When you think of Ireland, your mind conjures images of sweeping green meadows, lush rain forests, and stark towering cliffs. You can now add surfing, just like when you think of Hawaii and California, but minus the palm trees and sun-drenched beaches.
On a stopover in the small coastal town of Lahinch in County Clare, the last thing I expected was seeing so many wet-suited humans with surf boards, especially on a cold, rainy, and utterly dreary summer beach day.
Lahinch is on Ireland’s west coast. It’s in the region known as the Wild Atlantic Way, home of whipping winds and big surf. Lahinch is famous for golf, but over the years has evolved into a surfing village. The beachfront promenade is a collection of surf and apparel shops, surf schools, guitar-picking buskers, and food vendors unleashing the aroma of deep-fried delights into the air. California surfers nosh on fish tacos; in Ireland, it’s fish-n-chips.
The mile-wide strand of beach attracts surfers of all ages and skill levels. The relatively tame waters here are especially welcoming for beginners. Lahinch also has the coveted Blue Flag designation, Ireland’s top environmental award for clean beaches and water. It’s why Lahinch is a popular resort destination, with highly-rated hotels and boutique shopping.
Just a short drive from Lahinch are the Cliffs of Moher, one of Ireland’s dramatic and most visited natural wonders. The cliffs also lure fearless surfers to an area called the Aileens. Large ocean swells create waves ranging from 10 feet to over 30 feet high. Only the best, most experienced surfers are up to the challenge of the Aileens.
There are over 50,000 surfers in Ireland today, and more are arriving here from around the world now that the secret is out.
Press Play For A Video Tour Of Lahinch Beach
