The Surf Window

Whiterocks

Causeway Coast, Northern Ireland

Reef breakAdvanced

Just east of Portrush, Whiterocks is a white limestone cliff-backed beach where north and northwest swells create quality beach break peaks in one of Northern Ireland's most dramatic coastal settings.

Typical Conditions

The Surf Window

Swell Window

N
OptimalW (270°)
WindowSSW–NNW (210°–330°)
Size–N 1.5–3m at 12–16s

Wind

S

Light to SE under 15 knots

Tide

Mid tide

LowMidHigh

Season

Oct–Apr

JFMAMJJASOND

The Wave

Type

Beach break

Bottom

Sand and occasional limestone rock

Shape

Multiple peaks, more powerful than East Strand

Length

60–120m

Skill Level

  • •Who it's for: Intermediate to advanced
  • •Why: More exposed than East Strand, bigger swells arrive with more power

Hazards

  • •Limestone cliff falls occasionally drop rocks on the beach, don't surf below unstable sections
  • •Strong rip currents
  • •Cold water year-round

Local Tips

  • •The white limestone caves at the base of the cliffs are extraordinary, explore at low tide
  • •Dunluce Castle ruins are visible from the beach, one of Ireland's most dramatic medieval ruins
  • •The Bushmills Distillery (world's oldest licensed distillery) is 10 minutes away

Location

Map showing the location of Whiterocks in Causeway Coast, Northern Ireland

55.2100, -6.6119