Ring of Kerry in October

May through September offers the best weather and longest days – crucial when you're chasing that perfect sunset at Inch Beach. July and August bring crowds but also the warmest temperatures (a relative term in Ireland). My sweet spot? Late May or early September. The weather's decent, the crowds thin out, and accommodation prices drop. Avoid winter unless you love dramatic storms and shortened days – many coastal attractions close November through March. Spring can be gorgeous but unpredictable. The rhododendrons bloom in May around Killarney, creating purple tunnels along Muckross Road. If you're here for photography, the golden hour lasts forever during summer solstice – sunset isn't until nearly 10pm.