Ballinskelligs or "Baile na Sceilge" is one of the few remaining Irish-speaking areas in Kerry. It has a history steeped in the Irish language and the village can trace its origins right back to monks in the 5th or 6th century who made their home on the nearby inhospitable Skelligs rock. It is from the Skelligs that the village gets its name. "Baile" is the Irish for town and hence "Baile na Skelligs" is the town of the Skelligs. The Village has changed a lot since the sixth century and in particular during the first decade of the 21st century. You can still however find the old character and charm of this area by exploring a little of the surrounding countryside.

To the southwest of the village is Bolus Head, which overlooks St. Finan's Bay and the Skellig Rocks. This area has a profusion of pre-historic and early Christian ruins. The ruins of Cill Rialiag, an early Christian monastic settlement are located beside the road to Bolus Head. The remains include an Oratory, two inscribed stones, and traces of Beehive huts.

The bowl of shamrock presented to President Barak Obama on Saint Patrick's Day 2013 came from Ballinskelligs!

The region also plays host to an Irish college during the Summer months where students come to learn the Irish Language.