Our Favourite Surf Schools to Catch some Waves!
- Julia Labedz
- Aug 25
- 2 min read
Looking for the best surf schools in Ireland tho catch some waves? From the wild Atlantic waves of Mayo, Clare, and Sligo, here are the top three surf schools guaranteed to get you riding with a smile!
1. SurfMayo – Carrowniskey Strand, Co. Mayo
Located on Carrowniskey Strand at Louisburgh, along the Wild Atlantic Way this beach-break spot offers ideal, consistent beginner waves.
This is Ireland’s first surf school (since 1998), ISA-approved, with over 25 years’ teaching experience. Beginner-friendly camps for kids (7–16) and adult lessons make it ideal for families.
Pricing: While no fixed summer rate is listed online, standard 2‑hour adult lessons in Ireland typically cost around €30 pp and under‑18s around €25 pp . SurfMayo often includes full wetsuit hire.
Overall, this is a gentle beach-break, perfect for first-timers and fun surf sessions in summer!
2. Lahinch Surf School – Lahinch Beach, Co. Clare
Based right on Lahinch promenade, you’ll hit the long sandy beach with both left and right beach-break waves, great for newbies and intermediates.
Under the guidance of John McCarthy, former Irish Surf Champion, they offer small friendly group lessons, emphasizing fun and safe learning.
Pricing: While their site doesn’t list rates, most Clare surf schools charge €30–€45 for a two-hour lesson - always confirm for exact 2025 pricing.
This is a reliable summer beach-break, forgiving and great for catching your first waves.
3. Rebelle Surf (formerly known as Strandhill Surf School) – Strandhill, Co. Sligo
Based at Strandhill’s National Surf Centre on a stunning beach-break coastline. Sligo offers a mix of reef and beach-break waves, suitable for all levels, with world-class spots nearby (like Mullaghmore).
Rated by Condé Nast Traveler’s Top 10 Surf Schools in 2025, this passionate crew provides lessons, camps, women-only sessions, retreats, and families experiences. Their instructors are qualified and safety-focused.
Pricing: Expect a premium service with prices in the range of €45–€60 for a 2‑hour lesson, or package deals for multi-day camps.
This school offers versatile beach-breaks with occasional reef swells - Strandhill caters to beginners yet can challenge intermediates on the right day.
Comparison at a Glance
School | Beach (Wave Type) | Location | Typical Pricing | Highlights |
SurfMayo | Carrowniskey Strand (beach-break) | Louisburgh, Mayo | ~€25–€30 for 2 hr | First Irish surf school; family-friendly |
Lahinch Surf | Lahinch Beach (beach-break) | Lahinch, Clare | ~€30–€45 for 2 hr | ISA-certified, pro coach atmosphere |
Rebelle Surf | Strandhill (beach + reef-break) | Strandhill, Sligo | ~€45–€60 for 2 hr | Award-winning, full surf camp lineup |
Wave Conditions This Summer
Before booking, it's important to assess your own skill level alongside sea conditions.
Mayo (Carrowniskey): Ideal gentle breakers for beginners, with a consistent shuffle of waves during summer.
Clare (Lahinch): Beach-breaks offer soft, manageable waves; right and left peelers are great for learning edge-to-edge turns.
Sligo (Strandhill): Beach-break mains with possibilities of reef and offshore swells, excellent for progression days and great views while surfing.
Book early, summer fills fast!