Bundoran Surf Guide
Surf spot guide
Ideal Surf Conditions
Swell Direction
SW-NW
Wind
E- S and SE is best but can handle SW trades
Surf Height
Chest high to double overhead plus.
Tide
Low to mid unless big, then a high tide can be good.
Bundoran Surf Guide
As the prevalence of big and scary waves grows in the media, The Peak is no longer Ireland's most famous wave. The reef is a horseshoe peak, with a long, left, wall that has hollow sections and a shorter, bowling right. Under double-overhead, it really needs a low tide to show its true, fairly perfect form; once it gets big, it'll start to break through all tides. When its giant, the left shuts down, but the right stays rideable with proximity to a deep channel. Paddle out across the bay when its big.
Ability Level
Intermediate - Advanced
Suits all skill levels except beginners.
Local Vibe
Doable
It's a super tight takeoff zone, and a small town. Manners and smiles will serve you well.
Crowd Factor
Heavy
The Peak used to be the most famous wave in Ireland and it still is the most consistent as it handles prevailing SW quite well. its right in town and easy access so its one of the most crowded waves in Ireland. Has been for awhile. Some days rival a good wave in California for surfer density.
Spot Rating
Perfect
One of the funnest performance waves in the world. Rivals Trestles or for quality. Great for turns, progressive maneuvers, and the occasional barrel.
Shoulder Burn
Medium
Paddle outs can be long when its big, from either side. Long paddle backs and lots of water moving as it gets bigger.
Water Quality
Fair
Better than it used to be, but still not great. Outflow upgrade completed in 2018 brings the system up to a standard they had in the 80's. Not great. But at least its mostly treated sewage released during rain events now. Still avoid after heavy rains, especially the right on the inside.
Hazards
Typical reef hazards, sharp parts, trenches, especially inside the right, and some surprisingly long hold-downs.
Bring Your
Shortboard, Bodyboard
Access
Access front of town by walking across the reef (carefully, its some of the world's only live temperate coral, foot traffic damages it) or paddle across the bay from the harbour when its big.
Bottom
Reef with channels. Some dangerous rocks to avoid inside the right.
Best Season
Best in Autumn, winter, spring but breaks all year.
Do you have local knowledge about Bundoran?
If you have any insights or information to add to this spot guide, drop us a note at [email protected]