Craving sea air, spectacular views, and the easy rhythm of coastal village life? Welcome to Salthill, Galway’s effortlessly charming seaside suburb. Whether you're drawn by the views of Galway Bay or the friendliness of local hospitality, this buzzy beachside destination has it all—and then some.
Located just a stone’s throw from Galway City, Salthill is both a serene escape and a vibrant hub, known for its sweeping promenade, storied diving spots, and legendary sunsets. As part of the Wild Atlantic Way, it offers an ideal jumping-off point for exploring Connemara and the beauty of the Irish west coast. But Salthill isn’t just a stopover—it’s a destination in its own right. From iconic landmarks like the Blackrock Diving Tower, where brave folk plunge into the Atlantic, to the clink of glasses over seafood platters in stylish bistros, every corner of Salthill tells a story.
Whether you're here for a weekend getaway or as part of a longer Galway itinerary, Salthill promises a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. Explore more with This is Galway’s insider guide to Salthill—your curated map to the very best the village has to offer.
above: Blackrock Diving Tower on a summer's day | photo by Mary McGraw, Ireland's Content Pool
Experience the best of Salthill
Just minutes from Galway City, the coastal village of Salthill offers a vibrant blend of natural beauty, seaside charm, and family-friendly attractions. Whether you're planning a romantic weekend escape, a family holiday, or an adventurous solo retreat, Salthill is the kind of destination that invites you to slow down, soak it all in, and stay a little longer.
No trip to Galway is complete without experiencing the thrill of diving off the famed Blackrock Diving Tower in Salthill. This yellow concrete structure has become a bucket-list staple and an Instagram darling—its bold silhouette framed by the Atlantic Ocean. Even if you’re not up for the leap, the surrounding beaches offer something for everyone: safe swimming waters with lifeguards on duty, soft sands perfect for sunbathing and sandcastle-building, and plenty of space for seaside picnics.
Stretching for 2km along the coastline, the Salthill Promenade is one of Galway’s most beloved walks. Locals and visitors alike are drawn to its panoramic views of Galway Bay and the Burren hills beyond. For an unforgettable moment, time your stroll to coincide with the sunset—and don’t forget to follow tradition by kicking the wall at the Prom’s end near Blackrock Tower for good luck. Located along the Promenade is Galway Atlantaquaria, Ireland’s largest native-species aquarium. For families or curious minds, it offers a fascinating deep dive into the country’s underwater world. Hands-on exhibits, knowledgeable staff, and live presentations make it a standout rainy-day activity in Salthill. Kids will love the interactive touch pools and daily feeding demos, while adults can appreciate the conservation efforts and captivating marine life displays. Bonus: you’re just a short stroll from The Creamery, where you’ll find some of the best ice cream in Galway.
With blooms flown in fresh from Holland daily, Go Dutch Flowers in Salthill create exquisite arrangements that are ideal for celebrating life’s big and small moments. Whether you're surprising a loved one or picking up a bouquet to brighten your hotel room, this boutique flower shop brings a burst of beauty and elegance to the Salthill experience.
above: Tribe Irish Gin School, is an educational and fun way to pass an afternoon | photo by Ciarán MacChoncarraige
Did you know that Salthill is home to one of the most unique experiences in Ireland? Hands down one of the best immersive experiences in Galway, Tribe Irish Gin School invites you to go beyond sipping and step into the art of distillation. At this immersive masterclass you’ll blend botanicals like citrus, florals, and spices to create your own bespoke bottle of gin. It’s educational, delightfully hands-on, and yes—completely Instagram-worthy. The on-site tasting sessions are reason enough to book your spot in advance.
Add a dash of nostalgia to your coastal holiday at Curry’s Fun Park, a staple of Salthill’s summer scene. This family-friendly fun park features classic rides like the waltzers, teacups, and the sky wheel—along with modern thrills for all ages. It’s open daily in spring and summer (weather permitting), and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. However, if the weather turns, their neighbour, Leisureland, is your go-to indoor oasis. This all-ages activity centre features an indoor pool with water slides, a sauna, and a fitness centre. On sunnier days, head outdoors for a round of mini-golf. Throughout the year, Leisureland also doubles as a venue for concerts, performances, and community events—so check their calendar before you arrive.
above: Blackrock Cottage is one of Galway's best restaurants, be sure to visit it!
Indulge in Salthill’s Food & Drink Scene
With sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean, a relaxed seaside vibe, and an ever-evolving dining scene, Salthill has become one of Galway’s top destinations for food lovers. From cosy cafés and family-friendly restaurants to elegant bars and international cuisine, Salthill offers something for every palate.
Located beside the iconic Blackrock Diving Tower, Blackrock Cottage is a local favourite. By day, it's a go-to spot for artisan coffee, brunch, and coastal views. By night, the menu transforms into something truly special—contemporary Irish cuisine rooted in local produce, paired with an impressive wine list and a beautifully curated cocktail menu.
Just a short stroll from all Salthill’s best family-friendly attractions, Ground & Co is perfect for families and beachgoers alike. The vibe is casual yet thoughtful, with a menu full of freshly made deli items, vibrant salads, vegan options, and their famous Leroy’s sausage rolls. All baked goods are made in-house each morning, making this a prime stop for breakfast or lunch with little ones in tow. Whether you’re after a scoop of the best vegan ice cream in Galway or a casual bite with the family, The Creamery hits all the right notes. This beachside café and bistro is known for its warm service, relaxed atmosphere, and family-friendly offerings—including a fantastic pizza menu. Ideal for a post-swim treat or a casual evening meal by the seaside.
Pier 56, the latest addition to the Galway Bay Hotel, offers relaxed, all-day dining with stunning sea views. Start your morning with freshly baked scones and speciality coffee, and return later for seasonal dishes created with locally sourced ingredients. With its casual ambience and prime location near the Salthill Promenade, it’s perfect for everything from a light lunch to a sunset supper.
For lovers of sushi and Asian cuisine, Osaka in Salthill is a standout. This laid-back gem serves beautifully crafted bento boxes, fragrant curries, and shareable plates—perfect after a day on the Prom. Pro tip: Enjoy a cold Tiger beer on their sunny terrace as you watch the day fade into evening. At LANA Salthill, the aromas of Thailand, Indonesia, and Malaysia mingle in the air, inviting diners on a flavourful adventure. The menu showcases a bold mix of spicy stir-fries, rich curries, and aromatic noodle dishes—all crafted with authenticity and flair.
above: Tapas at BlackCat are a must | photo by Ciarán MacChoncarraige
For a romantic night out, BlackCat is Salthill’s best-kept secret. This chic wine and tapas bar combines candlelit ambiance with the soft sounds of live jazz and a menu brimming with locally inspired small plates. The wine list is extensive, the mood is unmistakably elegant, and the hospitality is second to none.
With menus for every occasion, Gourmet Food Parlour Salthill is a go-to for beach-day brunches, celebratory dinners, and catch-ups with friends. Their weekend brunch is a particular highlight, and the drinks menu—filled with spritzes, bubbles, and cocktails—makes it ideal for evening socialising. The kids’ menu ensures everyone in the family is well-fed and happy too.
Elegant yet approachable, the Blackrock Bar at the Salthill Hotel offers a refined dining experience with panoramic views over Galway Bay. Whether you’re popping in for brunch, enjoying a leisurely lunch, or winding down with cocktails on the terrace, the service is exceptional, and the scenery unforgettable. It’s a go-to for relaxed sophistication by the sea.
For a taste of Brazil on the Irish coast, Chef Laura Rosso Restaurant is a true one-of-a-kind. Serving authentic Brazilian lunch dishes in a vibrant, welcoming setting, it’s a must-visit for those seeking something different. Also part of Chef Rosso’s culinary offerings, The Pear Tree Café opens early each morning to serve up house-baked pastries, artisan SOMA coffee, and hearty, sourdough-loaded toasties. Locally sourced ingredients—from Oughterard’s Sullivan’s bread to organic produce from Mill House Farm—ensure everything is fresh, flavourful, and made with love.
above: What's your drink of choice? | photo by Ciarán MacChoncarraige
There’s something truly special about sipping a pint with the Atlantic breeze at your back. In Salthill, Galway’s beloved seaside suburb, the pub scene is vibrant, authentic, and effortlessly charming. Whether you’re seeking an artisan gin, a creamy pint of Guinness, or a rooftop view with your cocktail, here’s where to drink in Salthill. An all-day favourite and the only bar in Salthill open from 10am until late, O’Reilly’s Bar & Kitchen is a must-visit for those seeking variety and atmosphere. With a cosy, fire-lit sidebar perfect for winter evenings and a rooftop terrace that delivers stunning views of Galway Bay year-round, it caters to every mood and moment.
For those in search of a classic Irish pub in Salthill, PJ Flaherty’s is the real deal. Known for its lush beer garden dressed with cherry blossom trees and a laid-back community vibe, it’s a favourite spot to catch the match, unwind post-swim, or just enjoy a pint in good company. Bonus points: it’s dog-friendly, so you can bring your furry friend along. Home to the Galway Bay Brewery and Micil Distillery, The Oslo Bar offers more than just a drink—it’s a true taste of Galway’s craft scene. From house-brewed beers to small-batch poitín and locally distilled gin, Oslo’s drink menu is proudly local and impressively diverse. Grab a burger from their kitchen (open daily from 12–10pm), sip your IPA, and head to the sprawling beer hall, especially lively during live sports events.
Step into O’Connor’s Bar and you’ll step into another world. Famed for its quirky interiors and floor-to-ceiling collection of Irish memorabilia, this legendary family-owned pub is as much a cultural experience as a night out. Known across Ireland (and even beyond, thanks to a famous Ed Sheeran music video cameo), O’Connor’s is the ultimate destination for live Irish music in Salthill. Nestled just on the fringe of Salthill, Wards is a quiet gem that locals love. With a snug bar and welcoming atmosphere, Wards is ideal for those seeking a more relaxed pub vibe. Their Guinness pour is locally revered, and Wednesday night traditional music sessions make this an underrated spot for authentic Irish culture. It’s also just a short walk from Galway city centre—making it a perfect in-between for those exploring the coast and the city.
above: Kali Coffee Bar, one of Galway's best coffee shops | photo by Ciarán MacChoncarraige
Where to get a Coffee in Salthill; Galway’s Seaside Café Scene
Whether you're strolling along the Prom or searching for a spot to unwind with a perfect flat white, Salthill is full of inviting cafés that promise more than just a caffeine hit. From expertly brewed speciality coffee to beachside brews with a view, here’s your ultimate guide to the best coffee spots in Salthill.
