When most people think of surfing, Ireland probably isn’t the first place that comes to mind. But along Clare’s Atlantic coast, rolling waves crash onto wide sandy beaches, drawing surfers from around the world.

From the lively breaks at Lahinch to the wildest waves that draw pros from across the world, Clare has become one of Ireland’s top spots to grab a board and ride the Wild Atlantic waves.

This article is based on podcast episode 72 featuring Ben Bennett, owner of Ben's Surf Clinic in Lahinch, County Clare.
Use the player below to listen or scroll to continue reading the article and get resource links.

Recorded live at Randaddy's on the promenade in Lahinch, on the west coast of Ireland! As I was recording this with Ben we were watching people surf the January waves!

Water temperatures in Ireland are about 16°C (60°F) in the summer, and surfers would normally still wear a light wet suit. On the nicest days surfers will wear a board short or swimsuit.

Winter water temperatures are about 7°C or 8°C (46°F).

It's actually the air temperature that is the problem. The windchill factor makes it feel much colder.

Ben's Surf Clinic has been on the promenade in Lahinch for 14 years.

Lahinch has great learner waves as well as advanced waves.

Ben's Surf Clinic was the first hardboard surf school in Ireland.

Aileen's Wave (video) off the Cliffs of Moher in County Clare. It has been described as the ‘perfect wave' and can be 35-40 feet.

Riley's Wave (video) south of Lahinch, also in County Clare. It doesn't break as big, but is a powerful, barreling wave.

Ben's Surf Clinic shares local surf conditions daily on the website, Instagram, and Facebook.

See how much there is to do in west Clare and the Burren!

Ben's Surf Clinic offers lessons for those just beginning to more advanced surfers.

Beginners will learn to manage their board, enter the water correctly, and the proper way to lie on the board to catch a wave.

Lessons are 2 hours in the water. All equipment is included, and groups are small, no more than 6 people.

Ben's Surf Clinic is the only surf school in Lahinch with hot showers available after your lesson.

If you are an experienced surfer explore the coastline from Sligo town to Bundoran for a vast range of breaks.

Find secret beaches near Clifden, County Galway.

Explore from Leenane, County Galway to Louisburgh, County Mayo for a stunning drive. Be sure to visit The Lost Valley.

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