Best surfing spots in Ireland
The best surfing spots in Ireland over the whole year.
Updated November 2026 · weather data 2022–2026
In short
- Best waves in Ireland: January–February, December (around 2.4 m, water 9°C, 6/5 wetsuit, hood, boots and gloves).
- Smaller waves and the warmest water, good for beginners: July–August (around 1.2 m, water 17°C, 4/3 wetsuit).
- Top picks: Easkey, Lahinch & Mullaghmore.
- For beginners: Lahinch, Strandhill & Bundoran.
The best surfing spots in Ireland, ranked by wave height through the year, warm water and the number of good months, from years of weather data. Wave height: average daily maximum.
Month by month in Ireland
| Month | Waves | Water | Wetsuit | Air |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| JanuaryJan | 2.3 m | 8°C | 6/5 wetsuit, hood, boots and gloves | 8°C |
| FebruaryFeb | 2.5 m | 8°C | 6/5 wetsuit, hood, boots and gloves | 9°C |
| MarchMar | 2 m | 9°C | 6/5 wetsuit, hood, boots and gloves | 11°C |
| AprilApr | 1.4 m | 10°C | 5/4 wetsuit, hood, boots and gloves | 13°C |
| MayMay | 1.3 m | 13°C | 5/4 wetsuit and boots | 15°C |
| JuneJun | 1.3 m | 15°C | 5/4 wetsuit and boots | 17°C |
| JulyJul | 1.1 m | 17°C | 4/3 wetsuit | 18°C |
| AugustAug | 1.3 m | 17°C | 4/3 wetsuit | 18°C |
| SeptemberSep | 1.5 m | 16°C | 4/3 wetsuit | 16°C |
| OctoberOct | 1.8 m | 14°C | 5/4 wetsuit and boots | 14°C |
| NovemberNov | 2 m | 12°C | 5/4 wetsuit, hood, boots and gloves | 11°C |
| DecemberDec | 2.3 m | 10°C | 5/4 wetsuit, hood, boots and gloves | 9°C |
Averages of the 5 spots on this page. Best months highlighted. Air: average daytime high.
Questions
When is the best time for surfing in Ireland?
Best waves in Ireland: January–February, December (around 2.4 m, water 9°C, 6/5 wetsuit, hood, boots and gloves). Smaller waves and the warmest water, good for beginners: July–August (around 1.2 m, water 17°C, 4/3 wetsuit).
What wetsuit do I need in Ireland?
It depends on the month: about 17°C water in August (4/3 wetsuit) and about 8°C in February (6/5 wetsuit, hood, boots and gloves).
Is Ireland good for beginners?
Yes, these spots suit beginners: Lahinch, Strandhill & Bundoran.
Which airport is closest?
Ireland West Airport Knock (NOC), 43 km from Easkey; Shannon Airport (SNN), 38 km from Lahinch; Donegal Airport (CFN), 64 km from Mullaghmore.