Ireland/ Donegal/ Rossnowlagh

Rossnowlagh Surf Forecast

Beach break · Co. Donegal · Donegal Bay · home of Ireland's oldest surf club

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About Rossnowlagh

Rossnowlagh is a long, sandy west-facing beach on the south Donegal coast, tucked into Donegal Bay. It's one of the most forgiving waves in the country - mellow, slow-breaking peaks shift up and down a 3 km strand, and the wave rarely turns nasty. That makes it a regular pick for beginners, families and intermediates looking for a low-stress session.

The Rossnowlagh Surf Club, founded in the late 1960s, sits right on the beach and is widely credited as Ireland's first surf club. The annual Intercounties event has been held here for decades. Cars are typically allowed onto the sand at lower tides - check the conditions before you drive on.

Type
Beach break · long, mellow peaks
Best swell
W–NW (255–320°), 0.6–2.5m
Best wind
E (offshore), 70–130°
Best tide
Forgiving at most tides
Best period
9–15s
Skill level
Beginner-friendly · all levels
Best season
Sep–Apr · summer works too
Parking
Beach access; drive-on at low tide (check conditions)

Hazards & Notes

  • Soft, sandy bottom - gentle by Irish standards but still cold water
  • Watch for swimmers and bodyboarders in summer
  • If driving on the beach, mind the tide - vehicles do get stuck
  • Bigger NW swells can produce surprisingly heavy closeouts

14-Day Forecast

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Other Donegal Spots

All conditions and 14-day forecast for every Donegal break: view the full Donegal page →