Best Surfing Beaches in Ireland

From surfing to swimming to a playground for kids, Lahinch Beach has it all! The town center is only a two-minute walk from the beach. There are surf schools and rental places for all your beach needs. If you are in the mood to relax and enjoy the sea breeze, there are delicious restaurants with spectacular views.

This beach is an ideal representation of the Northern Irish coast. Rolling hills and dunes fall into cliffs and sandy beaches. While not great for swimming, this beach is known for its perfect surfing conditions.

One of Ireland's most notable beaches, Inchydoney offers a surreal environment: gorgeous golden sand, a beautiful lodge, and a wide range of activities. Pub and spa located near the beach, which has great parking. In the water, common activities include (predominately) surfing and swimming. Ideal for long walks and beautiful views of Ireland!

Surf, swim, stare in awe at the perched castle, or walk your dog. Cliffs and headlands form a surreal background. Explore the caves with your children, head into the nearby salon, eat ice cream on the beach, or walk to the Mens Beach or Nuns Beach. Both beaches are accessed by large, very steep concrete pavements, and divided by the cliff on which stands the ruined castle. The beach to the left of the castle (if looking toward the sea) is called the "Men's Beach", and the one to the right the "Ladies Beach", given to the fact that men used to bathe on a separate beach from women and children. There is a small cafe, hot seaweed baths and ice cream shop on the women's beach. The large cliffs to the right of the women's beach have shallow caves. The sheer cliffs over the beach have a scenic walking path, featuring a blowhole, views of sea stacks and a multitude of wildlife.

Mullaghmore Beach is a stunning coastal destination located in County Sligo, Ireland, renowned for its serene ambiance and picturesque oceanfront views. This beach boasts a unique blend of natural beauty with its expansive sandy shores and a charming harbor that captures the essence of traditional Irish seaside life. The peaceful vibe makes it perfect for visitors looking to relax or engage in water-based activities while soaking in the breathtaking scenery.

The beach is particularly favored for its crystal-clear waters and moderate waves, inviting a variety of visitors from families to adventure enthusiasts. Its location offers a tranquil retreat away from urban bustle but still provides easy access to local amenities and cultural experiences. The welcoming community and pristine environment combine to create a memorable beach destination suitable for all seasons.

Easky Beach in Ireland is a surfer's paradise with scenic views and rich history. Located next to a pier and rocky cliffs, Easky Beach is a serene destination that doesn't attract large crowds. This quiet destination is great for sightseeing, and a camera is a must! Take advantage of the sights by heading up to the Roslee Castle, a 13th-century tower that is still well-preserved for tourists. Make sure to bring your board if you're into surfing, but be cautious of the big waves and rocky cliffs! At the end of the day when you've had enough fun exploring the beach, stop by The Fisherman's Weir for a drink or Indian Kababish for a quick bite. If a quiet beach with beautiful sights and waves is what you're looking for, then stop searching because Easky Beach is the one for you!

Dugort Beach, nestled on Achill Island in County Mayo, Ireland, is a stunning coastal gem known for its expansive sandy shoreline and striking Atlantic Ocean views. The beach exudes a tranquil and welcoming atmosphere, making it a favored destination for both locals and visitors seeking a serene retreat surrounded by nature. Its location offers a unique blend of rugged coastal beauty and charming village life, where the fresh sea air and rolling waves create an inviting environment for relaxation and exploration.

The beach’s wide sands and gentle gradient attract families, solo travelers, and adventure seekers alike. Its natural setting is framed by lush hills and rolling farmlands, providing spectacular backdrops for walks and photography. Dugort Beach combines calmness and vitality, offering a perfect escape with opportunities to unwind or engage in outdoor activities, reflecting the quintessential Irish seaside experience.

Throughout the year, Dugort sees a steady influx of visitors drawn by its clean waters and peaceful vibe. The beach's unspoiled nature and friendly local character make it a unique spot on Achill Island, with a welcoming community and a rich connection to Ireland’s coastal heritage.

Enniscrone Golf Club (borders most of the beach) and The Old Cliff Baths (a historical landmark) overlook this pristine beach. A notable tourist attraction is the Kilcullens Seaweed Baths. Don't forget to swim, hike, and explore the town, which contains many surf shops and casual restaurants.

This North Atlantic beach is very popular among surfers. The hills of Ireland roll directly in the beachside. The pristine waters and stunning views also warrant a visit though.

