The Best Surfing Spots in Ireland

Trinity University Surfing Club
Dec 6, 2022
2 min read

Updated: Dec 11, 2022

While some of you might not associate Ireland with surfing but rather with rain, Guinness and potatoes, Ireland does have some amazing surfing spots. Read our blog below to find out the top 5 best surfing spots in Ireland!

1. Mullaghmore, Co. Sligo

Mullaghmore was crowned on of the best surfing spots in the world by Lonely Planet and is therefore the top spot in our list. The waves here can get up to 15 metres high and high winds can present obstacles. This spot is only suitable for expert surfers but also non-surfers can enjoy themselves by watching the breath-taking waves.

Photo by Red Bull

2. Bundoran, Co. Donegal

Bundoran, or Fundoran as the locals sometimes call it, is also one of the best places to surf in Ireland. International Pro surfers, who are at the top of their game, travel from all over the world to surf the waves off the coast of Donegal. Due to the huge variety of waves, breaks, and levels of difficulty, Bundoran is also among the greatest sites in Ireland for beginners to learn how to surf.

Photo by Guide Ireland

3. Easkey, Co. Sligo

The Easkey Surf and Information Centre became a hub for surfers in 1995 when the Irish Surfing Association made this location its home and is one of Ireland’s most raved-about surf locations. The waves here hollow down and move faster than beach breaks because they break over rocks rather than sand and can occasionally produce a mega wave. Similar to Mullaghmore, this spot should only be reserved for expert surfers.

Photo by Ireland Highlights

4. Inchydoney, West Cork

One of Ireland's most stunning beaches is located at the country's very southern tip. Inchydoney is one of Ireland's longest and broadest beaches and has consistently been rated as one of the country's top beaches. This location is perfect for beginners because the waves are not as large as those on the west coast.

Photo by Guide Ireland

5. Strandhill, Co. Sligo

Most people agree that one of the top beach breaks in Ireland is at Strandhill, a pretty surf village on the West coast. It has consistently produced some of Ireland's top surfers over the years, therefore earning its spot in this list. If surfing is something you've never done but would like to try, you can take a class at one of the fantastic local surf schools. This is an ideal location for beginners.