We will be flying into Shannon in early June. Our original plan was to then drive up to Galway, spend the night then head south again to see Burren, Cliffs of Moher, Loop Head, etc. then spend the night in Dingle. I am now questioning whether we should drive all the way to Galway just to come back the next day. Would we be better off just spending the first night in Shannon and taking off from there?

Ennis is a good base just 1/2 hour north from Shannon and a great base to see all County Clare including the usual Tourist spots of the Cliffs and Moonscape bit of the Burren.

http://www.visitennis.com/

So you do not think it is necessary to go all the way into Galway just to turn around the next day and head back south? You are recommending Ennis rather than just staying in Shannon?

We spent first night in Ennis at Old Ground Hotel after landing at Shannon. Visited Cliffs of Moher from Ennis.It is very close to Shannon.

Shannon was built to serve the airport and industry There is the Park Hotel on the Airport complex, The Oakwood Arms Hotel in town Warehouses and a Shopping centre. Yes Ennis gets my vote over Shannon (or Dingle) any day of the week.

I would stay in Doolin or Lahinch only because I love the sea, both a good first night stay.

OK! Then I am going to scrap Galway altogether and choose a spot closer to Shannon. Thank you all for confirming for me!