I need a third destination in Ireland.

How about Kilkenny and the Rock of Cashel?

Thanks Mary Pat. I'll check out Kilkenny. At this point I'm considering Doolin on the West Coast. It looks like there's enough to do there without a car.

If food is your interest then I would suggest Kinsale as it's known as the gourmet capital of Ireland. Train to Cork and a 1 hour bus ride to Kinsale. Kilkenny is also a nice town and easy access by train. I enjoyed visiting the Rock of Cashel, but it was a bit of a marathon to get there by public transport.

Northern Ireland has some great public transport options.

Lahinch, the Cliffs of Mohrer and Skellig Michael.

I guess I better check out Kinsale. I'm really leaning towards Doolin at this point. I want to see the Rock of Cashel but I think we can do that from where we're staying later in our trip. Keep the tips coming!

This might not work well given the fact you're already taking a Ring of Kerry tour, and isn't geographically between Dublin and Adare, but Killarney is not a bad option at that time of year to consider. It is not Rick Steeves approved, but the town is a transport hub, has easy access to natural wonders nearby (Killarney National Park), and we found to be a charming small town with some traveler-friendly benefits (e.g., food, hotel options, etc.). The usual knock is that town is very touristy as a jumping off point for ROK tours, but we found it was just perfect in March and could be as well in May before the bulk of the tour bus crowds hit. With everything that's right at its doorstep from a natural standpoint, the town's well-linked transportation options, and options for in-town nightlife/dining/hotels, I think it it is worth considering.

I agree that Killarney would be easy to get to on public transportation. It's a little touristy but there would probably be music in the pubs. Plus, Ross Castle and Muckross House are both quite nice places to visit and easy access. If you are longing for a small town, Dingle is handy and a lovely walk-able harbor town with lots of small shops and music in pubs at night. Doolin is an even smaller town but they have some great music pubs and you may even take the ferry out to one of the Aran Islands for a day-tripper---I would suggest Inish Mor just to see Dun Aenghus. Stay with Sean O'Connor at Doll's Cottage if you go to Doolin!
Truly, you cannot go wrong!

Hi Gwen, I was in Ireland last June. I was in Ennis and Galway. Both charming towns. As is Westport. Don’t know about public transportation to these places however from where you will be. I am going again in August. Flying into Shannon. Then I want to take the coastal road to Galway. I am still looking for a tour or perhaps a private car. To sight see and maybe to Dingle Pininsula. Good luck and enjoy! I just loved Ireland

Thanks for all the suggestions.

For food, Kinsale is tops. My wife and I spent 3 nights there at a B&B. So many dining options with great food!

I would love to explore the Wicklow Mountains National Park for a few days - about 60 miles south of Dublin. A truly beautiful area. The only reason we didn't visit is because we didn't plan enough time after our RS Tour. It's on my list for next time!

Garrison