The world’s surfing radar honed in on the West of Ireland last week with the discovery of one of Europe’s biggest waves. The ‘prowler’ is currently breaking on an undersea reef about two kilometres off the west coast.
It means Aileen’s, the ‘perfect’ wave at the base of the Cliffs of Moher that exploded onto the world’s surfing scene in recent years, now has a new rival as Ireland’s most spectacular surf spot.
The surfers who discovered the wave are refusing to disclose its exact location. However, with a stunning, rugged coastline that offers a fantastic variety of beach, reef and point breaks, there are plenty of other surfing spots to suit every level. And winter is the best time to ride the crest of Irish waves.
Surfing in Ireland: Climb into your gimpsuit and get stuck in
In fact, Ireland is quickly developing a reputation as a ‘cold Hawaii’ with wave quality and swell frequency now being mentioned in the same breath as the Pacific archipelago. While it’s true that our waters are a bit chillier than tropical locations, the benefit is that it keeps crowds at bay. With a wetsuit and the Atlantic’s warming Gulf Stream in our favour, you can comfortably take to the ocean even in the depths of winter.
The prime surfing season (September to May) is upon us so whether you’re a veteran or a novice now is the time to be grabbing your board. Here are the country’s top surf spots:
Donegal
Donegal is a county rich in scenery, culture and more importantly, waves. Surfing locations include Inishowen and Fanad Head in the north of the county. Head north-west for amazing waves around Dunfanagh, Bloody Foreland and Dungloe. Bundoran, meanwhile, is often referred to as ‘Ireland’s Surfing Capital’.
The town’s coastal area has a range of beach, reef and point breaks. From the world class reef break of the Peak to the ever consistent Tullan Strand, Bundoran has a suitable wave for all styles and levels of surfer.
Sligo
Sligo is another strong option for a surf holiday with internationally recognised beaches like Enniscrone and Strand Hill. West Sligo is also a haven for surfers with beaches like Aughris, Easkey and Enniscrone and several surf schools are dotted around the area. All levels of experience are catered for and with an emphasis on beach surfing it’s suitable both for novices and more experienced boarders.
Clare
Any surfer worth his sea salt will be familiar with the surfing Mecca of Lahinch in Clare with waves scattered all along its exposed coastline. The craggy landscape is complimented by numerous surf shops and schools. Other popular destinations along this particular stretch are Fanore, Doolin, Doonbeg and Spanish Point.
Rest of the West
There are plenty of other surf options along the west coast. The main locations for surfing in Mayo include Belmullet and Keel Strand on Achill Island, as well as the beaches around Westport like Bertra Beach. Galway also offers options, most notably in the Clifden area.
The south-west
Cork and Kerry are something of a surfing secret. The diverse coastline of Kerry hosts many surf spots from beach to reef point. The most popular locations are Ballybunion and Castlegregory. Clonakilty, meanwhile, is the biggest surfing draw in the rebel county although there is great quality surf along most of West Cork’s coastline.
Waterford
The main surfing hot spot in the south-east is Tramore Beach, a short drive from Waterford City. The seaside town has long been established as a surfing centre, and is home to one of Ireland’s oldest and most active surf clubs, the T-Bay Surf Club.
Click here for further info from Discover Ireland on adventure breaks and accommodation options.
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