Ireland, occupying the majority of the island of the same name, is exposed to the powerful waves of the Atlantic driven by the mighty Gulf Stream. The distinctive rugged nature, world-class surf spots, established infrastructure, and good transport accessibility have made surfing in Ireland popular among both locals and traveling athletes.
Irish Beach
The island, measuring 450x300 km, has an extensive coastline. The south and especially the west coasts, dotted with numerous bays, fjords, and river mouths, are of interest to surfers.
Here, I’ll detail some places for surfing and relaxation in Ireland:
- County Donegal and the surfing capital – Bundoran
- Spots in County Sligo
- Strandhill
- County Waterford
- Achill Island
- Inch Beach – County Clare
- Ballybunion – County Kerry
Endless wide beaches alternate with formidable cliffs, hills covered in heather, and lush soft grass. Hidden in the water are rocks and flat, bizarre reefs that give rise to fascinating waves.
Climate
The Gulf Stream, sweeping along the west coast, brings warmth and moisture, making the weather unpredictable.
- During the day, you can experience the changing of all four seasons.
- The weather here can somewhat be considered autumnal year-round. Summers are cool, and winters are free of frost.
- Surfing conditions in January are harsh: average temperatures of +5°C, stormy winds from the North Atlantic, dreary weather, and water temperatures around +7°C.
- July to August is the most favorable time for surfing, with an average temperature of +17°C but intense sunshine, water heating up to +15°C, and waves no higher than five meters.
- The high-wave season starts in September, peaking in January.
- In Donegal, the roaring ocean occasionally hurls waves as high as 23 meters onto the shore.
There are warmer places for comparison, such as Santander, Spain .
Due to the cool climate, surfers in Ireland wear full wetsuits no less than 3mm thick, along with hoods, gloves, and water shoes. Raincoats and umbrellas are daily essentials for Irish residents. Rain, gray skies, coastal winds often reaching ferocious speeds – how can one surf in such weather? Yet, the experience of surfing Irish waves is worth postponing a trip to the tropics: the sensations here are intense and unique! Let’s get acquainted with the Irish surf spots, starting from the north.
County Donegal and the Surfing Capital – Bundoran
Donegal is the name of both the northernmost county, a bay, and a tiny town on its shores. The area offers the largest number of surfing spots, from “soft” beaches to reef zones: Inishowen, Dunfanagh, Fanad Head, Bloody Foreland, Rossnowlagh, Dungloe, and Bundoran.
Here, both beginners and experienced surfers can find waves to suit their tastes.
Donegal Coastline
Rossnowlagh – a settlement south of Donegal with a 5-kilometer-long beach nearby.
Rossnowlagh, Ireland
There are surf schools and equipment rental centers here. In mid-August, the Irish International Surf Festival takes place. Along the coast stands the grand and luxurious Sandhouse Hotel with a restaurant, offering 4-star accommodations starting at 85 euros per night.
Luxurious Sandhouse Is Worth Its Price
In the town of Donegal, you can explore the medieval stone castle of the O’Donnells, who led the Irish struggle against English conquerors in the 15th–17th centuries.
O’Donnell Castle, Ireland
Deep in the woods lie the ruins of a 15th-century Franciscan monastery, home to the Donegal Museum.
Seven Irish sandy beaches have been awarded the European Union’s Blue Flag, the most popular being those with reefs and cliff arches – remnants of eroded waves – near the town of Bundoran. This location is considered the surfing capital of Ireland, where famous waves like Pampa Point and The Peak crash into the shore. International competitions are held here, and the Surfworld Bundoran school operates in this area.
Bundoran Beach
Nomandsurfers – a camp in Bundoran for teenagers aged 12 and up, as well as adults, offers surfing lessons, English classes, and horseback riding.
The package, including lessons, residence or family accommodations, three meals a day, and excursions for one week, starts at 1,160 euros. In the town with a population of 2,000, you’ll find 28 diverse lodging options, including 4 hostels priced at 180 euros and up. The Bundoran Surf Lodge hostel organizes surfing sessions and excursions for its guests.
Bundoran Surf Hostel
The budget-friendly TurfnSurf Lodge is also popular among tourists. Nearby, you can rent a villa for 317 euros per week for a group of five people. Not far away, there is a golf club, the Waterworld Bundoran water park, restaurants, grocery shops, and stores offering surfing equipment. In the wellness center of Bundoran, oceanic seaweed extracts are used to heal joint diseases.
Spots in County Sligo
In Sligo, surfers are drawn to locations such as Strandhill, Easkey, Aughris, Mullaghmore, and Enniscrone. Mullaghmore – a predominantly ocean-facing peninsula with a village housing 150 residents and the Beach Hotel, offering rooms starting at 60 euros.
Mullaghmore Beach Hotel
On the western side of the headland, you’ll find cliffs, while the eastern part, sheltered from the ocean, features a sandy beach. This spot is ideal for professional surfers. A powerful left-breaking wave with fast, long, and voluminous tubes crashes onto a rocky seabed. Resembling a roaring beast, the wave is highly dangerous and suited only for brave extremists, yet it is remarkably consistent.
Paddling out to catch this wave requires significant strength, which is why, in recent years, surfers have been using tow-in techniques. The wave is unique because it gains power during high tide.
