The Municipal District of Comeragh

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Annestown is a picturesque cove on the Copper Coast of County Waterford that catches south-westerly swells. It provides a punchy, fun beach break for surfers looking to explore Ireland's lesser-visited southern surf territory.

Access. Found along the R675 coast road between Tramore and Dungarvan. Equipment rentals and lessons are sourced from nearby Tramore surf shops.

Notes. Exposed to strong undertows and unsuitable for beginners when swells are large.

County Clare

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Carrigaholt Bay on the Loop Head Peninsula provides flat-to-choppy sheltered waters ideal for progression in wind-powered board sports. It serves as a dependable flat-water launch area for kiteboarders and wingfoilers looking to ride Atlantic winds in a scenic estuary setting.

Access. Reached via the N68 and R487 west of Kilkee. Local kite and wingfoil instructors occasionally run sessions here when weather systems align.

Notes. Tidal currents within the Shannon estuary can be strong; check local tide tables.

County Galway

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A beautiful, sheltered bay with white sand that has become a premier destination for kitesurfing and wingfoiling in the west of Ireland. The shallow, turquoise water provides a perfect playground for wind-powered sports.

Access. Located near Roundstone in Connemara; accessible by car with parking near the beach.

Notes. Best suited for wind sports; not a primary wave surfing destination. Check wind forecasts as the bay is sensitive to direction.

Ireland

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Downings on the Rosguill Peninsula is a board-sport playground offering both wave surfing and exceptional wind-sport conditions. The wide sandy bay captures clean swells for surfers while drawing dedicated kite and wingfoil crowds thanks to steady Atlantic breezes.

Access. Drive north from Letterkenny via the R245 and R238 to Downings. Local outdoor adventure providers and surf schools offer rentals and coaching.

Notes. Exposed northern exposure means water temperatures remain cold year-round.

Ballymote-Tubbercurry Municipal District

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Easkey is a legendary reef break known for its consistent, high-quality waves that peel over a flat limestone shelf. It is a premier destination for experienced surfers seeking challenging, long-running rights and lefts.

Access. Located in County Sligo along the Wild Atlantic Way; accessible via car with a short walk to the point.

Notes. The reef is sharp and shallow at low tide; not suitable for beginners. Crowds can be an issue on good days.

The Borough District of Wexford

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Located on the east coast, this area offers unique conditions for kite and wingfoil enthusiasts who prefer the calmer, shallower waters of the Irish Sea. It is a favored spot for those looking to progress their wind-sport skills.

Access. Easily accessible from Wexford town; short drive to the coastal access points.

Notes. Tidal dependent; ensure you check local tide charts before heading out.

Ireland

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A stunning 5km long sand spit that offers excellent beach break conditions, making it one of the most popular spots in the southwest. The shifting sandbanks provide fun, manageable peaks suitable for all levels.

Access. Accessible by car from Dingle or Tralee; the beach is wide enough to drive onto in designated areas.

Notes. Exposed to the full force of the Atlantic, so conditions can change rapidly. Very popular with families and surf schools in summer.

County Cork

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Inchydoney Island near Clonakilty is one of Cork's premier surf destinations, featuring a wide, exposed sandy beach that generates consistent, user-friendly waves. It is popular with both beginner and intermediate surfers and hosts active local surf schools.

Access. Cross the causeway from Clonakilty via the R600. Well-established surf schools and rental shops operate directly from the hotel and beach parking areas.

Notes. Lifeguards are on duty during summer weekends; watch for shifting rip currents.

Ireland

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Lahinch is a vibrant surf town with a reliable beach break that attracts surfers from all over Europe. The bay captures Atlantic swells perfectly, offering a mix of peaks that cater to both beginners and advanced riders.

Access. Located in the heart of Lahinch village; easy walking access to the beach and multiple surf shops.

Notes. Can get very crowded during peak season and weekends. The town has a strong surf culture with excellent facilities.

The Municipal District of Wicklow

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Magheramore is a stunning, secluded sandy beach framed by dramatic red cliffs that picks up solid swells from the Irish Sea. It offers a heavier beach break suited for intermediate to advanced surfers looking for punchy waves away from the major crowds.

Access. Accessible via a narrow country lane off the R750 south of Wicklow Town, followed by a short walk down a steep cliff path. Board rentals and lessons are available by arranging with mobile surf coaches based in County Wicklow.

Notes. Strong rip currents occur frequently; the beach is unlifeguarded and parking is extremely limited.

Sligo Municipal Borough District

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Streedagh Strand features a sweeping three-kilometer sandy crescent backed by dunes, offering reliable beach break waves facing the Atlantic. It is an exceptional spot for both wave surfing and kite/wingfoiling due to clean cross-shore winds and wide-open spaces.

Access. Drive north from Sligo town via the N15, turning off towards Grange and following signs for Streedagh. Seasonal mobile surf and kite hire can be found locally, though bringing your own gear is recommended.

Notes. Watch out for shifting sandbanks and strong offshore winds for kite activities.

Ireland

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Widely considered the surf capital of Ireland, Tullan Strand offers consistent beach break peaks that work in a variety of swell conditions. It is a reliable spot for intermediate surfers, featuring long, sandy stretches with powerful Atlantic waves.

Access. Located on the edge of Bundoran town in County Donegal; easily accessible by car with ample parking and several surf schools nearby.

Notes. Strong rip currents are common; check with local surf schools before entering. Best during autumn and winter for experienced surfers.