Surfing in Portrush

 

Surfing in Portrush

If you head up to Northern Ireland's stunning north coast, you'll find Portrush, an absolute gem of a surf destination. Known for its vibrant surf scene, beautiful beaches, and dramatic coastal views, Portrush is a fantastic surf spot that deserves a place on any surfer's map.

In this post, we’ll dive into what makes Portrush a must visit surf location, explore the top surf spots, and give you all the insider tips to make the most of your surfing adventure.

Why Surf Portrush?

Located in County Antrim, Portrush is a small seaside town that sits along the famous Causeway Coast. Its proximity to the open Atlantic Ocean means that Portrush benefits from a consistent swell, making it a reliable surf destination year-round. Whether you’re looking for mellow waves to cruise on or more challenging conditions, Portrush has waves for all levels of surfers.

The town is surrounded by beautiful scenery, including the iconic Giant's Causeway and dramatic cliffs, giving your surf sessions an amazing backdrop. Portrush is also home to a welcoming surf community, surf schools, and a lively town centre where you can enjoy the best of Northern Irish hospitality.

Portrush is my personal favourite spot in all of Ireland although that may be slightly biased as its my local. The combination of great waves and beautiful scenery make it a one of a kind experience

The Best Surf Spots in Portrush

Portrush offers a variety of surf spots that cater to surfers of all abilities. Let’s take a closer look at the town’s main beaches and what you can expect at each.

East Strand Beach

East Strand Beach is Portrush’s main surf spot and the heart of the local surf scene. Stretching for miles, this sandy beach is exposed to the full force of the Atlantic, which means it picks up plenty of swell. The waves at East Strand are consistent and well-suited to surfers of all levels. The waves here are generally smaller and more beginner-friendly, making it a great spot for those new to the sport. East Strand is a picturesque beach with calm, clean waves, ideal for those looking to practice their skills in a less crowded environment.

Because East Strand is more protected, it tends to work well on larger days when West Strand might be too intense for some surfers. It’s an excellent spot to check out if you’re looking for more relaxed, easy-going surf sessions and it’s great for beginners, local surf schools operate here year-round, offering lessons and board rentals.

West Strand Beach

Just a short walk from the town centre, West Strand Beach offers a higher octane surfing experience compared to East Strand. On smaller days, beginners can enjoy fun, manageable waves, while on bigger days, West Strand can deliver punchy, fast rides for more experienced surfers.

 West Strand works best on an incoming tide, with offshore winds from the southeast or south. During the autumn and winter months, this beach really comes alive with powerful swells, making it a great spot for intermediate and advanced surfers. But don’t worry, on calmer days, it’s perfect for beginners

Whiterocks Beach

Whiterocks Beach is a short drive from Portrush and offers stunning views of limestone cliffs and rock formations. As its name suggests, the white cliffs that line this beach provide a dramatic setting for a day of surfing. Whiterocks is known for its long, clean waves that break both left and right, making it suitable for a wide range of surfers.

The waves here are typically larger than those at the more sheltered East Strand, as well as bigger than West Strand, making Whiterocks a popular spot for advanced surfers. It’s also a fantastic place to escape the crowds of Portrush on busier days.

When to Surf Portrush

Portrush, like much of the Irish coastline, offers surfable conditions year-round. However, the best waves are typically found in the autumn and winter months, from September through March. During this time, the Atlantic swell is more consistent, and you’re more likely to catch bigger waves. The water can be chilly, with temperatures ranging from 8°C in winter to 15°C in summer, so a good wetsuit is essential, ideally a 5/4mm for winter and a 3/2mm for the warmer months.

The summer months, while less consistent in terms of waves, are perfect for beginners or those looking for a more relaxed surf experience. You can expect smaller, more manageable waves, which are ideal for learning or improving your technique.

The Surf Scene and Community

One of the best things about surfing in Portrush is the friendly and welcoming surf community. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, you’ll find that the Portrush surf scene is open and inclusive. Local surf schools such as Alive Surf School and Troggs Surf School offer lessons, board rentals, and valuable local knowledge about the best conditions for surfing the area.

Portrush has a long-standing surf culture, and the town regularly hosts surf competitions and events. If you’re lucky enough to be in town during one of these events, it’s a great opportunity to witness some of the region’s top surfers in action and soak up the vibrant surf atmosphere.

Beyond the Waves: What to Do in Portrush

While surfing may be the main draw for many visitors, Portrush offers plenty of other activities to keep you entertained when you're not in the water. The town is part of the iconic Causeway Coastal Route, so you can easily explore nearby attractions like the Giant's Causeway, Dunluce Castle, and Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge. If you're a golf fan, you can even tee off at the world-famous Royal Portrush Golf Club, which has hosted the Open Championship.

Portrush also has a lively town centre with great pubs, restaurants, and cafes where you can refuel after a day of surfing. Be sure to try some local fish and chips or grab a pint at one of the town’s cosy pubs to round off your day.

Final Thoughts: Why Portrush is a Must-Visit Surf Spot

Portrush is a surf destination that truly has it all, consistent waves, a variety of surf spots for all levels, and breathtaking scenery that makes every surf session unforgettable. Whether you’re a beginner catching your first waves at East Strand or an experienced surfer tackling the bigger swells at Whiterocks, Portrush offers something for everyone.

Add to that the charm of a seaside town filled with friendly locals, surf schools, and exciting attractions, and you’ve got the perfect spot for your next surf adventure. So grab your board, head to the north coast, and discover why Portrush is one of Northern Ireland’s top surf destinations!