Why Ireland is becoming known as the North Atlantic’s best surf destination

Most people generally associate the Emerald Isle with Guinness and leprechauns, but for surfers the main attraction is the powerful Atlantic Ocean

Ireland’s most famous beverage, and its inhabitants penchant for drinking maybe just a little too much of it, are undoubtedly what puts the island on most people’s radar. After all, what’s not to like about a mug of foaming Guiness, dark and frothy and filling like a roast dinner distilled into liquid form? But while the pubs are indeed merry and the people jolly, it’s the nature – big and brash and up in your face –  that really makes the Emerald Isle stand out.

It’s wild, and windy, and stormy; constantly battered by the might of the roaring North Atlantic, yet still standing strong. Despite the freezing water, or indeed maybe even because of it, it’s becoming one of the most sought-after destinations among those looking to surf truly powerful waves. Spots like Mullaghmore, a monstrous maritime behemoth with a gaping maw waiting to devour the brave or foolhardy, are well known amongst the big wave community for thundering tubes and backbreaking lips.

Silence Of The Shams

Frank Solomon, Daniel Redman & Josh Redman recently spent a month on the North West coast of Ireland exploring potential setups, firing lineups, beautiful countryside & the occasional pub. Meeting up – and hanging out with local “shams” including Conner McGuire, Dylan Stott, Barry Motheshead & Noah Lane definitely helped to keep the good times rolling, both in and out of the water.

There’s another side to Ireland though. Where there are big waves, so too there are mellow fun waves. The coast is riddled with points and reefs, racing tubes and long carveable walls, and miles of perfect beginner beach break. Sure the water might be cold, but that just makes the log fire in the pub even cosier, and the dark beer even more of a treat.

OAG