Tag: Atlantic Ocean
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Surfers Discover Wild Waves On Ireland’s Heavenly West Coast
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.
Photo: Susan Geiger 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.
Photos: Susan Geiger 
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.
Cliffs of Moher 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
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Go To The Edge Of A Cliff To See The Most Breathtaking Views In Ireland
PRESS PLAY TO WATCH THE VIDEO Obrien’s Tower stands at the Cliffs of Moher’s highest point. It’s Ireland’s most popular and dramatic landscape, rising high above the Atlantic Ocean. The cliffs are on Ireland’s west coast in County Clare, along the Wild Atlantic Way, a rugged and majestic coastline trail and driving route.
Obrien’s Tower 
Hag’s Head 
Our visit in early June required wearing our warmest winter-like jackets and gear. The weather here can be windy, cold, and sometimes wet— Irish mist wet. I wore a hat to cover my ears, and dressed in layers, with an insulated rain jacket to stay warm from the biting wind.
A good pair of walking shoes, preferably waterproof, is a must. The ground can be unstable and slippery when wet. Walking along the edge of the cliffs is an exhilarating experience. There are eight miles of walking paths with spectacular scenery. You’ll get plenty of exercise as you go up, over, and down the various slopes and stairways. There is a photo opportunity practically every step along the way. Always have your camera ready.
The cliffs are geological wonders. They were formed more than 320 million years ago. Musicians, artists, poets and storytellers often go to the cliffs for inspiration. Several spots on the hiking trail honor local performers called buskers. They entertain visitors, often for small donations.
Stop at the Visitor Center and learn about the history of the region, the geology of the cliffs, and the wildlife that inhabit the land and ocean. There’s also a cafe, souvenir shop, and restrooms.
For a different perspective, take a boat tour from the quaint town of Doolin. Obrien’s Tower appears so much tinier looking up from the water than it does standing at the top of the cliffs.
The Cliffs of Moher, a journey of wonder, discovery, and a lifetime of memories.
Susan & Steve Geiger
