The largest of the islands in Bantry Bay, Whiddy is a short ferry crossing from the pier in town. It is mostly farmland and quiet lanes, with a population in the low double digits and one pub. The northern end holds the remains of a Napoleonic-era star fort, built to defend the bay against a repeat of the 1796 French attempt; the southern end is taken up by a major oil terminal, today partly screened by trees.
Most visitors come for a half-day walk — the loop around the island is about ten kilometres on quiet road — followed by lunch and a pint at the Bank House pub. Ferries run several times a day in summer, less often in winter.