Irish Around World fans and travel lovers have one more reason to look west: Achill Island in County Mayo has been ranked the 8th best island in the world for 2026 by Big 7 Travel. For anyone building an ireland travel bucket list, this is more than a flattering mention—it is a major international nod to one of the country’s most visually dramatic coastal escapes.
The new ranking places Achill Island alongside globally celebrated destinations such as Sri Lanka, Madeira, the Galapagos and Seychelles. The recognition shines a light on the wild Atlantic beauty that has long made Achill one of the true irish hidden gems, while also reinforcing its place among the standout places to visit in ireland.
Achill Island earns a place among the world’s best
Big 7 Travel’s annual list of the 50 best islands in the world is now in its seventh year and draws on a mix of previous media rankings, travel awards, audience input and editorial review. In the 2026 edition, Achill Island secured the number eight spot overall.
The travel site praised Achill for its striking natural palette, describing an island of pink sunrises, turquoise water, green hills and blazing sunsets. That picture will feel familiar to anyone who has explored the Wild Atlantic coast or searched for an ireland nightlife guide that also includes daytime adventure and scenery.
Among the biggest reasons for the high ranking were:
- Pristine beaches with international appeal
- Keem Bay’s reputation as one of the world’s best stretches of sand
- Crystal-clear Atlantic waters
- The chance to spot basking sharks off the coast
- A remote yet accessible sense of escape
Why Keem Bay continues to lead the conversation
Keem Bay is central to Achill’s global reputation. Its sweeping curve of sand, clear blue water and steep surrounding cliffs have made it one of the most photographed coastal locations in Ireland. For travelers planning irish road trips or looking for a memorable irish road trip itinerary, Keem Bay is often the image that convinces them to head west.
The bay also offers something rare in European travel: genuine drama without overdevelopment. Visitors can swim, walk the headland, take in panoramic views and, in season, keep an eye out for basking sharks—often called Ireland’s gentle giants.
Read more: best places to visit in ireland | wild atlantic way tips
What this means for tourism, craic and modern Irish culture
For the Craic category, Achill’s recognition matters because the island captures more than scenery. It reflects irish culture and craic in a way that is both relaxed and rooted—traditional irish music sessions in nearby villages, strong local storytelling, coastal food, and the kind of easy conversation that makes visitors ask, what is the craic, within hours of arriving.
It also adds momentum to growing global interest in modern irish culture, especially among the global irish community and visitors tracing family ties through irish diaspora history or a broader irish genealogy search. Scenic places with authentic atmosphere increasingly outperform generic resort travel, and Achill fits that shift perfectly.
If you are planning things to do in ireland tonight after a day on the coast, Achill and the wider Mayo region offer pub sessions, local seafood, and a slower pace that contrasts nicely with busier urban breaks. It is a reminder that the best craic in ireland is not always found in the biggest cities.
Explore more: irish hidden gems | irish road trips
Top 10 islands named in the 2026 ranking
According to Big 7 Travel, the top 10 best islands in the world for 2026 are:
- Sri Lanka
- Mo’orea, French Polynesia
- Socotra, Yemen
- Madeira
- The Galapagos, Ecuador
- Great Exuma, Bahamas
- Seychelles
- Achill Island, Ireland
- Koh Lipe, Thailand
- Milos, Greece
Quick FAQ for travelers
Where is Achill Island?
Achill Island is off the coast of County Mayo in the west of Ireland and is connected to the mainland by bridge.
Why was Achill Island ranked so highly?
It was recognized for its beaches, especially Keem Bay, its clear waters, dramatic coastal scenery and unique wildlife appeal.
Is Achill Island worth adding to an Ireland itinerary?
Yes. It is one of the standout places to visit in ireland for beach scenery, outdoor activities and a strong sense of local character.
Can you see wildlife there?
Yes. The waters around Achill are known for basking sharks during the right season, alongside rich marine and coastal life.
Final takeaway
Achill Island’s new global ranking confirms what many travelers and Irish Around World readers already suspected: this Mayo destination is no longer just a local favorite, but a world-class island escape. For anyone searching for places to visit in ireland that combine natural beauty, authenticity and unforgettable coastal atmosphere, Achill deserves a top spot on the list.
