What’s So Special about Irish Surfing?

“Ireland has one of the most wave rich coastlines in the world. We’re the battering ram for swells generated in the Atlantic which means there’s no shortage of days to surf either. Our world class breaks attract surfers from all over the world throughout winter with everything from big waves for the more advanced surfers, to smaller, more user friendly beaches and reefs for beginners and intermediates.

Surfing in Ireland is a unique experience, to say the least. Our breathtaking coastline brings an extra special element to it all with amazing waves perfectly positioned in the most beautiful locations. Sheer cliff faces, mountains oozing with character and enchanting castles that could tell a tale or two are some of Ireland’s best attributes.

An aspect of surfing in Ireland that a lot of travelling surfers comment on is our energetic pub culture. There’s nothing a pint and some tunes after a fun day in the sea with your mates. Nowhere compares to home in my opinion.”

Just 23 years old, this Donegal man is a professional surfer for Redbull, inspired by growing up watching big wave surfers tackling the impressive and world-famous waves at Mullaghmore Head in Co Sligo. He hails from the surf haven of Bundoran in Co.Donegal, northwest Ireland. Read more about him here. 

The west coast is where you’ll find Ireland’s surfing beaches. Though most visitors want to head to the southwest, it’s really in the rural northwest corner of the island that you’ll find not only the best landscapes for hiking but also the best beaches for surfing (in fact, many of the best beaches in Ireland are actually north of Galway, mostly because they’re off the beaten path). Read on for a selection on a few surf spots that we’ve selected.

A popular spot for bathing, surfing and even kitesurfing, Rossnowlagh is a large beach in southern Donegal – in fact, the beach is about 3km in length. Unlike the other beaches on this list, Rossnowlagh doesn’t have its own village.

Rossnowlagh Beach is recognised as one of Ireland’s best Blue Flag surfing beaches. If you’re looking for big waves, autumn and winter is the best time of year. The closest towns are Ballyshannon – home to the famous annual Rory Gallagher festival – and Donegal town.

Easkey is a small town on the narrow coastal road from Sligo to Ballina. Home to a pretty interesting fortified tower (complete with a “hidden” set of stairs to the top) and a cute downtown, Easkey also plays host to plenty of surfers. However, the waves here aren’t as calm as they are in Strandhill or Bundoran, and is really only be for confident surfers.

Worked up an appetite with all that surfing? Afterwards, we recommend you tuck into a deliciously beautiful home-cooked meal at Pudding Row, an award-winning café in the village.

Destination Spotlight: Sligo