The next time you're in the region make to pick up a copy of our new surfing brochure which is available in local tourist information offices.
Trail: Doolin Surfing
Location: Co. Clare
Services: Doolin, Co. Clare
Difficulty: Hard
To Suit: Experienced Surfers
Located 20kms from Lahinch, Doolin is a charming small seaside village on the northwest coast of County Clare. Set against the rugged Atlantic Ocean and surrounded by the spectacular bare limestone landscape of the Burren, Doolin is a place of breathtaking beauty.
As well as being renowned for its stunning scenery, Doolin is also a famous surfing area in County Clare, with massive surf crashing in off the Atlantic. In the early and late parts of the year, there's no place better to surf than at the back of Crab Island. Crab Island sits just offshore from Doolin harbour. It offers some protection for the harbour from the Atlantic waves, and has the best surf in the country on the reefs which extend from the south of the island. Crab Island provides an exposed reef break that has reasonably consistent surf and can work at any time of the year.
It is important to note that Crab Island should only be attempted by fit and experienced surfers, as the paddle is much longer than it looks. Also please be aware that the wave arrives out of deep water with little warning and can catch the unwary. Many surfers who are not aware of the nature of this location have been caught "inside" the break with the danger of being washed on to the rocky island. The "rips" here can be very strong when the surf is big. And remember to keep a reserve of energy for the paddle back to the mainland.
Not far from Crab Island is Doolin Point, another great surfing location in County Clare. With reef break waves and relatively consistent surf it’s a great surfing spot. As Doolin point can break very close to jagged rocks it is also only for the experienced.
And there’s much more to savour in this perfect surfing location…Doolin is renowned for its wealth of traditional Irish music, beautiful coastline, historic sites and friendly atmosphere, all of which make it a great place for the perfect surfing trip!
County Clare Road Network - Downloadable Map
Surfing Ireland http://www.irishsurfer.com/
Irish Surfing Association http://www.isasurf.ie/
Head Office, Shannon Town Centre,
Shannon, Co Clare: t: +353 (0)61 361555 f: +353 (0)61 361903
