Ireland/ Sligo/ Mullaghmore Head

Mullaghmore Head Surf Forecast

Big-wave reef break · Co. Sligo · expert surfers only

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About Mullaghmore Head

Mullaghmore Head is a heavy, slabby left-hander breaking over a shallow reef at the northern tip of County Sligo. It rose to international prominence in the early 2000s as one of Europe's premier big-wave arenas and has hosted invitational tow-in sessions ever since - when a clean long-period NW swell stacks up offshore, Mullaghmore can produce some of the largest rideable waves anywhere on the planet.

This is not a recreational spot. On any day worth surfing, the reef demands experience, a calm head, organised safety - usually jet-ski rescue support - and respect for what the Atlantic can do. The viewing point on the headland is one of the best big-wave spectating spots in the world; on the right swell, you'll find photographers, spectators, and a small crew of regulars pushing what's possible.

A few hundred metres south, Mullaghmore Strand is a separate, beginner-friendly beach break. If you came here to surf and you're not sure whether you should be at the Head, you should be at the Strand.

Type
Slab reef · left-hander · big-wave venue
Best swell
NW (280–345°), 2.0–8.0m+
Best wind
SE (offshore), 90–160°
Best tide
Mid · narrow window
Best period
14–22s long-period groundswell
Skill level
Expert only · tow-in on the biggest days
Best season
Oct–Mar · winter Atlantic depressions
Access
Park near Classiebawn / the harbour · watch from the headland

Hazards & Notes

  • Big-wave venue - life-threatening conditions when the swell is on. Do not paddle out without experience, safety crew and the skill to back it up.
    • Shallow reef - rocks at low water and on inside sections
    • Strong currents and sweeping rips on bigger swells
    • Heavy hold-downs · jet-ski rescue typically organised on big days
    • Always check with locals before paddling out - Mullaghmore is not a self-discovery spot

    14-Day Forecast

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