Best time to visit Ireland

Surfing the Perfect Wave in Ireland

Unwrap your sense of adventure in Ireland's surfing destinations

Best time: September–October

Surfing the Perfect Wave
Surfing the Perfect Wave
Surfing the Perfect Wave
Surfer at Garywilliam Point, Maharees peninsula, Kerry
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Head for the Irish coastline to ride the wild ocean waves. The island offers surfing experiences for all ages and abilities, with a wide variety of beaches for advanced surfers as well as for starters. Don't forget to check the most suitable destinations for the activity you would like to try out. Get a first-hand experience of paddle boarding, surfing or just enjoying charming coastal views.

However, if you don't know a thing about surfing but consider yourself an eager student, dare to learn and hit at least the smallest Irish wave. Better late than never, along the Brittas Bay there is a surfing school that will make sure you're safe and sound taking on a new challenge. Make the surfing experience your perfect family holiday, head for the best tourist destinations across the Irish coastline, such as Lahinch in Co Clare or Co Kerry. And don't forget to have a glimpse of the magnificent beaches of Barley Cove, Garrettstown or Castlefreke.

Besides, Ireland is a place where you can find the perfect surfing wave—Aileen’s. However, if you feel that you ​still need some practice, better try your hand riding a smaller wave. As apart from being the most thrilling and exciting waves it's also the most dangerous one. Thus, no matter how good you are in surfing, Ireland has got something for all tastes.

Practical info

When is surfing season in Ireland, and when is the best time to surf?

The surfing season in Ireland starts from September until April, and the prime time for surfing is from September to October. Although water temperature remains warm during autumn, the best surfing conditions only last for a few hours a day, varying depending on weather and ocean conditions. Thus, it's best to check surf reports beforehand. To avoid crowded areas, autumn is an excellent time to go for surfing on Irish beaches. Show more

Which coast of Ireland are the best destinations to surf, and which areas have the most consistent surf?

The west coast of Ireland offers the most consistent surf, with Donegal, Sligo, Mayo, Clare, and Kerry being the top surfing destinations. Lahinch, Co Clare, is one of the popular surfing spots in the country popular among surfers of all levels. Kerry has the longest coastline, making it perfect for exploring different beaches and various water sports activities. If you're looking for the biggest waves, then Bundoran, in County Donegal, is known as the surf capital of Ireland. Show more

What makes Ireland suitable for beginner surfers, and which are the best beaches for novice surfers?

Ireland is an ideal destination for beginners as it offers a wide range of sheltered beaches and surf schools. If you're learning how to surf, then Brittas Bay in County Wicklow and Ballyheigue beach in County Kerry, known for their calm surf spots, offer safer conditions. Moreover, many professional surfers provide lessons throughout the year and specialize in teaching newcomers the correct and safe surfing techniques. Show more

For intermediate surfers, when should they avoid surfing Aileen's wave, and which waves should they attempt instead?

Aileen's wave, located in County Clare, is the most famous wave in Ireland, and only experienced surfers should ride it as it's known to be powerful and dangerous. Intermediate surfers should opt to start with smaller waves like Lahinch left or right or Trá Bui - a beach in County Donegal. Before attempting to ride any wave, surfers should assess their skill level, the wave types and conditions, and only surf the waves that match their surfing level. Show more

Apart from surfing, what other coastal activities are enjoyable in Ireland?

The Island of Ireland offers a wide variety of coastal activities besides surfing. Tourists can take a boat trip to spot marine wildlife like whales or dolphins, explore the cliffs of Moher, or visit an oceanarium to watch the sea animals. Sea kayaking, windsurfing, kite surfing, and paddleboarding are some of the common activities for tourists to enjoy. For a refreshing experience, tourists can also enjoy a stroll along some of Ireland's most scenic beaches like Portmarnock, Flemish strand, or Fanore beach. Show more

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Last updated: by Eleonora Provozin