Once an old smuggling site, Port Erin located on the south coast of the Isle of Man, was a tiny fishing village before tourism saw it rapidly develop into a favourite family holiday resort with its hotels banked on the slopes overlooking the almost circular bay which protects the sandy beach. Since Victorian times it has been a popular destination for visitors with its sheltered sandy beach, beautiful glens and coastal pathways, enclosed harbour, local cafe's and simple gardens, and today Port Erin still enjoys the tourist trade, as well as local trade. Its beaches and town centre still hold much of the appeal they ever did. The people welcome visitors from to spend time near the far end of the Isle of Man.

The Steam Railway's southern terminus which is magnificently preserved vintage rail system will transport you to and from Douglas, and within the surrounds of the station you can visit the excellent Railway Museum. Take a trip on a charter boats to the Calf of Man, a bird sanctuary and nature reserve lying of the southernmost tip of the Isle of Man, where Basking sharks, seals and a variety of whales and dolphins are regularly spotted in the area. The town offers a range of shops, pubs and places to eat, as well as being home to the Erin Arts Centre, where the world famous Mananan International Festival of Music and the Arts is held every summer.

Port Erin is a quiet seaside resort which can accommodate small craft and small inshore fishing vessels. Port Erin is also known for its diving facilities. The remains of a breakwater, built to provide a safe haven for the fishing boats, can still be seen. Built of concrete blocks it survived for ten years until it was destroyed in a particularly fierce storm in 1864. More enduring is the landmark of Milner's Tower on Bradda Head. It was built in 1871 by public subscription as a memorial to the benefactor of Port Erin who did much to help the village fishermen and the poor. William Milner was a famous safe maker from Liverpool and the unusual shape of the Tower represents a key.

Today, Port Erin is as popular as ever for those seeking a relaxed holiday. Liverpool University has its Marine Biological Station nearby.

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