The Surf Window

Fanore

Clare, Ireland

Beach breakIntermediate

A remote, wild beach at the foot of the Burren in County Clare, Fanore is a striking grey-limestone landscape where the Burren's ancient rock meets the Atlantic in a powerful, characterful beach break setting.

Typical Conditions

The Surf Window

Swell Window

N
OptimalW (270°)
WindowSSW–NNW (210°–330°)

Wind

E

Offshore

Tide

mid tide

LowMidHigh

Season

October–November

JFMAMJJASOND

The Wave

Type

Both

Bottom

Sand and some gravel

Shape

Variable beach break, exposed to Atlantic groundswells with genuine power on solid NW swells

Length

30–80m

Skill Level

  • •Who it's for: Intermediate
  • •Why: The beach is exposed and the Atlantic swell has real punch, intermediate ocean awareness required.

Hazards

  • •Strong rip currents
  • •Cold water (9–13°C)
  • •Remote location, limited facilities and rescue infrastructure
  • •Gravel/pebble sections mixed with sand

Local Tips

  • •The Burren limestone landscape behind Fanore is one of Ireland's most extraordinary natural environments, the wildflowers in May are legendary.
  • •Fanore is 20km north of Lahinch on the Wild Atlantic Way, worth combining with a Clare surf road trip.

Location

Map showing the location of Fanore in Clare, Ireland

53.1165, -9.2841