Home of Guinness, green fields, violent field sports and mental waves, so here’s the lowdown on that big chunk of rock to the west of Wales that stops us from getting proper swell.

Where?

Ireland is an island that forms the western most part of the British Isles, it’s annoying for Welsh and English surfers as it blocks huge amounts of swell that would batter our fair shores. On the other hand it’s just a short flight or ferry ride away and makes for a pleasant break.

What sort of waves?

Ireland pretty much has everything, the North has decent beachies, there are rivermouth sandbars, long points, well shaped reefs and heaving slabs take your pick.

Does it get much swell?

Does it! Anything that gurgles out of the North Atlantic hits somewhere on the Irish coast, the only problem is the speed at which lows move over Ireland means that whilst sizeable, they often lack a good period and are generally accompanied by poor weather conditions.

What about the weather?

There’s a saying in Bundoran, if you can see the mountains it’s going to rain, if you can’t it’s already raining! And that pretty much sums up Ireland. The weather is changeable and often wet but if the sun does poke its head out, enjoy it, quickly!

What else is there to do?

Drink Guinness and that’s about it really. Only joking Ireland has a rich tapestry of cultural and physical delights, the music, the scenery, the hospitality and the food, and of course the Guinness, did I mention that already?

Will I score uncrowded waves?

Not very likely anymore, surfing is booming in Ireland and there are plenty of locals, however it is still possible to find some out of the way spots but a lot of the main ones will be mobbed.

Can I learn to surf there?

You can all over the place; check out the ISA website (www.isasurf.ie) for details of affiliated surf schools but all the main surfing hubs have schools, for example Portrush, Bundoran, Strandhill and Lahinch.

Where can I stay and how is it best to get about?

There is so much accommodation in Ireland, B+Bs, cottages and hotels are everywhere. If you’re in a van you can pretty much camp anywhere, but be respectful otherwise this situation won’t last. You will need wheels to get about, as the conditions change quickly and to get the most out of an Irish surf trip you have to be mobile.

Any Dangers?

The waves aren’t heavy but can pack a bit more of a punch that your average beachie, aquatic wildlife is generally harmless.

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