Best surf spots across Northern Ireland
Surfs up 🏄
Last updated 23rd Jul 2022
Surfers travel from all around the globe to experience our spectacular coastline and fantastic surfing conditions provided by the Irish sea.
Northern Ireland is a real hidden gem in the surfing world. Not just for the chaotic waves and picturesque beaches, but for the charming welcome.
The seaside towns have a lot to offer anyone visiting, so if you’re coming for the waves, just know you’ll fall in love with the local banter too.
It's time to suit up...you'll need it!
Check out Northern Ireland’s top surf beaches:
Portrush
Portrush isn't just known for its links golf and great food, it's also the surf capital of Northern Ireland. It's the most consistent spot for decent waves along the Causeway Coast. It' also helpful that the Coastguard is nearby at the Harbour, in case of an emergency. If you're planning a trip to the north coast, you should call in to Andy at Troggs Surf Shop, he knows the best spots and is great craic!
Whiterocks Beach, Portrush
Located just in front of the world-famous Royal Portrush Golf Course, Whiterocks Beach stretches from Curran Strand to Dunluce Castle. This is perhaps one of the most scenic spots to surf in NI, but it's also popular with body boarders, kayakers and even horses. If you're a beginner, there is a fantastic surf school located on the beach, with expert trainers and guides.
Benone Strand, Magilligan
Due to its location, the waves here are generally a little smaller and gentler than anywhere else along the coast. It is one of the longest beaches so surfers can enjoy a bit of more room.
White Park Bay, Ballintoy
Just ten minutes along the Causeway sits White Park Bay. This secluded beach isn't manned by lifeguards, so this one is definitely best suited to experienced surfers. The pristine blue water and sandy shores are inviting but look out for the offshore wind.
Castlerock Beach
If you continue along the coast, you'll reach Castlerock town, another friendly seaside resort. This place is buzzing throughout the summer with families making good use of caravan parks, camping sites and holiday homes here. The ideal time for peak surf conditions is actually the winter, as most of the surf here comes from groundswells, so it's best to surf here around mid-tide.
Runkerry/Bushfoot Beach, Portballintrae
This beach is hidden along the Causeway coast, you can access it via a footpath from the main car park in Portballintrae, before crossing the 'Three Quarter' Footbridge. It's popular with surfers for its strong rip currents and shelving, there is no Lifeguard Service here so you must be careful - experienced surfers only.
Read more:
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