Strandhill
Strandhill, Connacht (County Sligo), Ireland
Sports: Surfing
Best time to go: March–May, September–November
Strandhill is a village on the Coolera peninsula, about 8 km west of Sligo town, beneath the hill of Knocknarea. Its long, west-facing beach is backed by dunes and has beach-break peaks over sand, with a rocky reef near the village end that works on bigger swells. Because it faces straight into the Atlantic it picks up plenty of swell, and it is one of the busiest learner surf spots on the west coast.
The best months are usually spring and autumn, when moderate Atlantic swells meet easterly winds that blow offshore; winter is often too big and stormy, and summer is smaller but good for learning. Strong currents and rips run along the beach, and swimming is not considered safe here, so surf near others and within your ability. The water is cold, about 9–11 °C in winter and around 15 °C in late summer, so a 5/4 mm wetsuit with boots is usual most of the year. Check local rules and lifeguard information before going in.
Spots near Strandhill
- Easkey (22 km)
- Mullaghmore (24 km)
- Bundoran (32 km)
- Lahinch (156 km)
- Tiree – Balevullin (272 km)
- Rhosneigr (293 km)