Charming, stylish, and oh-so-inviting, Ré Coffee + Design is more than just a café—it's a concept space where coffee, craft, and creativity collide. Sip on rich, aromatic speciality coffee from Bell Lane Roastery (Mullingar), and browse a curated selection of natural wines, quirky Irish-made gifts, and art prints. With delicious pastries and sandwiches from local favourite Hapi Bakery, this is a must-visit spot for coffee lovers and design enthusiasts alike. Ideal for a relaxed afternoon or a thoughtful gift-hunting session.
Kali Coffee Bar is one of Salthill’s most beloved stops for coffee, and for good reason. Co-owner Enda Johnstone represented Ireland in the World Brewers Cup, so rest assured, you’re in expert hands here. Despite the high-calibre coffee, Kali remains down-to-earth and inclusive—offering service through Irish Sign Language, a dog-friendly welcome, and a warm, modern interior that’s perfect for a relaxed sip or a remote work session.
A firm favourite with locals and early risers, Gourmet Tart Co is open daily from 7am, making it a prime stop for those doing the Prom pre-breakfast. Known for its generous offering of pastries, freshly baked tarts, and artisan breads, this café is both family-friendly and dog-friendly. Whether you’re grabbing a cappuccino on the go or sitting in for a warm croissant and flat white, it’s an ideal spot to start your day in Salthill.
Looking for coffee with a view? Head to Beachfront Barista, a charming coffee kiosk perfectly positioned along Salthill’s scenic promenade. Open seasonally, this outdoor gem offers top-tier takeaway coffees and treats—best enjoyed with sea spray in your hair and your dog by your side. Whether it’s a post-swim pick-me-up or a scenic coffee date, this al fresco spot ticks all the boxes.
above: The views from Galway Bay Hotel. Isn't it gorgeous!
Where to Stay in Salthill: Sleep in Style
Whether you’re craving ocean-view luxury, boutique charm, or spacious self-catering comfort, Salthill has the perfect stay to match your seaside escape. Located just minutes from Galway city yet worlds away from the everyday, this coastal neighbourhood is the ideal base for soaking up the magic of Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way. Here’s where to check in and chill out by the sea...
A true seaside retreat, the Salthill Hotel is one of the most iconic stays along the Wild Atlantic Way. With over 160 elegant rooms, including family-friendly layouts and sweeping sea-view suites, it’s an ideal choice for couples, families, and groups alike. Guests enjoy complimentary access to Ocean Fitness Health Club, home to a 25m pool, hydrotherapy pool, whirlpool, sauna, and steam room. When hunger strikes, their Prom Restaurant and Blackrock Bar deliver unforgettable dining with unbeatable views.
Set along Salthill’s Promenade with spectacular views of the bay, the 4-star Galway Bay Hotel blends comfort, charm, and elegance. From classic rooms and spacious family suites to its signature Galway Bay Suites, each stay feels like a homecoming. Indulge at their spa and leisure centre, or unwind over a long lunch or dinner at Pier 56, where fresh local produce and homemade desserts steal the spotlight.
above: A room with a view at Galway Bay Sea View Apartments
You’ll understand the name the moment you open the balcony doors… At Galway Bay Sea View Apartments, the panoramic vistas of Galway Bay and the Clare Hills stretch endlessly before you—offering a front-row seat to some of the most breathtaking sunsets in Ireland. These spacious, self-catering apartments are perfect for solo adventurers, couples, or groups of up to six. With home comforts and privacy wrapped in coastal beauty, this is your ultimate escape from the everyday.
A sleek addition to Salthill’s luxury scene, Shoreline Apartments combine contemporary design with five-star finishes. These stylish self-catering suites exude sophistication, from their minimalist interiors to thoughtful touches that elevate your stay. The penthouse units are particularly special, with floor-to-ceiling glass doors opening to private terraces—perfect for golden hour cocktails with a view.
Tucked inside a lovingly restored 200-year-old building, BlackCat is a boutique bolthole made for romantics, creatives, and food lovers. Its adults-only guest rooms may be compact, but they’re oozing with personality, charm, and vintage-inspired details. Downstairs, the award-winning tapas bar fills each evening with the sounds of soft jazz, clinking glasses, and happy conversation.
Whether you dream of morning walks along the Prom, romantic evenings with tapas and wine, or waking up to sea breezes and sunshine, the accommodation in Salthill offers a perfect blend of coastal serenity and Irish hospitality.
Main photo by Chaosheng Zhang, of Blackrock Diving Tower in Salthill.
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