For all ages • 1 Hour 20 Mins • Guided Tour And Tasting
Explore Galway Bay’s historic oyster beds with the Kelly family and learn to shuck fresh oysters before savoring them paired with local craft beer on a 200-year-old pier.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Hang tight — photos are loading
This usually takes just a second.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
1 hour 20 minutes
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels as the experience is shore-based with minimal walking.
Wildlife
History
Oyster farming in Galway Bay dates back over 200 years, integral to the region’s coastal economy.
Conservation
The oyster beds are carefully managed to preserve water quality and support native marine life, reflecting local sustainability efforts.
Kelly Oysters
For all ages • 1 Hour 20 Mins • Guided Tour And Tasting
Kelly Oysters is a family-run oyster experience based in Kilcolgan, County Galway, offering guided tastings and educational visits to Galway Bay’s historic oyster beds. Guided by a Kelly family member, visitors walk the shoreline and learn the cultural and ecological importance of oysters in the region. The experiences include hands-on shucking instruction and tasting freshly harvested oysters on a 200-year-old pier, paired with local craft beer. Kelly Oysters offers both group and private formats: the Kelly Oyster Tasting Experience - Group and the Kelly Oyster Tasting Experience - Private, each designed to showcase local shellfish knowledge and coastal tradition.
The activities take place on and around Galway Bay, providing direct access to the oyster beds and a close-up view of harvesting practices. Sessions emphasize safe handling, proper shucking technique, and tasting notes, all led by a family member familiar with local waters. The setting—a restored pier overlooking the Atlantic—creates a memorable context for learning and tasting. Kelly Oysters focuses on authentic, place-based culinary tourism that connects guests to County Galway’s maritime heritage. Visitors should expect outdoor conditions typical of the Wild Atlantic; appropriate footwear and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended. Bookings can be arranged for small private groups or public group sessions, making the experience suitable for couples, food groups, and visitors seeking an authentic coastal culinary activity in west Ireland. All oysters served are freshly harvested from Galway Bay during the visit, and guests receive practical shucking tips, tasting guidance, and local context about harvest timing, seasonality, and shore conditions.
Location
Kilcolgan
Kilcolgan, County Galway
Tours Offered
Group & Private
Group and private oyster tastings
Historic Pier
200 years
Tastings on a 200-year-old pier
Local Pairing
Craft beer
Oysters paired with local craft beer
Reserve a group or private tasting in Kilcolgan, County Galway for guided shucking, fresh oysters, and local craft beer pairings.
Handle Oysters Carefully
Use proper technique when shucking to avoid injury and preserve oyster quality.
Check Weather Conditions
Galway Bay can be windy; dress accordingly to stay comfortable on the pier.
Arrive Early
Arrive at least 10 minutes before your tour to ensure a smooth start and have time to explore the pier surroundings.
Respect Local Guidelines
Follow all conservation rules and instructions from guides to help protect oyster beds.
Windproof Jacket
Protect yourself from chilly Atlantic breezes common in spring.
spring
Waterproof Footwear
Pier surfaces can be wet; footwear with good grip ensures safety.
summer
Layered Clothing
Variable fall weather calls for adjustable layers for comfort.
fall
Warm Hat and Gloves
Stay warm during colder months when winds off the bay are strongest.
winter