The Loop Head Peninsula and the Shannon Estuary are at their best from May through September, when the weather is mild enough to walk the cliffs and the ferry to Scattery Island runs reliably. July and August are the busiest months — busy by west Clare standards, which means the pubs fill up and accommodation books out, but crowds remain minimal compared with more visited parts of the Wild Atlantic Way.
The dolphin-watching trips run year-round, but sightings are most reliable from April to October when the dolphins are most active. September and October can offer the best combination of decent weather and empty roads. Winter visits are possible for the hardened — the Atlantic light on the cliffs in a storm is something to see — but expect the ferry and many local services to be suspended.