Overview
Mullaghmore Strand is a sandy beachbreak tucked in the lee of the headland, and one of the first places to look when bigger, stormier swells have blown out the more exposed breaks. The beach stretches north from a postcard-perfect harbour village, with its southern end facing nearly due east, which gives it genuine shelter from west gales. It takes a large swell to wrap around the head, so the waves here vary in size and quality, but when they do arrive it's a forgiving, friendly wave.
When It Works
The beach draws swell from west to northwest, with northwest (NW) swell the best match, and it needs real size before waves bend around the headland onto the sand. It works from 0.6 m / 2 ft to 2.4 m / 8 ft, peeling both left and right over sand. Autumn through spring are the productive seasons, and winter usually delivers the large swells needed to get it going. Consistency is on the low side, so treat it as a spot that comes alive in the right conditions rather than an everyday option. The river at the northern end sometimes builds a decent sandbar.
Wind and Tide
Offshore winds blow from the southwest (SW). The beach works across low, mid, and high tide, though a rising tide is generally the better call. Higher tides push more swell onto the sand and can set up several peaks, while low tide tends to close out the whole beach.
Local Tips
This is a genuine beginner's wave, well suited to longboards, funboards, and fish, with a little more push toward the eastern end. The lineup stays quiet and can feel somewhat reserved, so expect a low-key session when it's breaking.
Access
Follow the signs for the beach car park, where parking is free. Facilities include restrooms, camping, and a surf school.
