Niarbyl Bay

Niarbyl Bay 3 TownTactics (Atlas Obscura User)

Niarbyl Bay’s picturesque serene coastal surroundings is the top destination for off-the-beaten track locations for any visitor to the Isle of Man. From the various lookouts along Niarbyl Bay, you will be able to see spectacular views of the rugged western coastline of the Isle of Man, as well as the southwestern island called the “Calf of Man” and the Irish Sea.

Located at Niarbyl Bay is the Niarbyl Café known for its fresh fish dishes, tea, and scones. Just downhill from the café is a number of attractions including the Niarbyl to Peel Raad Ny Foillan coastal walk and the Niarbyl Fault, a geological faultline marking what remains of the Lapetus Ocean which existed more than 400 million years ago in the Neoproterozoic and Paleozoic era. Additionally, there is the extremely charming Fishermen’s Thatched Cottages. One of the cottages was used as Ned Devine’s Cottage in the 1998 film Waking Ned starring actors Ian Bannen, James Nesbitt, David Kelly, and Fionnula Flanagan and directed by Kirk Jones.

Niarbyl Bay is one of 26 discovery sites on the Isle of Man, allowing budding and enthusiastic stargazers to enjoy the stars of the night sky. Also well known as a great spot for anglers fishing from the rocky coastline for fish such as pollock, mackerel, conger eel, and ballan wrasse, Niarbyl Bay is the perfect dreamy destination.

Know Before You Go

The best way to get to Niarbyl Bay is to take the A1 road from Douglas to Peel and then head down the coast towards Glenmaye before turning onto the Dalby Road and heading to the hamlet of Dalby. Once you reach Dalby turn right onto the Niarbyl Road, once you reach the end of the road there is parking available at Niarbyl Café.