Sligo is very well-known for surfing. People travel from around the globe for a chance to test the waters around the Atlantic Coast.
What makes Sligo so popular for surfing is that it has the most consistent swell of anywhere in Europe. Swell is a word used for the slow and regular movement of the sea in rolling waves that do not break. This is important for a surfer as it gives them the ideal conditions for practising their sport.
Strandhill
Strandhill
An early morning surfer takes to the waves of the Atlantic in Strandhill, County Sligo.
Image courtesy of The Irish TimesStrandhill
Image courtesy of The Irish Times
Image courtesy of The Irish Times
Strandhill
An early morning surfer takes to the waves of the Atlantic in Strandhill, County Sligo.
Image courtesy of The Irish TimesAlthough there are plenty of places in Sligo for surfing, like Enniscrone, Easkey and Streedagh, the beach at Strandhill is probably the most popular spot. This is because Strandhill is a long beach capable of holding huge waves in the right conditions.
Typically Strandhill works best when the tide is on the way in from mid to high tide. At high tide however, it can be quite dangerous to surf there because of the rebounds of the waves against the promenade.
Surfing tips
There are many little tips to take into account when starting surfing. The most important ones are to share the sea; don't endanger others; always think about safety, be polite; don't surf beyond your ability and most importantly never surf on your own.