I would appreciate any advice since I am a first time visitor to Ireland. I am arriving Shannon on Friday 9-22 before noon and must be in Dingle by 6:00 pm the next day. I would love to hike some of the trip and ride most of it. Any suggestions on a hiking starting and ending point and how/where to catch a bus for the remainder? Or am I better off to ride a bus to the Cliffs of Moher then bus ride to Dingle the next day? Also, what are my chances of getting BB without reservations this time of the year there?
Since you are leaving very soon you need to do some quick work to figure out the logistics of your trip. Click on IrelandYes Index and then on the link for Transport. There you will find info on the train and bus systems in Ireland. You can look at schedules, passes, etc.
On your arrival day you may not want to do a lot of hiking so taking a bus to the Cliffs of Moher is a good idea. You are arriving on a weekend and going to a couple of popular areas. It might be a good idea to at least book your first night. You can always find something if you are not particular.
There are plenty of hikes on the Dingle Peninsula including the Dingle Way: http://www.dingleway.net/ The tourist office will be able to give you some suggestions as will the locals. Many people enjoy going to the top of Mount Brandon.