Bundoran Beach lays in the seaside town of Bundoran at the southern tip of the county of Donegal. The population of Bundoran is about 2,000 people making the city a charming seaside location, but lacking in some amenities. You will not find luxury hotels in Bundoran, instead, you’ll find many families and individuals who travel from far and wide for the world-renowned surfing at the Tullan Strand. The Tullan Strand lays directly north of the main Bundoran Beach and offers ideal surfing for experienced surfers, however, this beach is not recommended to beginners due to the many rocks and reefs that are potentially dangerous. For visitors who choose to forgo the surfing, they can enjoy the calmly situated Bundoran Beach which has much smaller waves and less dangerous rocks. Bundoran Beach is a Blue Flag beach as of 2018 and is lifeguarded from June until September every year, making it a great spot for families and anyone trying to suntan in a calm setting. While there are no​ shops on the sand, the main street of Bundoran is a short 10-minute walk from the water, and in town, you’ll find many restaurants such as Caroline’s Cafe, Waves Surf Cafe, and La Sabbia Restaurant. The one surf shop in town, the Donegal Adventure Center, offers rentals and lessons. Other attractions in Bundoran are the Bundoran Adventure Park (classic carnival-style rides and food), the Waterworld Bundoran (many slides and a wave pool), and the Stracomer Stables (offers periodic horseback outings). The Bundoran Golf Club is a links-style golf course which is often enjoyed by surfers after a morning on the waves! Bundoran is a secluded yet bustling town on the Atlantic just waiting for you to experience its many attractions!

Golden sand. Four miles long. Beautiful views. Filmed in "Ryan’s Daughter." Great restaurants. All of this perfectly describes Inch Beach, one of the best beaches in Ireland and awarded Blue Flag status. Located on the Dingle Peninsula. Popular spots on the beach include the surfing school and Sammy's Restaurant, which serves fresh oysters. There is a large car park with reserved handicapped spaces, but you can even drive on the beach (just don't get stuck!). Great for families, surfers, photographers, and just about anyone!

Rossnowlagh Beach is a stunning coastal destination located in County Donegal, Ireland. Known for its vast sandy shores stretching along the Wild Atlantic Way, the beach offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and the surrounding rugged landscape. It is particularly favored by surfers and nature enthusiasts due to its strong waves and unspoiled natural beauty.

The beach exudes a welcoming and laid-back vibe, attracting families, adventure seekers, and those looking to unwind by the sea. Its wide expanse provides ample space for beachgoers to enjoy sunbathing, beachcombing, or simply soaking in the serene atmosphere. The nearby village of Rossnowlagh enhances the experience with local charm and cultural richness, making it a memorable coastal retreat.

Rossnowlagh Beach is also recognized for its environmental efforts and supports a range of outdoor activities, contributing to its reputation as a prime location for both relaxation and active recreation. The blend of natural splendor and vibrant community life creates a unique appeal for visitors from near and far.

Stradbally Beach, located on the scenic coast of Nederhorst Den Berg in Munster, Ireland, offers a picturesque and tranquil seaside experience that captivates visitors with its natural charm and vibrant local vibe. The beach is characterized by its combination of pebbles and sandy stretches, framed by rocky outcrops and cliffs that add a rugged elegance to the shoreline. This beach provides a striking backdrop for relaxation, family outings, and water sports, making it a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
Visitors appreciate the beach for its inclusive atmosphere, welcoming diverse groups including LGBTQ communities and dog owners, enhancing the overall friendly and open environment. The presence of lifeguards and safety measures ensures a secure setting for swimmers and beachgoers. Stradbally Beach’s accessibility and available amenities cater to a wide range of needs, enhancing its appeal as a versatile recreational destination. Its natural beauty, combined with facilities and a lively yet laid-back ambiance, make it a must-visit spot in the Munster region.
Whether for a peaceful stroll, engaging in watersports, or enjoying the vibrant party scene, Stradbally Beach balances leisure and excitement, providing memorable experiences for all who visit.

Killahoey Beach, located in Fir Na Creeve, Ulster, Ireland, is a serene coastal destination known for its natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere. The beach offers a peaceful escape with its scenic views and calm surroundings.
It is situated near the picturesque town of Dunfanaghy, which provides a charming backdrop with its traditional Irish settings and stunning landscapes. The surrounding area is rich in wildlife and natural wonders, making it an ideal spot for nature lovers and those seeking tranquility.
Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities such as walking, birdwatching, and exploring the local area's natural beauty.