Surfing In Ireland - Find Your Perfect Wave

Over recent years Ireland has seen a major growth in the sport of surfing. Be it Surfing, Bodyboarding wind or kite surfing, this phenomenon is without doubt one of the countries fastest growing hobbies. Surf schools have popped up right round the coast of Ireland and for good reason.

Kept under the radar for many years,Ireland is home to some of the best surf spots in the world and although our Atlantic swells aren't the most consistent, on a good day, they can easily compete with the likes of Hawaii and California. We have listed the best spots to find that perfect wave for you.

With South Donegal being the Surf Capital of Ireland, whether it is a beach, reef or break point, there are several locations along this rugged coastline that cater for all levels of ability. Rossnowlagh Beach is a perfect beach break for beginners while the more experienced can brave the waves at Tullan Beach and The Peak, Bundoran. Bundoran is highly regarded throughout the world and has hosted many major competitions to date. It also has a very exciting and tasteful nightlife to go with it with excellent restaurants and pubs throughout. Your guaranteed an eventful night after a day in the water. Turfnsurf Lodge and Surf School is an excellent school that caters for all swell seekers with excellent prices on lessons. There are numerous Bed and Breakfast’s available in South Donegal and nothing can prepare you more for the elements than a traditional Irish Breakfast by one of the many B&B hosts.

Donegal is not the only area that is blessed with the Atlantic swell however. Co. Sligo is home to various breaks that are both diverse and challenging. The village of Easkey and Strandhill beach are one of the most popular surfing locations in Ireland and has world class tubes to go with it. Big wave surfing is relatively new to the coastline of Ireland and Mullaghmore, Co. Sligo is a prime location to see such a spectacle. Although the window of opportunity for such monstrous waves is small, this is something that should not be missed. Again there is an excellent selection of B&Bs in Sligo that will meet all your needs.

Co. Clare is also renowned for its top class surf schools and a warm embrace from locals is always a guarantee. Again there are many locations dispersed throughout the county with Lahinch being the busiest location. This beautiful beach is perfect for beginners and gets very busy during the summer months. Similar to Bundoran, the town of Lahinch has adopted a very Surf town appeal and you’ll never find yourself short of an entertaining night. There are several more spots such as Spanish Point, Doolin and Doonbeg where the swell and scenery is equally impressive. Lessons can be taken at Lahinch Surf School, an excellent environment for beginner’s right through to the more experienced and there is a great selection of Bed and Breakfasts in the Banner County that will cater for your surfing holiday.

The Atlantic swells grow in size during the autumn and winter months. This phenomenon is not to be missed as waves reach 20-25ft in places. Big wave surfing is no doubt for the more daring individual however witnessing the likes of Fergal Smith tearing up the monstrous Aileen’s Wave at the foot of the Cliffs of Moher or Richie Fitzgerald braving the swell off Mullaghmore Co, Sligo is enough to get your heart racing.

No doubt about it, the surfing attraction in Ireland is growing tremendously and if 11 time world Champion Kelly Slater agrees, it must be gospel!