👋 Hi, I’m Brian, VagaGuide and Digital Marketing Executive at Vagabond & Driftwood Tours.
It’s no secret that Ireland is a great place to surf.
Once a fringe activity, surfing in Ireland has grown massively in popularity in recent years.
When you consider Ireland’s 4000km long coastline and the quaint coastal towns, like Lahinch and Bundoran, it should be no surprise that Ireland is a prime surfing destination.
The feeling of being carried along by a wave that has traveled hundreds of thousands of kilometers to reach the shore is truly something special and will stay with you forever. Ireland is just the place to do it.
Read on for Ireland's surfing story, including my personal favourite spots to catch some waves.
🏄🏼 A Short History Of Surfing In Ireland
Surfing first arrived in Ireland in 1949. Fourteen-year-old Joe Roddy took to the water on his homemade paddleboard on the east coast. Believe it or not, he was inspired by an article in a woodwork manual!
In 1962, a bored, young man from Bray on the East coast of Ireland, called Kevin Cavey discovered surfing after reading about it in a Reader’s Digest magazine.
After his DIY attempts with marine ply misfired, Kevin ordered a balsa surfboard kit. Following trips to Hawaii and California, Kevin founded the Bray Island Surf Club. This was one of the first catalysts for the spread of surfing in Ireland.
Surfing is now booming in Ireland. From Tramore in Ireland’s Ancient East to the Causeway Coastal Route in Northern Ireland, and all along the Wild Atlantic Way, surfing culture is now a large part of Irish life.
🤙🏻 Where To Surf In Ireland?
Some of the best places to try surfing in Ireland are situated along the world-famous Wild Atlantic Way driving route.
There are popular surfing beaches all over Ireland, from Waterford in the southeast of the country all the way to Donegal in the north.
Remote beaches like Dunfanaghy beach in north Donegal, Brandon Bay in Kerry and Spanish Point in Clare are all favourites among surfers.
Surfing hotspots like Lahinch, Tramore and Bundoran are perfect for beginners with accommodation, rentals and surf schools right there on the beach.
🌊 Big Wave Surfing in Ireland
Iconic waves aren’t just for Hawaii and Australia! Big wave surfing in Ireland has really taken off in recent years.
Aileen’s is one of Ireland’s most famous waves. This mighty wave can grow as high as 12m (40ft). It requires specific stormy conditions and strong, offshore, easterly winds to make an appearance. Aileen’s is named after the nearby Aill na Searrach (Foal’s Leap) Cliffs.
The location isn’t too bad either; if you’re brave enough to catch it, Aileen’s will roll you right into the foot of the world-famous Cliffs of Moher.
Mullaghmore Head in Sligo is another popular place for big wave surfing in Ireland.
Although it's incredibly fickle, when it does break, it's capable of producing some of the best and most intimidating big waves on the planet.
This surf spot attracts big wave surfers from all over the world with waves reaching heights of 60ft.
The youngest surfer to take on this monster wave was 14-year-old Ben Larg from Scotland who managed a 9m (30ft) wave.
Safe to say, we will not be surfing these big waves on tour!
🌡️ How Cold Is Surfing In Ireland?
Coldwater surfing in Ireland is the name of the game.
The Atlantic Ocean sure is invigorating. It’s fresh!
In the summer, the average water temperature in Ireland does not exceed 20°C (68°F). In winter, things get even colder! The winter ocean temperature in Ireland can dip under 10°C (50°F).
Having said that, surfing in Ireland is possible all year round. For the more dedicated, insulated surfers, the winter season is the best time. This is when the bigger swells come in off the Atlantic. Irish surfers wear 6mm thick wetsuits and look like seals in the water!
It might not be appealing to everyone but the reward is when all the conditions align, you get perfect waves.
🚐 Can You Surf In Ireland On A Vagabond Tour?
What visit to Ireland would be complete without riding a wave on the Wild Atlantic Way? And it is possible to surf on all of our active Vagabond adventure tours.
Surf excursions on a Vagabond adventure tour will depend on the group preferences and weather conditions. Our tours are designed to be flexible. Alternative activities are available if people don’t want to surf.
Gentle, wide-open beaches. World-famous big waves. Ireland has something for all levels of surfer.
Experience surfing in Ireland on an active Vagabond adventure tour. Find a tour that meets your preferences and look forward to diving into the Atlantic.
