Surf

“Do they really surf in Ireland??”

That’s the question we get asked most here at Finn McCool’s. Considering Ireland has some of the most exposed coastline in Europe, a massive fetch that stretches uninterrupted all the way across to America and a craggy coastline littered with reef and beach breaks we always find it such a bizarre question. OF COURSE they surf in Ireland. In fact its often about finding somewhere small enough to surf as we are bombarded by one huge swell after another.

The Dingle Peninsula in west Kerry is a surfer’s paradise and the perfect spot for a surf holiday. With three different coastlines all within half an hour of each other, the Dingle Peninsula has surf in almost all weather conditions.

We have breaks to suit every standard of surfer too, from the world class reef at Inch to the modest but plentiful beach breaks on Brandon Bay – you’ll find a wave to suit your style. Over the next few pages we’ll talk you through some of the more popular and easily accessed spots on the peninsula, but there are also many more hidden gems to be found for the more adventurous of you. Enjoy the search…

When to come…
The autumn is your best bet for consistent waves. The major swells start to push in from mid-September onwards. In the winter months the water temperature can take a dive, but the north swells start firing. In spring the swells are more spread out but we usually still have decent waves up to around Easter and beyond. In the summer the swells are at their lightest and the prevailing southwesterly winds often make for messy conditions that are perfect for beginners.