Top Surf Beaches in Ireland – Kilmallock Credit Union

Is this the year you learn to surf or perfect your hobby? Take a look at our list of the top surf beaches around our beautiful country.

Did you know Ireland has some of the best surfing in the world, with everything from epic big waves to long rolling beach breaks for every level of surfer. There are plenty of surf schools dotted throughout the country offering equipment hire and lessons.

Wherever you venture in Ireland this year, get there with a loan from us! Our Stay@Home Staycation Low Rate Loan is available now at 6% (6.17% APR). You can Apply for a Loan Online. New members can Join & Apply Same Day. You can now Join Us Online or call 063 98355.

MUNSTER

Lahinch, Co. Clare
Possibly Ireland’s best known surf beach and consistently voted one of the top surf spots. It provides a wide variety of waves and conditions for all types of surfers; there are excellent beaches with consistent waves for beginners and plenty of good reef breaks for more advanced surfers looking for a challenge. There is an abundance of surf shops, Lahinch surf schools and accommodation in the town. In May 2006, 44 surfers managed to make a new world record by riding one small wave at Lahinch.

Fanore, Co. Clare
Lying in the heart of the Burren lies the small Fanore Beach. Although not well known, this beach offers spectacular views of the surrounding area and reliable surf, which is perfect for beginners.

Aileen’s Wave, Co. Clare
Our mystical surf spot known internationally as ‘Ireland’s perfect wave’, Aileen’s Wave appears only a few times a year when the conditions are just right. Found close to the Cliffs of Moher, this wave can reach heights of up to 12 metres. This wave is only for professional surfers and even then it’s usually only surfed by the world’s top surfers but it is a joy to watch they surf it, if you get a chance!

Inch, Co. Kerry
A favourite among local and visiting surfers, this beautiful beach is suitable for all levels of surfers. This beach hosts one of the longest waves in Europe for those who have the experience and the fitness to ride it all the way to shore.

Ballybunion, Co. Kerry
One of north Kerry’s best surf spots for the last 20 years. A picturesque location, surrounded by rugged cliffs, the Men’s Beach (as the locals call it) has been a hot spot for surfers for over twenty years. This beach is suitable for beginners and the more advanced surfers, who can head out to the Atlantic Cliff breaks for more challenging waves.

Inchydoney, Co. Cork
The beach at Inchydoney stretches out as far as the eye can see, this beach is perfect for beginners. Don’t forget to check out the waves on the Inchydoney Beach Cam first to make sure your trip is worthwhile.

Castlefreke, Co. Cork
A bit of a hidden gem for intermediate surfers with excellent rips; in rougher seas it offers consistent surf. Long Strand is located just west of Ardfield, near the village of Rathbarry.

Tramore, Co. Waterford
Waterford’s gorgeous Copper Coast is home to the undisputed home of surfing for the east coast. However, the swell is not quite as reliable here as on the west coast, so it is best to check conditions before setting off. The beach is suitable for beginner and intermediate surfers.

ULSTER

Rossnowlagh, Co. Donegal
One of the finest beaches in Ireland to learn how to surf coming with a steady flow of waves and wind providing perfect conditions for all water sports. The beach is also very popular with local windsurfers and kitesurfers. The three-kilometre long, Blue Flag beach is stunning both on and offshore.

Tullan Strand, Bundoran, Co. Donegal
The golden sands of Tullan Strand is a mecca for surfers of all levels, as it catches a lot of swell. If you are looking for lessons, Bundoran is awash with surf schools, all of which are of a really high standard.

Whiterocks, Co. Antrim
Home to consistent surf conditions throughout the year, this long, sandy beach is suitable for surfers of all levels, from beginners to experienced surfers.

Portrush, Co. Antrim
Often described as the centre of Northern Ireland’s surfing scene, this beach produces good quality beach breaks for surfers of all levels and is also a popular destination for bodyboarders.

CONNACHT

Strandhill, Co. Sligo
Strandhill is generally considered to be one of the best beach breaks in the country; this beach break has an easy paddle-out and delivers a reliable stream of waves in both summer and winter. Don’t forget to try out the VOYA seaweed baths are the perfect way to relax after an arduous day in the surf.

Mullaghmore, Co. Sligo
Named one of the best surfing spots in the world by Lonely Planet in 2013, the waves have been known to reach heights of 15 metres. This beach features consistent good waves all year round and is one of the best big-wave surf spots in Ireland.

Easkey, Co. Sligo
This gorgeous little spot was named as one of the must-visit spots for travelling surfers looking for that perfect wave in Surfer Magazine. The waves can be surfed all year round and is suitable for experienced surfers.

Enniscrone, Co. Sligo
The relatively shallow waters of this glorious sandy beach make it perfect for beginners. This 5km strand never seems to get crowded and has a very good surf school.

Belmullet, Co. Mayo
With waves to suit all levels of surfers, the “Black Shore” at Elly Bay, near Belmullet, is recognised as one of the premier surf beaches in Mayo.

If you know of other beaches that should be added to this list, please let us know!

Happy surfing!!