Ireland/ Clare/ Aileen's

Aileen's Surf Forecast

Big-wave reef · Co. Clare · under the Cliffs of Moher · experts only

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About Aileen's

Aileen's is a world-class big-wave left-hand reef breaking in deep water directly under the Cliffs of Moher, off the Clare coast. It is one of the most photographed big-wave spots in Europe and one of the heaviest waves in Ireland - a steep, fast wall that can hold serious size when a clean long-period W swell stacks up across the Atlantic.

The wave is not paddleable from shore. Access is by boat or jet-ski from Doolin, a short trip up the coast. It was first surfed in the early 2000s by a small crew of locals and visiting big-wave surfers, and has hosted big-wave invitationals ever since.

Compared with Mullaghmore Head, Aileen's breaks in deeper water and produces a longer wall - less slabby, more open-face. Still completely out of reach for anyone without big-wave experience, jet-ski safety and the skill to back it up.

Type
Deep-water reef · big-wave left-hander
Best swell
W (230–290°), 2.5–10m+
Best wind
E–NE (offshore), 50–120°
Best tide
Mid · narrow window
Best period
14–22s long-period groundswell
Skill level
Expert only · big-wave experience required
Best season
Oct–Mar · winter Atlantic depressions
Access
Boat or jet-ski from Doolin · no land access

Hazards & Notes

  • Big-wave venue under sheer cliffs - life-threatening conditions when on. Boat / jet-ski safety is non-negotiable. Do not attempt without experience and a safety crew.
    • Boat access only - no paddle-in from shore is realistic
    • Reef is in deep water but the wave is fast and heavy
    • Cliff face directly behind the lineup - currents push you toward it
    • Cold North Atlantic water · winter conditions are brutal
    • If you have to ask whether you should be out here, you should not be

    14-Day Forecast

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