Sligo Surf Experience surf school was established in 2018 by Strandhill native and Irish surfing pioneer Seamus Mc Goldrick. Seamus invites you to his surf school in Strandhill to learn to surf at Ireland’s best surfing beach. Meet the best local and international surf instructors and learn all you need to know about surfing and Sligo.
Their most popular surf experience is a fun and exciting group surf lesson. They also offer popular bodyboarding experiences and surf camps.
Sligo Surf Experience’s expert instructors will patiently show you how to stand on your surfboard on the beach in three easy steps before guiding you into the water to practice the skills you have learned. Surfing is sure to put a smile on your face and your surf instructor will give you lots of helpful tips and encouragement.
Sligo Surf Experience is located in Failte Ireland’s National Surf Centre on the Shore Road, Strandhill opposite the Strand Bar. Their meet-up point is the yellow Sligo Surf Experience van at the back of the centre. You can’t miss them.
There is free parking and all necessary surfing equipment is included in the price. All you need to bring is swimming gear and a towel. You can store your personal belongings with them while you are surfing.
Sligo Surf Experience is open all year round except for January and February. During peak season in July and August they offer two to three group lessons per day seven days per week. They also run regular surfing classes in off-peak and winter season.
They offer a high-quality service with limited spaces so advanced booking is recommended. All surfing classes are subject to weather and surf conditions. If your surfing class is cancelled due to unfavourable surfing conditions, you will be entitled to a full refund.
What you will experience
Upon arrival, there will be a quick meet and greet with surf school owner Seamus Mc Goldrick. After you sign in for your surf lesson you will get changed into a super warm Tiki wetsuit to fit your size. Then you will be guided to Strandhill beach. You will breathe in the fresh Atlantic sea air, feel the wind on your face and hear the crash of the waves as you step off the edge of Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way as you experience the thrill of catching your first wave.
More info…
The normal surf lessons times are 9 am, 10.45 am and 12.30 pm (subject to change – check website for surf lessons schedule)
Their five day summer camps run each week in June, July and August for U16s, teens and adults
All surf camps are personally supervised by Sligo Surf Experience head coach Seamus McGoldrick.
The Ocean Warrior camp includes an Ocean Warrior surf booking, surfing and bodyboarding, beach games, environmental education, water safety and ocean awareness.
- Admission fees: Paid lessons
- Open: Year-round except January and February
- Suitable for younger children: Yes but contact directly for more info
- Indoor facilities: Yes – warm showers and modern changing facilities in the National Surf Centre in Strandhill
- Gift shop: Available in Strandhill
- Dining/refreshments: Plenty of options in Strandhill
- Toilets: Available in National Surf Centre in Strandhill
- Groups: Groups are welcome with prior booking.
- Accessibility: Contact directly for info
- Parking: Free car park and free coach parking in Strandhill
About Strandhill
Strandhill is a remarkable village that boasts world class surf condition, a world class links golf course, a beautiful beach, stunning landscape and gorgeous cafes, bars and restaurants. It is home to the National Surf Centre where you can enjoy a hot shower, clean changing facilities and book surf lessons. They have a fabulous room available for hire that is ideal for corporate groups with a stunning sea view.
It’s name in Irish is An Leathros which loosely translates as ‘The half promontory’ and it is just a short distance from Sligo town. You can hop on the S2 bus which connects it with Sligo town and on to Rosses Point village. Sligo Airport is based here along with remote working hubs and festivals and events regularly held throughout the year.
This is a fantastic coastal seaside location and always popular with families. Please note that swimming is forbidden on Strandhill beach due to the extremely dangerous rip tides.
Location
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