Overview
The family-owned Smugglers Inn is a 200-year-old restored farmhouse in Waterville on the coast of Kerry, run by the Hunt family across five generations since approximately 1779. It sits one mile from the village of Waterville on the famous Ring of Kerry, overlooking the Atlantic Ocean and Waterville Golf Links.
Make a reservation here.
What You'll See
The inn has 13 rooms offering an intimate, cosy setting with stunning 360 degree views of the rugged Kerry landscape. Most rooms have sea or mountain views, with private bathrooms, TVs, hairdryers, and tea and coffee facilities.
The on-site gourmet restaurant, run by Chef and Proprietor Henry Hunt, seats up to 100 and is renowned for fresh fish and local meat dishes - specialities include Ballinskelligs Bay Black Sole, Inny Beach Seafood Platter, Kataifi Prawns, and Rack of Kerry Lamb.
The Payne Stewart Bar offers a more casual setting with a traditional Irish pub atmosphere and a separate bar food menu. There is also a unique dome dining experience for guests seeking something more private.
Visitor Essentials
The inn is fully licensed and operates as a B&B with a bar, bar food, and gourmet restaurant. Free Wi-Fi and free parking are included. Drying facilities are available for golfing and fishing guests, and Lough Currane nearby offers excellent salmon and trout fishing. Booking the restaurant in advance is essential, particularly in summer and around major golf events at Waterville Links. The inn is open seasonally - confirm dates directly before booking outside peak months.
Tips
The Smugglers Inn is adjacent to the world-famous Waterville Golf Links and just a 20-minute walk to the village of Waterville, making it a strong base for golfers and a manageable evening stroll for those who prefer to walk to dinner in the village.
The inn's location on the Skellig Coast section of the Ring of Kerry makes it a natural overnight stop for those visiting Skellig Michael, with Portmagee and the Skellig boat departures roughly 30 minutes away. For the best views, request a room with a balcony or large window facing the beach.
