Summer’s gnarly here!
Surfing is huge in Ireland these days, not to mention a massive draw for tourists, and the Wild Atlantic Way easily offers some of the country’s best spots for enthusiasts of all levels.
With over 100 beaches offering a wide range of unique surfing conditions, it’s no surprise that Ireland’s west coast attracts everyone from tenured adrenaline junkies to eager learners and everyone in between.
One spot that has become synonymous with surfing over the years is Lahinch, a small seaside town overlooking Liscannor Bay on the northwest coast of county Clare. Lahinch, or LA as local surfers sometimes call it, has it all. The beach is calm and safe and offers a great place for beginners to learn the ropes. Those who venture beyond the beach along the surrounding coastline will be rewarded with numerous points and reefs suitable for all levels. The town itself is well geared for the surfing community with plenty of shops to buy equipment and to top up on supplies. You’re also not too far from Aileens, an exposed reef break beneath the Cliffs of Moher home to some of the best waves in the world.
Another great spot for catching waves, especially during the summer months, is Ballybunion on county Kerry’s beautiful north-west coast. The scenic coastal town and resort is recognised as one of north Kerry’s best surf spots and is home to the Ballybunion Surf School. With four miles of blue flagged beaches, Ballybunion offers waves for beginners, intermediates, while the Atlantic cliff break provides exhilarating surf for the seriously advanced. Running since 2004, lessons at Ballybunion Surf School are run by fully qualified surf instructors and beach lifeguards. The school also runs summer camps every year. For more information, ballybunionsurf.com.
With one of Ireland’s longest and most breathtaking coastlines, county Cork offers a host of great places to surf. A must-visit spot for any surfer is Inchydoney in West Cork. The longboard-friendly and versatile beach boasts a range of different types of waves depending on where one paddles out from. Just a few minutes’ drive from Clonakilty, the beach also offers a surf school in the summer. Another great spot in West Cork is Long Strand, which sits between Clonakilty and Rosscarbery. Renowned for surfing, Long Strand is a long stretching beach famous for its beautiful, California-esque sunsets and peaceful vibes. Unfortunately, the beach is not suitable for swimming due to currents but it’s a beautiful place for experienced surfers to witness some of the most gorgeous views of Cork’s coast.
Some other very popular surfing spots along the Wild Atlantic Way include Portrush in county Antrim, Bundoran in county Donegal, Strandhill in county Sligo, and Carrowniskey in county Mayo.
It’s also important to keep a watchful eye out as you travel long the Wild Atlantic Way as the route is full of secret surfing spots known only to those in the loop.