Donegal Bay
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Positives
- Uncrowded reefbreaks
- Powerful swells
- Predominant offshores
- Cool people
Negatives
- Rainy climate and cold water
- Windy conditions
- Big tidal ranges
- Fairly pricey
Donegal Bay surf travel guide
NW Ireland (Eire) is one of the most consistent surf destinations in Europe and Donegal Bay has become the epicentre of surfing in Ireland, since it is an area blessed with several world-class waves. The prevalent airflow from the SW and a mainly north-facing aspect, open to most Atlantic swells, means the low-lying coastline that passes through Counties Donegal, Leitrim, Sligo and Mayo is a true surfer’s paradise. Perfect surf geology shapes triangulated reefs, rivermouth sandbars and assorted beachbreaks, evenly distributed around the bay. Bundoran is a regular international competition venue for both small and big waves. Further west, Easkey’s consistent limestone reefbreaks are as popular as ever with travelling surfers.
Surf spots in Donegal Bay
Research the 19 surf breaks in Donegal Bay and discover what spots suit the current conditions.
Break lowdown
We’ve collated the wave data giving you a unique insight into the 19 breaks in Donegal Bay.
When to go
Surf and weather statistics to help plan your surf trip to Donegal Bay
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Travel Information
General
- Current Time
- Tourists
- 10,926,000
- Population
- 6,786,000
- Tourist Info
- Tourist Info
Security
Health
Money
- Currency
- European euro (EUR)
- Exchange rate
- $1 = 1 Euro European euro (EUR)
Cost of living
Communication
- Dialing in
- +Republic 353 - North 44
- Dialing out
- Republic 00 - North 00
- Emergencies
- 112
- Language
- English, Irish (Gaelic)
Electricity
- Plug Type
- g
Visas
The Republic of Ireland is part of the EU free travel area but in principle the north is not. Post Brexit has added to the confusion and negotiations continue, but the border between the two remains open and free for travel. Check for any latest news. Many non EU member countries can visit visa free for up to 90 days
Getting There
Many UK airports have flights to Knock with Ryanair, an hours drive from Easkey and 1.5hrs to Bundoran. Driving from Dublin to Bundoran takes 2.5hrs, bus takes 4.5hrs and the train 6hrs with a bus ride at either end. Drive Belfast to Bundoran in 2hrs or 4hrs by bus.
Getting Around
Driving from Bundoran to Easkey takes 1hr or by bus 2.5hrs.
Accommodation
Ireland is not a budget destination. B&B’s will cost at least $50/dble. AirBnB can be better value. Bundoran Surf Co and TurfnSurf have lodges. There are campsites everywhere, but Ireland’s wet climate can make this a miserable experience.
Activities
Western Ireland is a stunning patchwork of lonely valleys, lakes and low mountains, scattered with cottages and old castles. Irish culture centres around the pub, where drinking Guinness and listening to traditional music can be shared by all. Check out the Surfer’s Bar in Rossnowlagh, Maddens Bridge Bar in Bundoran and the McGowan’s in Easkey to name just a few.
Hazards & hassles
You won’t be leaving Ireland with a suntan, and if you don’t like wind and rain, don’t go. Many of the reefbreaks are treacherous. No lifeguards at most surf spots. Tidal ranges are large. Ireland is a very welcoming land and hassles in the water are rare if you stick to the main spots. Travel in small groups, respect the locals by waiting your turn and smile.
Handy Hints
There are well-stocked surf shops/schools in Bundoran (Surfworld, Bundoran Surf Co), Rossnowlagh (Fin McCool) and Strandhill schools (Surf Ireland, Strandhill) or 7th Wave in Enniscrone.
Due to global pandemic, Visas, Getting There, Getting Around or Accommodation information and pricing may have changed. Always check Government Travel Advice before travelling.