Short answer: the full Cliffs of Moher trail, the coastal walk, is not open. The 6 km stretch between Liscannor and the Cliffs of Moher Experience is fully closed, and walkers from Doolin can only go as far as Surfers Path. The visitor centre, O’Brien’s Tower and the designated paths around them remain open. Status per the Cliffs of Moher Experience notice dated 1 August 2026, checked on 19 September 2026. The official page gives no reopening date.
What Is Open and What Is Closed at the Cliffs of Moher
| Section | Status | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Liscannor to the Cliffs of Moher Experience (6 km, Hag’s Head side) | Closed | Officially “fully closed due to severe safety concerns”; no access from Liscannor or from the visitor centre |
| Doolin to Surfers Path | Open (partial) | Turn back to Doolin at Surfers Path; there is no access to the Cliffs of Moher Experience from Doolin |
| Visitor centre, O’Brien’s Tower and designated paths | Open | About 3.5 km of designated paths, including roughly 1 km north of O’Brien’s Tower and a 1.5 km round trip south to the Southern Viewing Platform |
The Cliffs of Moher Experience asks visitors to stay on designated paths at all times and not to go beyond walls or barriers.
Can You Still Walk From Doolin to the Cliffs of Moher?
Not all the way. The Doolin section is open only as far as Surfers Path, which Head West Ireland places about 500 metres before the visitor centre, and there is no access onward. Treat it as an out-and-back walk from Doolin rather than a one-way route to the visitor centre. For background on the route, see our Doolin Cliff Walk guide, and check its route details against the current status above.
Why Is the Trail Closed?
The Cliffs of Moher Experience cites “severe safety concerns” on the southern section. Head West Ireland (in an article dated September 2025) describes the works as part of a long-term commitment to enhance safety and accessibility for all visitors. No reopening date has been published, so plan on the closure being open-ended and check the official page or the Cliffs of Moher mobile app before you travel.
Alternatives to the Coastal Walk
- Walk the designated paths from the visitor centre: north past O’Brien’s Tower, or south to the Southern Viewing Platform.
- Take a boat cruise from Doolin Pier to see the cliffs from the water; Head West Ireland lists the Doolin Ferry Co. Cliffs of Moher Cruise.
- Join a guided walk from Doolin with a pickup service, so you avoid the walk back. Head West Ireland lists Doolin Cliff Walks and Ollies Tours.
- Read our Cliffs of Moher visitor guide for planning the rest of your visit, or our County Clare guide for more to do nearby.
Cliffs of Moher Trail FAQ
Is the Cliffs of Moher trail open? Only in part. See the table above.
Are the Cliffs of Moher open? The official page lists the visitor centre area and its designated paths as open. The closures affect the coastal walk. Conditions can change, so check the official website or app on the day, and see our guide to the Cliffs of Moher in a storm.
When will the coastal walk reopen? No date has been announced.
Can I walk from Liscannor or Hag’s Head? No. The 6 km Liscannor section is fully closed.
Sources: Cliffs of Moher Experience coastal walk page; Head West Ireland. Status last checked 19 September 2026.
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