It's not the first place that comes to mind when you think of riding the waves, but when you consider that the island of Ireland lies in the North Atlantic Ocean, with nothing to stop waves and wind reaching its shores for thousands of miles, it’s not surprising that this is a popular surf destination for those in the know. One of the most popular surf documentaries ever made, Waveriders, follows the attempts of a group of surfers to catch the biggest waves that the Atlatic can throw at them. Although this is an extreme project, Ireland is also a wonderful place for beginners to learn to surf, with all kinds of waves, numerous surf schools and fantastic coastal scenery around the country.

It might not be blessed with the warm waters of California or Australia, but oceanic currents bring water from the Caribbean to Ireland’s shores.This takes the edge of the cold, and a wetsuit is enough to make spending a couple of hours in the water more than bearable. The Irish Sea too, on the east coast of the island, is relatively warm and, with smaller waves, is a great spot for first timers. What’s more, as a relatively unknown destination, you’re guaranteed space in the surf, good service in the schools, and a free table at the pub after a day at the beach here.

Where are the best places to go surfing in Ireland?

• East Coast: The Irish Sea doesn’t have the power to generate big swells year round, but that doesn’t mean that there are no surfable waves here. In fact, there are some perfect spots for beginners all along this coastline. Without leaving Dublin, you can head for Dollymount Strand or Whiterock Beach to catch the waves when the wind blows from the south or east. Another option is Curracloe in county Wexford, a charming sandy beach backed by dunes.

• Southwest Coast: Relatively gentle waves from the Atlantic arrive on the southwest corner of the island of Ireland, making this a good place for beginners. In County Waterford, there are schools in Tramore and Dunmahon, while County Cork boasts an award winning beach on Inchydoney Island, as well as options at Whitegate, Garretstown and Warren Beach near Skibbereen. County Kerry has some of the most breathtaking stretches of coastline in the country, among them the Dingle Peninsula which also happens to be a great surfing destination. Inch Beach is a favourite spot, and Rossbeigh Beach is just across the water. Other options include Ardfert and Maharees.

• Central West Coast: This is where pro surfers come to surf for the perfect wave. The most iconic Irish big wave is Ailleens, named after the cliffs of Aill na Searrach which are part of the beautiful Cliffs of Moher in County Clare. In County Sligo, the Billabong Monster Tow competition is held at Mullaghmore’s Head, where 9 metre high breakers are a common sight. But it’s not just huge waves that are found in this area, there are numerous places where novices can share the waters with more experienced surfers. Kilkee Bay and neighbouring Dough are good examples of these, whereas Fanore is a great initiation beach. Louisburgh and Clogher in County Mayo are other good options, and Strandhill shows the less intense face of the Sligo coast.

• Northwest Coast: Wild waves and beginner’s beaches are found side by side in County Donegal too. The largest wave ever to hit the Irish Coast came in at a towering 19 metres of height here, and the Peak at Bundoran has been called the surf capital of Ireland by some, and has hosted the European Surf Championships. But Rossnowlagh is one the longest established learner’s beaches in the British Isles. Other locations are Dooey and Falcarragh Beach.

What are the options for organising a surfing experience in Ireland?

- To recreate the amazing stunts that the experts pull off, you need to take the first steps in a long, but incredibly rewarding journey. This is a great place to learn to surf, with schools that offer lessons throughout the year on almost every part of the coast. These lessons usually last between 1.5 and 2.5 hours. If it’s your first time, you’ll start on the sand, where your instructor will take you through the basic steps of catching a wave and getting onto the board. Then you go into the waves, where they’ll help you ride your first breaker.

- There are also courses on offer, usually in the summer, which include coaching sessions everyday for a week. They’re most popular among kids, but adults can get involved too, and they’re a fantastic way to turn an interest into a hobby.

- Finally, there’s the option to rent surf equipment. You don’t need much to enjoy the waves - just a board, a wetsuit, maybe gloves or boots in the colder months - and it isn’t hard to find good ones. Bear in mind that this is recommended for surfers who have some experience.

Who can enjoy this activity?

We know that expert surfers really get their thrills on some of the huge waves that the west coast enjoys, but there’s space for plenty of fish in this sea. Surfers of all abilities are welcome to take lessons or courses around the country, from beginners to improvers and even veteran waveriders who want some tips on their technique, or a guide to take them to the biggest breaks. Youngsters can get involved early, 8 or 10 years old is a typical minimum age, but in some of the gentlest waves even 6 year olds can have a go.

On Ireland’s beaches, you can join open lessons and learn alongside other budding surfers, or organise private lessons as an individual or as a group taking advantage of discounts for group bookings. There are women’s only sessions too, where the instructors and participants are all women who are focused on getting the most out of their experience.

Who knew? Is a paradise island when it comes to this sport. Reserve your experience today.