Stand Up Paddleboarding the Wild Atlantic Way on Ireland's West Coast
Posted: 31 March 2022
The Wild Atlantic Way, 1600 miles (2600 km) in length, is one of the longest defined coastal routes in the world. It winds its way all along the Irish west coast from the Inishowen Peninsula in the north down to the picturesque town of Kinsale, County Cork, in the south.
The Wild Atlantic with its unrestrained and untameable tides and storms has continuously been moulding the west coast of Ireland.
With spectacular views all throughout the Wild Atlantic Way you will find many ASI SUP and Surf schools along the coast. What better way to explore this stretch of diverse landscape than by stand up paddleboarding along the sparkling waters of Ireland or surfing the huge variety of waves.
Occasionally you could also be paddleboarding or surfing alongside seals, dolphins, and whales!
Ref: www.wildatlanticwayonline.com
ASI SUP and Surf Schools on the Wild Atlantic Way
With many ASI Surf & SUP Schools scattered along the Wild Atlantic Way, you can learn how to surf or paddle on the West Coast of Ireland or rent a board and explore all that this incredibly beautiful area has to offer.
Starting at the top of the Wild Atlantic Way is the Inishowen Peninsula where you can find beautiful sandy beaches and incredible waterfalls. Glenevin Waterfall located in Clonmany, County Donegal has picnic areas blended into the natural landscape making it the perfect stop for lunch.
Travel down from the Inishowen Peninsula and you will come to Donegal Bay, this section of the Wild Atlantic Way down to Mayo is known as Surfers’ Paradise due to its immense waves. Big wave surfers head to Mullaghmore in Sligo, where massive sets of 50ft waves barrel just off the coast.
In Sligo you can find ASI SUP school Sligo Bay SUP. Sligo is a popular destination to learn to Stand Up Paddleboard with it’s beautiful estuaries and tranquil inland lakes. It’s also a great location for SUP Tours with its picturesque lakes encased by woodlands and dramatic mountain views as well as historic landmarks such as Parke’s Castle. Situated on Lough Gill, this restored castle was once the home of English planter Robert Parke.
Continuing down from Sligo Bay you will come to Harbour SUP and Sail located at both Enniscrone, Sligo and Ballina, Mayo. Another ideal location to learn to Stand Up Paddleboard with its calm waters protected from the wind and amazing views of the Forest Park. If you head to the nearby Beach you can find crystal clear waters and a variety of wildlife including seals and dolphins.
Ref: Harbour SUP and Sail
Also located in County Mayo is Simply SUP based in Knockmore, Gortnor Abbey and River Moy. This range of paddling locations offers you a variety of conditions including coastal and inland waterways with flat water paddling taking you past beautiful countryside and historic sites like Errew Abbey. The Nephin mountain range creates the most beautiful imposing backdrops to the lake, with little islands to paddle to there is plenty to explore here. The river Moy is a beautiful tree lined river bustling with wildlife. As you paddle up the river, the Ox Mountains start to become visible on one side and Nephin on the other, making it a stunning location to paddle.
As you make your way down through Mayo you will come to Mayo Adventure Experience who operate out of an urban lake, a purpose developed amenity for outdoor activity that leads to the Suir river which flows through the town and is ideal for stand up paddleboarding. Steeped in history around the lake shore you will find a Ring Fort (medieval dwelling) and the ruins of De Burca Castle.
Wildlife here includes Mute swans, Mallard Ducks and occasionally the local otter will make an appearance rubbing his belly.
Your final ASI School stop in Mayo is Summer SUP School who can be found at Old Head Beach, Louisburgh – a unique location due to its east facing beaches on the Wild Atlantic Way. It is an area of outstanding views to Croagh Patrick and Clew Bay. With a combination of crystal clear water, white sandy beaches and a mild microclimate, it is the ideal place for stand up paddleboarding. Get a unique view of the Wild Atlantic Way and enjoy occasional visits from seals, dolphins and whales as well as plenty of birdlife, including tits, spotted flycatchers and chiffchaffs.
Ref: Summer SUP School
Heading much further down the Wild Atlantic Way to Waterville you can visit Sea Synergy Marine Awareness & Activity Centre. Sea Synergy is a specialised marine awareness centre offering a variety of activities, workshops and adventures to all ages. Their marine experiences allow people to experience the Skellig Coast’s rich local heritage and environment.
SUP lessons and tours run from the stunning Lough Currane river, with its breath-taking scenery and calm tranquil conditions. The river is steeped in history and Irish folklore and is known as the shortest river in Ireland. You can spot water lilies, rabbits, hares, a variety of birdlife, dragon flies, salmon and sea trout here.
Once you have travelled through County Kerry you will enter County Cork where you will find SurfnSUP at The Warren Beach, Rosscarbery. Specialising in Surf lessons for all levels, SurfnSUP is the perfect stop to catch your first wave or for the more experienced surfer to try a new location and improve your skills.
Travel a little further along and you will find Inchydoney Surf School situated on the pristine blue flag sandy beach of Inchydoney. One of Ireland's most picturesque beaches with light-coloured sand backed by dunes and gently undulating countryside.
It has ideal conditions for beginners and intermediate surfers, as well as excellent peaks for the more advanced surfer. Another great location to spot wildlife - humpback whales have been spotted regularly off the coast of Inchydoney.
Ref: Inchydoney Surf School
Book your next paddleboarding or surfing adventure in the Wild Atlantic Way by contacting an ASI School here.
More info about the Wild Atlantic Way
