Located just minutes from Sextons Camping and Caravan Park, the West Cork Model Railway Village offers a charming and interactive glimpse into 1940s life in West Cork. Kids and adults alike will love exploring the beautifully handcrafted miniature towns, complete with moving model trains and tiny figures. Families can also enjoy remote-control boats, mini diggers, an indoor soft play area, and an outdoor playground.
The popular “Choo Choo” Road Train tour around Clonakilty adds to the fun, while the on-site café and picnic area provide space to relax. Fully accessible and designed with young families in mind, it’s a must-visit for a relaxing and educational day out.
Tucked away along West Cork’s scenic Seven Heads Peninsula, Dunworley is a peaceful, unspoiled spot perfect for nature-loving families and walkers. Its sheltered beach is ideal for paddling, rock-pooling, and seaside strolls, while the surrounding cliffs and headlands offer panoramic views and wildlife-spotting opportunities—including seals, dolphins, and seabirds.
Rich in history, Dunworley also features ancient ruins, legends of shipwrecks, and hidden springs, all adding a sense of quiet mystery to the landscape. With its calm atmosphere and natural beauty, it’s a hidden gem for those looking to unwind and reconnect with the wild Atlantic coast.
Just outside Clonakilty, Inchydoney Beach is one of Ireland’s most scenic and family-friendly coastal spots. Known for its soft golden sands, rolling Atlantic waves, and safe, shallow waters, it’s ideal for paddling, sandcastle-building, and surfing. With lifeguards in summer, easy access, and stunning views, it’s perfect for a relaxing beach day. The nearby Inchydoney Surf School and scenic walking trails add to its appeal, while the Inchydoney Island Lodge & Spa offers a great café stop or sea-view lunch. A must-visit on any West Cork itinerary.
Just a short ferry ride from Schull or Baltimore, Cape Clear Island is a charming Irish-speaking (Gaeltacht) community offering families safe sandy beaches, gentle walking trails, and abundant wildlife including seals and seabirds. Kids will love exploring rock pools, discovering local history at the heritage centre, and enjoying traditional music with the friendly island community. With plenty of outdoor activities and a welcoming atmosphere, Cape Clear is an ideal spot for a memorable family getaway in West Cork.
Located in the heart of Cork City, just 45 minutes from Sextons Camping & Caravan Park, The English Market is a vibrant indoor food market packed with local flavour and charm. Operating since 1788, it’s one of Europe’s oldest markets and offers a wide variety of fresh produce, artisan foods, and traditional Irish treats. Families will enjoy browsing the colourful stalls, sampling local snacks, and soaking up the lively atmosphere. Don’t miss the upstairs Farmgate Café for a tasty lunch with a view over the bustling market below.
Just a short 15-minute drive from Sextons Camping & Caravan Park, Courtmacsherry is a delightful seaside village that offers a perfect mix of relaxation and adventure for families. Enjoy scenic coastal walks and explore several family-friendly beaches, including Courtmacsherry Strand, Broadstrand, Blindstrand, and Coolmain Strand—all ideal for swimming, paddling, beachcombing, or simply relaxing by the sea.
Located beside the Clonakilty Park Hotel, just minutes from the town centre, the Clonakilty Park Adventure Centre offers an exciting mix of outdoor thrills and family-friendly fun. Kids (and grown-ups!) can enjoy aerial trekking, a 100-metre zip line, climbing walls, and even a free-fall jump. For something more relaxed, the ocean-themed Adventure Golf is perfect for all ages. With trained staff, excellent safety measures, and flexible booking options, it’s a great way to spend an action-packed few hours in West Cork.
Just a short drive from Sextons Camping & Caravan Park, Drombeg Stone Circle is one of Ireland’s best-preserved prehistoric sites, dating back over 3,000 years. Known as “The Druid’s Altar,” this mystical circle of stones is aligned with the winter solstice sunset and includes ancient cooking sites and stone huts.
Nearby, the picturesque village of Glandore offers stunning harbour views, peaceful walks, and a welcoming spot to relax with a coffee or lunch. With its blend of history, natural beauty, and family-friendly atmosphere, this day trip is ideal for curious minds and scenic explorers alike.
Timoleague is a peaceful coastal village in West Cork known for its rich history and scenic beauty. The standout attraction is the atmospheric Timoleague Abbey, a 13th-century ruin overlooking the estuary. Visitors can enjoy easy walking trails along the old railway line to Courtmacsherry, explore historic churches with stunning mosaics and stained glass, and sample local food, including the famous Timoleague Brown Pudding. In August, the Timoleague Harvest Festival brings the village to life with music, events, and family fun. With its tranquil setting and warm community, Timoleague is a lovely stop for a relaxed and culturally rich day out.
Just 1 hour and 10 minutes’ drive from Sextons Camping & Caravan Park, Fota Island is a unique day trip destination offering something for everyone. Visit the world-renowned Fota Wildlife Park, where animals like giraffes, lemurs, and wallabies roam freely in naturalistic habitats. Explore the elegant Fota House and Gardens, a beautifully preserved 19th-century estate with exotic plants and guided tours. For more adventure, try Fota Island Adventure Centre with outdoor activities like kayaking, or unwind at the luxurious Fota Island Spa and Golf Resort. With its mix of nature, history, and leisure, Fota Island is a fantastic full-day outing for families, couples, and all ages.