Why hibernate when you could ride the waves with your kids this autumn with surf lessons for less than fifty quid per family?
Ireland has the biggest surf, the clearest water and a world famous reputation for this uber fun sport. With the right wetsuit, you can plan some big fun in the great outdoors, torch a ton of calories and have heaps of fun while learning a new skill too.
Set your sights on a mini-break around Ireland to get started:
Why go? Bundoran in Co. Donegal is the surf capital of Ireland. If you do nothing but relax, it’s a beautiful destination in which to while away a weekend.
What’s cool? From the world-class reef break that appears in the film The Peak to the attractive Tullan Strand, Bundoran has something to offer every level of surfer or wannabe. Bundoran town boasts quaint family-friendly pubs and cafés, and the food is fresh with lots of seafood. The beaches are perfect for beginner and intermediate surfers if you stay close to the shore while nearby Inishowen, Fanad Head, Dunfanaghy, Bloody Foreland and Dungloe offer the pros more challenging waves. You’ll be hanging ten in no time. Well, maybe.
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Why go? Neighbouring Sligo is one of the best-known adventure destinations in the country, with top-notch surfing and a beach full of regular enthusiasts at any time of the year. Beaches at Strandhill and Enniscrone are perfect for learners and so cool for the less-laboured activity of people-watching.
What’s cool? The beach at Easkey is legendary for huge swells. Expect numerous blue flag beaches, clean waters and great surfing. In August, Mullaghmore Head made the list of USA Today’s ‘World’s Most Surprising Surf Spots’ in competition for the hotspot with top destinations Dubai, India and Iceland. How swell is that?
Why go? Mayo is rich in great surfing beaches including Bertra, an arm of land extending into Clew Bay. By day enjoy spectacular views over Clare Island and by night enjoy the craic in the buzzing pubs and restaurants just up the road in Westport. For a total getaway, head for the windswept beaches of beautiful Belmullet, or bag a big wave at Keel Strand in Achill. The west is a real favourite among surfers worldwide and peeps who want to get away from it all for the weekend.
What’s cool? The surf school at Carownisky Strand in Louisburgh (linked in the heading), is one of the first surf schools established in Ireland. It’s open seven days a week every month of the year – apart from Christmas day, natch. That’s your Stephen’s day exploring drive sorted.
Why go? Visits to County Clare will slow your pulse and relax you in an instant. Any surfer worth their sea salt will be familiar with the surfing mecca of Lahinch. The surf schools here are a hive of activity, including Ben’s (linked in the headline), who offer one-off lessons or longer weekend surf clinics. This is a buzzing spot for a surfing mini-break. After a day riding (or falling over) the waves, kick back and enjoy live music and the craic in local pubs in the evening with a soul-soothing hot port. In most Irish shebeens, kids can remain on the premises until 9pm while mum and dad wind-down.
What’s cool? If you are looking for something a little quieter try the less crowded beaches such as Doolin, Doonbeg and Spanish Point. And get this; you can even learn a new lingo too, if you wish. Sign up to the Aloha Surf School in Fanore where instructors speak French, Spanish or Portuguese. Slick.
Why go? Kerry is undoubtedly the chill-out capital of Ireland. From beach to reef point, the Kingdom has it all along it’s diverse coastline. Inch and Banna Beaches are long, sandy, and bordered by the Kerry Mountains. In beautiful Ballybunion, world class surf breaks along four miles of golden sands will ensure a trip your family won’t forget, whether you’re a beginner or an intermediate. The Atlantic cliff break ensures exhilarating challenges for serious surfers too. Or you can just visit the spa in your hotel. Chill time either way!
What’s cool? At Brandon Bay, you’ll find the longest beach in the country and plenty of waves including classic waves called “Mossies” – (no worries I’ll have you well versed before you set off). The ledge out at Gary William point is ideal for the more experienced surfer. The Women’s Surf and Stand Up Paddle Boarding competition was held recently on this Kerry beach.
Why go? Cork is home to Fota Island… enough said. It also has some of the most beautiful beaches in the country, so grab your boards and get the picnic ready. The rebel county’s rebellious seas in the scenic beauty of Barleycove, Garrettstown or Castlefreke need to be on your Irish bucket list. Fact.
What’s cool? There is a seemingly endless beach at Inchydoney. Get the entire family wet suited and booted, because lessons run all year round here. Yippee!
Why go? You can’t beat Waterford’s gorgeous Copper Coast for a long stroll to calm the mind. It’s fringed with sandy beaches – like Bunhahon- and in the right conditions, can almost rival the west for fun. Almost, (I’m from Mayo, nothing ever trumps the homeland). Tramore is a centre of fun for surfing wannabes, and it’s perfect for all aptitudes.
What’s cool? You’ll find loads of surf schools, with lots of great restaurants and evening entertainment to keep you entertained in the evening. The Oceanics Surf School in Tramore (linked in the headline), holds ladies surfing weekends should you fancy heading off for a wellness weekend with the gals. Cool.
Check out surf schools in your area for some fun and exercise this winter.
