This trip was hosted. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.
Surfing is more than a sport: it’s a spiritual experience. Those of us who’ve felt the rush of paddling into a wave know that it calms the body and quiets the mind. We wait, watching waves forming on the horizon behind us. When the time is right, we paddle, the nose of the board facing forward. We catch the wave, pop up, and ride it out. The resulting feeling is impossible to replicate.
Over the past decade, I’ve surfed in some of the best spots in the world including the United States, Mexico, and Costa Rica. I was surprised to find that one of the best surf destinations was Northern Ireland, specifically Benone Beach.
Ireland Has Pristine Beginner-Friendly Beaches

Surfing Benone Beach isn’t just fun, it’s also safe, accessible, and less intimidating than some surf spots. The beach’s sandy bottom and easy-going waves make it an ideal destination for those who are learning to pop up for the first time or hone their skills. I was amazed by the consistency of the sets.
The beaches are also great because they:
- Are not overcrowded
- Give You an Intimate Look at the Country
- The Atlantic Swells are Great for Established Surfers
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It’s Not Overcrowded

Usually when surf destinations are well known, there are crowds to match the grandiosity of the place. Surfing in places like California or Europe can feel like a competition where you have to battle it out for a wave.
Empty surf beaches allow you to:
- Spread out
- Bypass the aggressive surf culture
- Learn in peace
In my experience, Benone Beach was a refreshing escape from this reality. Ours was the only surf party on the beach, and the massive coastline would’ve accommodated many more surfers without crimping our style. The lack of commercialized surf tourism made for a more laid-back, easy going experience.
The Atlantic Swells are Great for Established Surfers
While Benone Beach is an ideal surf spot for beginners, nearby locations like the Downhill Strand offer added challenges for intermediate and advanced surfers. These areas are known to pick up swells from the Atlantic, which can result in much bigger and more challenging waves. What’s more is that the region is also home to a number of phenomenal surf schools, which can accommodate everything from a new surfer to an advanced surfer who’s looking for coaching and general support.
Should you join a surf school?

Many surfers begin their athletic journey by watching other athletes and winging it in the water. While teaching yourself how to surf is one option, it can also be really helpful to work with a surf school to nail down the fundamentals of surfing.
There are a number of reasons why you might want to join a surf school:
- For a little bit of expertise
- Inside tips on the local beaches
- Included gear rentals
While I’ve been inconsistently surfing for years, I still jumped at the opportunity to work with Long Line Surf to help to learn about the nuances of Benone Beach, and to work with an instructor who could give me pointers surrounding my technique.
Another benefit of working with a surf school is that most classes will come with gear rentals, so you don’t have to worry about finding a board, wetsuit or booties. You also won’t have to deal with the gear when you’re done for the day.
About the Benone Beach Surf Breaks

There are a few different breaks along Benone Beach, but the main break is easily the most manageable, consistent, and popular. These waves tend to be long, and slow, which creates a great opportunity for practicing technique and getting comfortable with balancing on a board.
Getting There
Benone Beach is located near Limavady in Londonderry. The beach is a short drive from both Derry City and the Causeway Coast. The closest airport to the area is located in Belfast, which is about an hour and a half by car. There’s also a Derry City Airport, but very few international flights land here. The easiest way to get around the island is by renting a car.
Best time to Go

Ireland’s peak surf season runs from September through November. In September, the average beach temperature in Ireland is about 58-degrees, which means that most surfers will don a wetsuit to stay insulated while they wait for sets. If you’re working with a surf school, there will likely be rental options or a wetsuit option that comes included with the lesson. Advanced surfers prefer the winter season because swells are bigger, but weather and water conditions can be significantly more challenging to manage.
Local Lunch Spots
After a day of surfing, most people work up a pretty significant appetite. Fortunately, there are a number of delicious lunch spots a short drive from the beach. Castlerock is a nearby village that features several cafes and pubs. A casual bite can be found at the Benone Tourist Complex where sandwiches and hot drinks are available. A more traditional Irish experience might take you to the Royal Court Hotel in Portrush where you’ll find seafood, pints, and stews.
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