The Calf of Man is a beautiful island, situated half a mile off the south-west coast of the Isle of Man. As a Nature Reserve and Bird Observatory, the Calf is the ideal location to study bird life, flora and fauna.
The Calf of Man is a beautiful island, situated half a mile off the south-west coast of the Isle of Man. As a Nature Reserve and Bird Observatory, the Calf is the ideal location to study bird life, flora and fauna.
Available to visit during the summer. Day trips and overnight accommodation available.
The Calf of Man is accessed by small boat operators running return trips from Port St Mary and Port Erin. Sailings are subject to suitable weather conditions, tide and the availability of the boatmen and all journeys must be booked in advance.
Overnight stays are available in Manx National Heritage’s hostel accommodation at the Calf of Man Bird Observatory during summer months. All bookings for overnight stays at the Calf of Man Observatory are handled by Island Escapes. Find out more on our Stay With Us page.
Donations welcome
Located amidst spectacular scenery half a mile off the southern tip of the Isle of Man, the Calf of Man is a small island extending to approximately 600 acres. Under the care of Manx National Heritage the Calf provides the ideal destination for birdwatchers, being home to a number of species including seabird colonies and thousands of migrating birds. Around 33 species of seabirds breed on the island, including Manx Shearwater, Kittiwake, Razorbill and Shag. Other species normally observed on the island include Peregrine, Hen Harrier and Chough.
