Things to Do in Wexford with Teenagers
While Staying at Riverside Park Hotel
Family holidays with teenagers can be a tricky balance — you want to relax, and they want excitement, independence, and Instagram-worthy adventures. Luckily, County Wexford is a hidden gem bursting with fun activities that strike the perfect balance for all ages. At the Riverside Park Hotel, we’re proud to be your home base as you create lifelong memories with your teen. Whether they’re adrenaline junkies, nature lovers, history buffs, or simply love the outdoors, here are the best things to do in Wexford with teenagers this summer.
Ride the Waves at Curracloe Beach
A short drive from the Riverside Park Hotel, Curracloe Beach is one of Ireland’s most beautiful stretches of sand — and a hotspot for surfing. Whether your teen is a first-timer or already chasing the perfect wave, the local surf schools offer fun, safe lessons for all levels. You can also enjoy sand surfing and paddle boards if surfing isn’t your style.
Kayaking Adventures on the River Slaney
For an exciting day on the water, look no further than Go Paddle, offering guided kayaking trips right on the River Slaney. Paddle through serene nature, spot wildlife, and explore the riverbanks from a completely new perspective. It’s ideal for teenagers who want an active adventure — and yes, it’s totally TikTok-worthy.
Dive into Irish History
If your teen enjoys stories from the past, Wexford has two must-see historical attractions. The Irish National Heritage Park is an open-air museum that brings 9,000 years of Irish history to life — think ancient dwellings, Viking boats, and medieval craftsmanship.
For something a little more immersive, board the Dunbrody Famine Ship Experience in New Ross. This full-scale replica of a 19th-century emigrant ship offers a dramatic insight into the lives of Irish people during the Famine. It’s an eye-opening experience that blends history with emotion and storytelling.
Coastal Thrills with Irish Experience Tours
Ready for a serious adrenaline rush? Take your teen on a coasteering or sea kayaking tour with The Irish Experience, based in south Wexford. Coasteering involves scrambling across rocks, jumping into the sea, and exploring sea caves — all under expert supervision. It’s an unforgettable way to engage with Ireland’s wild coastline and a surefire way to impress even the most hard-to-please teenagers.
Go Fishing at Loch Gorman Park
Looking for a more relaxed outdoor activity? Try a day of fishing at Loch Gorman Park. It’s peaceful, scenic, and perfect for first-timers and experienced anglers alike. Surrounded by nature, it’s a great way to unplug and enjoy quality time together — and maybe even catch your dinner!
Reach New Heights at the IOAC
The International Outdoor Adventure Centre (IOAC) in Rosslare is an adventure playground made for teens. From aerial trekking to high ropes courses, ziplining, archery, and even combat laser tag, there’s no shortage of challenges to conquer. It’s team-building disguised as fun — and guaranteed to burn off that endless teenage energy.
Countryside Horse Riding Adventures near Enniscorthy
Just a 20-minute drive from the Riverside Park Hotel, explore magical horse riding with local favourites like Anvil Lodge Riding School in Ballindaggin.
Looking for shoreline rides? Head north towards Shrule Equestrian Centre between Ballygarrett and Kilmuckridge. They offer beach rides on Cahore’s south beach, with gentle waves and golden sands that are ideal for teens wanting something memorable and a bit adventurous
Crazy (Adventure) Golf at Pirates Cove, Courtown Harbour
Nestled close to Courtown Beach and harbour, the 18-hole adventure golf (crazy golf) course features striking elements like tropical gardens, caves, a cascading waterfall, and a life-sized shipwreck galleon—perfect for quirky photo ops and circuit-style play Evening rounds under low-level lighting add a touch of magic—and it’s very Instagrammable .
Plus, at Pirates Cove you can pair your golf with other attractions: bumper boats, bubble rollers, themed karting, arcade games, a kids’ train ride, and even bowling—
A Rainy Day Rescue: Leisure Max Wexford for Teens
If the weather takes a turn or your teen needs a break from outdoor adventures, Leisure Max is Wexford’s largest indoor and outdoor family entertainment centre. It offers over 20 adrenaline‑packed activities tailored to teens: from ten-pin bowling, laser tag, squishy sumo wrestling, and gladiator combat indoors, to the exhilarating outdoor adventure tower featuring zip-line, abseiling, climbing wall, and the dramatic Leap of Faith challenge Add in quirky favourites like soccer zorbing, footy pool, hover‑safe archery, and themed escape rooms.
Your Family-Friendly Base in the Heart of Wexford
At the Riverside Park Hotel, we know how important it is to keep teenagers engaged and entertained while still allowing parents to relax. Our family rooms, leisure club, indoor pool, and proximity to Wexford’s top attractions make us the perfect starting point for your summer adventures.
Whether you’re coasteering, kayaking, surfing, or exploring Irish heritage sites, Wexford offers the perfect mix of thrill and culture for families with teenagers. So pack your bags, grab your GoPro, and get ready to make memories that will last a lifetime.
