From the pier at Doolin in County Clare, Inis Oírr (Inisheer) is generally considered the best and most convenient Aran Island to visit. It is the closest of the three islands to the mainland, with the ferry crossing taking only about 15 to 25 minutes, making it ideal for a day trip. Despite being the smallest of the islands, it is packed with character and iconic sights. Visitors can easily explore the island by renting a bicycle or taking a traditional horse-and-trap tour. Key highlights include the haunting Plassey Shipwreck, which sits high on the rocky shore, the ruins of O'Brien's Castle overlooking the village, and the sunken church of Saint Kevin. The island also offers a beautiful white sand beach and clear turquoise waters that are rare for the west of Ireland. Because of its compact size, you can see almost everything the island has to offer and still have time for a pint and some traditional music at a local pub before the afternoon ferry returns. While Inis Mór is larger and home to Dún Aonghasa, the proximity and charm of Inis Oírr make it the top choice for those departing from the Doolin area.