indoor swimming pool, an 18m hydrotherapy pool, a whirlpool, sauna and steam room. Guests can also take advantage of the hotel’s fabulous dining options including The Prom Restaurant and Blackrock Bar, which are the perfect spots to retreat to after a long day exploring the surrounding area.
Galway Bay Hotel
Location: Salthill Road Lower / book your stay here
The 4-star luxury Galway Bay Hotel is located at the midpoint of Galway’s Wild Atlantic Way. Thanks to its picturesque location on the Promenade, this hotel has an abundance of fantastic rooms that offer spectacular ocean views, as well as classic rooms, family rooms and their stunning Galway Bay Suites. As well as its accommodation options, this hotel is home to beauty rooms, leisure centre and pool and bars & restaurants. Here, you’ll find the gorgeous Pier 56 which offers wholesome lunches, delicious evening meals, along with sweet treats and pastries from the coffee counter.
above: photo courtesy of Galway Bay Hotel
Where to get a Drink in Salthill:
O’Reillys Bar & Kitchen
Location: 232 Upper Salthill // check them out
As the only place in Salthill that’s open from 10am until late 7 days a week, O’Reillys Bar & Kitchen truly has something for everyone. Their ‘side-bar’ is the perfect hideaway for a cosy fire-lit catchup with friends over a creamy pint of Guinness and you’ll find the bar well stocked with all your favourite whiskey, gin, vodka and rums. With its famous rooftop bar that offers spectacular views over Galway Bay, this is the perfect place in Salthill for meeting friends, family or coworkers no matter the weather or time of year.
above: photo from O'Reillys Bar & Kitchen, by Ciarán MacChoncarraige
PJ Flaherty’s Pub
Location: 82 Lower Salthill // check them out
Experience all the comforts of a traditional Irish pub and beer garden at PJ Flaherty’s Pub in Salthill. Their lovely beer garden is decorated with pink cherry blossoms and makes for a fabulous backdrop for your pints on a sunny day. If there are some live sports you want to watch when you are in Salthill make your way to PJs and you’ll be among terrific company while tuning into all the action. This pub is also dog friendly so if you fancy something a bit stronger than a coffee post walk this might be the place for you!
The Oslo Bar
Location: 226 Upper Salthill // check it out
Home to both the Galway Bay Brewery and Micil Distillery, at The Oslo all guests can enjoy a proper taste of Galway in the form of craft beers, gins, whiskeys and even poitín! Aside from enjoying some of the finest Galway drinks products, you can also enjoy their full range of international beers and a large food menu which is served from 12 until 10 daily. Groups and families can relax and catch up in their front bar, alternatively be sure to hang out in their large beer hall which comes alive during large sport fixtures as the space fills with fans eager to watch the live sports from one of the biggest screens in Galway.
above: photo courtesy of The Oslo Bar
O’Connor’s Bar
Location: Salthill House // check them out
A family bar through and through, O’Connor’s Bar has made its name famous thanks to its iconic quirky interiors and Irish hospitality. As soon as you step in the door you’ll be awestruck by the sheer amount of Irish memorabilia and oddities that decorate the bar from floor to ceiling, it’s a truly unique space. With live music every night at 9.30pm and traditional Irish music sessions on Monday to Thursday from 7.30pm, if you want the proper traditional Irish bar experience, few do it better than O’Connor’s Bar in Salthill.
Wards
Location: 17 Lower Salthill // check them out
Wards is a welcoming hotel and pub located on the edge of Salthill and only a ten minute stroll from the city centre. On top of their guest rooms and accommodation service, they are home to a snug bar that serves one of the best pints of Guinness in Salthill. (So, you know you have to give it a taste!) Tucked away from the bustle of Salthill’s promenade, Wards is a great place to unwind with a cold one after a busy day. Additionally, they host a traditional music session every Wednesday night so we highly recommend that you pay them a visit.
Feature photo by Chaosheng Zhang.
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