Strandhill
This spot is a favorite among both locals and visitors. The location boasts a calm beach break with well-formed waves year-round, making it easy to paddle out. Clean lefts and rights form barrels that intensify during winter.
The local Surf School associated with Strandhill Hostel operates here. Lessons for beginners and advanced surfers can be booked on-site. Accommodation with breakfast at the hostel costs 15 euros.
Strandhill Hotel
Apart from the beach with large sand dunes and seaweed baths, tourists are drawn to the prehistoric sanctuary Carrowmore, where massive boulders create a fascinating spectacle.
Carrowmore Sanctuary
Nearby, you’ll also find a comfortable hotel and a golf club.
Easkey
The name translates as “abundant in fish.” Easkey is a coastal village with a population of 240. The popular spot can get crowded. There are two distinct breaks. The left wave is more consistent, with peaks forming on the reef up to 3–4.5 meters high. On a good swell, surfing here is truly inspiring.
The legendary right-hand break is known for its perfect, monstrous waves, though such conditions are rare. More often, fickle waves can disappoint those familiar with Easkey’s potential. The seabed here is rocky. In the village, visitors can warm up and grab a bite at a pub or an Indian restaurant and stay at a nearby campsite.
Achill Island
Between surf sessions, you can take a meaningful stroll to the 18th-century abbey or the Rosslea Castle, dating back to 1207. Fishing is another option; the nearby Easkey River is home to salmon.
Clare, Ireland
Nearby, you’ll find spots in County Mayo: Belmullet, Achill Island, Westport/Louisburgh, and Carrowniskey, as well as in County Clare (Lahinch, Inch, Crab Island). These locations are less crowded due to their remote nature.
Inch – County Clare
Inch is a village on the Dingle Peninsula. Its pristine, picturesque nature and powerful, well-formed waves under swells from all directions make this spot unique. These waves are especially suitable for longboard use. The seabed consists of reefs and rocks.
In summer, a surf school with friendly local instructors operates on the 5-kilometer-long beach. Visitors can warm up or grab a bite at Sammy’s café, a restaurant, or a bar located on the beach.
The village has an ATM with currency exchange, a small shop, and three boutique hotels with restaurants catering to those seeking a peaceful retreat. Shared dormitory rooms for 4–6 people start at just 15 euros, while standard double rooms and apartments are available from 40 euros. Other activities include windsurfing, kayaking, and fishing.
Ballybunion – County Kerry
Ballybunion is a small town with excellent infrastructure. The spot features a sandy seabed. Various types of surf conditions are available: beach break (waves breaking on the beach), point break (waves encountering underwater rock formations), and reef break (waves crashing onto rocks or reefs on the seabed).
Right-hand waves are well-formed and often powerful, most active during high tide. In the evenings, the atmosphere offers peaceful and quiet surfing. A pleasant bonus: you might even spot dolphins. Three town hotels are known for their excellent service and plentiful rooms.
Diamond Coast Hotel, Ballybunion
The luxurious 19th Golf Guesthouse, named for its proximity to the golf club, was voted the best guesthouse in Ireland in 2012. A popular choice is the Ocean hostel with its bar. Prices start at 28 euros. Other activities include cycling and horseback riding. Nearby attractions include the Carrigafoyle Castle, located 10 kilometers away.
Carrigafoyle Castle
County Waterford
On Ireland’s southern coast lies Waterford, a town founded by Vikings in 914. The nearby Tramore resort features a 5-kilometer-long beach with appealing surfing conditions. The neighboring area of Dunmore East has numerous quiet coves, with the most popular being Lady’s Cove, a surfer’s paradise. The lack of crowds and consistent, perfectly hollow waves make this spot one of the best in Ireland.
Dunmore East, Ireland
There are both left and right-hand breaks, but the real charm lies in the left-hand wave breaking off the reef. The seabed consists of rocks, and currents can be encountered. In Tramore, hostels start from €17, and hotels from €30, though in Dunmore East, accommodations are more expensive.
In Waterford, visitors can explore the Museum of History housed in the ancient Norman Reginald’s Tower, the Museum of Treasures with archaeological exhibits, the beautiful Holy Trinity Cathedral, and the Bishop’s Palace.
Reginald's Tower, Waterford
Waterford Castle
Ireland boasts a well-developed tourism infrastructure. Hotels are cozy, clean, and provide European-level service. Dining at local establishments is delicious but quite expensive, with meals starting at €20.
For budget-friendly options, bistros and pubs are recommended. The cheapest way is cooking on your own using ingredients from supermarkets or markets.
How to Get There
- A direct flight from Moscow to Dublin is available during the high season, and year-round from major European cities.
- Ferries from European countries also arrive here.
- Buses operate along the coastline, connecting Dublin to various towns.
- Ireland has an extensive road network, though rural roads tend to be narrow.
- The best way to get around is by renting a motorhome.
- Reaching the northwestern spots from Dublin takes about three hours.
Nighttime Dublin, Ireland
Ireland remains etched in the heart as a country of welcoming people, untouched heritage, pristine nature, and roaring waves.
Video
Watch a thrilling video about Irish surfers:
