It’s no longer a secret that Ireland boasts incredible surf, with both amateur enthusiasts and world-class professionals flocking to the Emerald Isle to experience its powerful Atlantic waves and jaw-dropping scenery. Blessed with an abundance of quality surf spots and delightfully uncrowded lineups, Ireland offers surfers the opportunity to carve up pristine waves...and have them largely to themselves. Not only that but Ireland boasts plenty of sandy beach breaks where beginners can hone their skills with the help of welcoming surf camps and schools.
Most of Ireland’s best surf spots are located along the windswept Atlantic coast, which is exposed to powerful swells (in contrast to the protected waters of the Irish Sea to the east). The coastal landscapes here are truly magnificent and provide an inspiring backdrop, whether you’re exploring big-wave territory or mellow banks.
In this article, we’ll share some of the best places to surf in Ireland and what to do away from the waves. We've also included our top picks for eco-friendly accommodations nearby, ensuring you can enjoy a sustainable surf vacation on the Emerald Isle.
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Sligo, County Sligo
Best place to surf in Ireland for big waves
Situated on the banks of the Garavogue River in Ireland’s north, the picturesque town of Sligo is renowned for its literary heritage and trad music scene. It’s also one of the best places to learn to surf in Ireland, with beginner-friendly waves rolling in at Strandhill, just 15 minutes’ drive from the town centre.
The waves at this stunning beach are consistently good throughout the year, providing perfect conditions for beginners to hone their skills. The newly-opened National Surf Centre houses Rebelle Surf School, which hosts women-only surf sessions, or you can learn the ropes with the team at the Strandhill Surf School.
Big wave surfers should head north to Mullaghmore Head where you'll find one of the world's biggest and heaviest waves. If that's not your scene, you can settle in on the cliffs to watch the daredevils in action, backed by Classiebawn Castle.
Away from the surf, you can explore the 13th-century ruins of Sligo Abbey and visit the Carrowkeel Megalithic Site, one of the most significant ancient sites in Ireland. Looming over Strandhill Beach is the peak of Knocknarea, a historic landmark believed to be the resting place of a powerful figure from ancient Celtic mythology. Be sure to leave a stone at her grave to keep her spirit contained!
Eco-friendly places to stay in Sligo
While it might be a little way from the beach, this eco-friendly hotel near Sligo is worth the drive. It occupies a 250-year-old building that is brimming with charm, as well as being the first luxury property in Ireland to earn the prestigious EU Flower certification for meeting the highest environmental standards. Not only has Coopershill been restored to minimise its environmental footprint but it grows much of its own food onsite.
"Irish hospitality at its best in a tranquil setting.” - Janette (read more reviews here)
Best places to surf in Ireland
Bundoran, County Donegal
Best place to surf in Ireland for advanced boardriders
A short hop north from Sligo is this tourist-friendly hub, which is a popular destination for those seeking sun and surf on Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way. The town's hinterland is nothing short of otherworldly, with the majestic Dartry mountain range serving as a breathtaking backdrop for some of the most scenic drives in the country.
At the heart of Bundoran's allure are its beautiful beaches, which have long been a mecca for surfers from near and far. Tullan Strand, with its near-perfect beach break, is where many locals first learned to surf while just a short drive away is the legendary “Peak". It’s considered one of Europe's premier performance waves, a first-class reef break that attracts skilled surfers from across the globe.
For those new to the sport, Bundoran offers a wealth of excellent surf schools and shops to help get you started. Establishments like Murfs Surf School, Surfworld and Bundoran Surf Co. are all highly regarded, with experienced instructors on hand to guide you through the fundamentals and help you progress.
Beyond the surf, be sure to make a stop at the awe-inspiring sea cliffs of Slieve League, where you can witness the raw power and breathtaking beauty of the Atlantic Ocean. Yoga classes on the beach are also available in Bundoran or you can embark on a sunset horse ride with the team at Donegal’s Equestrian Centre.
Eco-friendly places to stay near Bundoran
Surrounded by unspoiled bogland just 20 minutes’ drive from Bundoran, this multi-award-winning eco-lodge offers inspiring stays in its Skydome Yurts and Shepherd’s Hut. As part of its sustainability credentials, it has composting toilets, solar panels and a policy of no single-use plastics, as well as an organic farm where rare breed Dexter cows roam free. Lough Mardal Lodge's main building was constructed almost entirely from natural materials and all grey water is filtered naturally through a reed bed and wetland system. Definitely one of Ireland's best eco-friendly stays!
"Great place to switch off.” - Julie (read more reviews here)
Eco-friendly accommodation in Ireland
Dunfanaghy, County Donegal
Tucked away in the remote and ruggedly beautiful northern reaches of County Donegal, Dunfanaghy is a historic fishing port overlooking Sheephaven Bay. Arcing gracefully around the coastline is Killahoey Beach, a gorgeous stretch of golden sand that has become a magnet for surfers. The region's exposed position means the surf here is consistently good, although it never gets really crowded.
Nearby surf schools like Narosa are on hand to guide visitors to the best breaks, with their experienced instructors and well-stocked equipment catering to everyone from complete beginners to seasoned shredders. And if Killahoey isn't delivering the waves you want, there are plenty of other fantastic surf spots nearby, like the more mellow Downings, a Blue Flag beach that’s popular with windsurfers.
If you can drag yourself away from the water, embark on a hike to the summit of Mount Errigal, which looms large over the patchwork of bays and inlets that dot the coastline. History buffs shouldn’t miss a visit to The Workhouse, a heritage centre with a fascinating exhibition about the Great Famine.
Eco-friendly places to stay near Dunfanaghy
Located on Dunfanaghy’s main street, Arnold’s is a family-run hotel with 30 comfortable rooms, a cosy restaurant and a beer garden. In recent years, it has positioned itself as one of the most eco-friendly hotels in Dunfanaghy due to a range of sustainability initiatives. Aside from transitioning to using environmentally friendly cleaning supplies and biodegradable packaging, it sources Fair Trade and ethical products wherever possible.
“Unreal breakfast.” - Ambyr (read more reviews here)
Best places to surf in Ireland
Lahinch, County Clare
Best place to surf and golf in Ireland
Overlooking Liscannor Bay on the northwest coast of County Clare, this welcoming town is probably famed more for its links golf course than its surf. That being said, the waves here can be epic, particularly during the winter months when the swells can reach impressive heights.
For beginners looking to get their feet wet, the main beach is ideal, with mellow lefts and rights breaking over a sandy bottom. Experienced surfers craving more of a challenge can take advantage of the area’s reef breaks, including the left-handers at Cornish and Cregg.
If you’re in need of guidance, the Lahinch Surf Experience is the perfect place to start, with rentals and lessons for all levels. Alternatively, Ollie’s Surf Academy offers top-notch coaching for intermediate and advanced wave riders.
On a lay day, head north to the quaint village of Doolin or visit the breathtaking Cliffs of Moher, among Ireland's most iconic natural wonders. The form part of a UNESCO Geopark where you can stand on 330 million-year-old limestone fossil pavements.
Eco-friendly places to stay near Lahinch
Just a short drive from Lahinch, this eco-friendly hotel and spa has been certified as a carbon-neutral property by GreenMark. It runs completely on hydropower, sourcing its energy from the river that runs alongside the property. In addition to a steam room and sauna where you can relax in between surfs, there’s a restaurant serving modern Irish food and a bar dedicated to poet Dylan Thomas.
"Falls Hotel is a beautiful and well-maintained historic property with gorgeous gardens and an excellent onsite restaurant.” - Naomi (read more reviews here)
Eco-friendly accommodation in Ireland
Stradbally Beach, County Kerry
Best place to surf in Ireland for stunning scenery
On the Dingle Peninsula in County Kerry is Stradbally Beach, a magnificent stretch of sand that’s becoming increasingly popular with surfers. While the swell may not be as powerful here as some of Ireland’s other top surf spots, the landscapes are breathtaking, with rocky cliffs and rolling hills that provide a dramatic backdrop to sessions in the water.
During the summer months, the relatively calm waters make Stradbally an ideal spot for beginners, with expert instructors on hand at Kingdom Waves and the Jamie Knox Surf Shop. More experienced wave riders may prefer to stick to the spots further north, although intermediates looking to progress their abilities will find fun waves here.
The real draw of visiting this region extends far beyond the surf - the Dingle Peninsula is renowned as one of the most scenic driving routes in the world, with the Conor Pass winding precipitously along the towering cliffs. At the peninsula's easternmost point sits Dunmore Head, a dramatic promontory that affords stunning views of the nearby Blasket Islands, an important breeding site for grey seals.
Eco-friendly places to stay near Stradbally Beach
As a member of the Dingle Peninsula Eco Award Scheme, this sustainable B&B near Stradbally is taking strides to reduce its environmental footprint. It features 14 rooms that range from couple-friendly cottages to family suites and even self-catering apartments. Guests consistently rave about the incredible views and the delicious breakfast that’s served each morning.
"This place is gorgeous. It is right by the water and the views are incredible. The breakfast was delicious.” - Danielle (read more reviews here)
Sustainable surf trip to Ireland
Best time to surf in Ireland
The winter months (November to February) are generally considered the best time to surf in Ireland when the powerful Atlantic swells roll in. The sheer size and force of these winter waves is what draws serious surfers from around the globe to Ireland's rugged coastlines, as they provide the big, hollow and fast-moving breaks that many wave riders crave.
Of course, the trade-off for these epic winter surf conditions is that the days are short and the air and water temperatures freezing, making for a much harsher and more demanding surfing environment. If you’re visiting during the winter months, be sure to bring the right cold-water gear - namely a high-quality, insulating wetsuit with a hood, plus gloves and booties.
In contrast, the summer months offer a much more mellow and forgiving surf experience, with smaller, gentler waves that are ideal for beginner and intermediate surfers. While the water and air temperatures are at their warmest, this is still Ireland, so you’ll definitely need a wetsuit. If you don’t want to bring your own, many of the surf schools along the coast offer rentals.
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