Rossnowlagh is nestled deep into Donegal Bay and is known for its long, flat sandy beach stretching over 3km. It’s a popular spot, especially for families and beginners looking for a friendly wave. The vibe here is pretty laid-back, making it a great spot for a day out at the beach. Parking is available in the town lot, but while you can park on the beach, it’s usually not recommended due to high tide concerns.

The surf at Rossnowlagh is generally smaller and less powerful than surrounding breaks, which makes it a go-to for those just starting out or for anyone wanting a relaxed session. The waves typically range from knee to head high (about 0.5 to 2.1 meters), with more clean, rolling peaks forming at mid to high tide. You can expect to catch some fun lefts and rights, especially in the rip at the south end near the cliffs. The best conditions hit with southwesterly to northwesterly swells (optimal is west), and it can handle swell sizes from about 4ft to 7ft (1.2 to 2.1 meters). The beach breaks over sand, offering plenty of options for shortboarders, longboarders, funboarders, or even fish surfers. If you’re up for it, get out here in any season—summer, autumn, winter, or spring—and you’ll likely find something fun to ride.

The crowd factor can be pretty busy on sunny weekends, but it's mostly well spread out, so it doesn’t feel too cramped. There’s a friendly, happy-go-lucky vibe here, making it perfect for kids and families. Just keep an eye out for weeverfish while you’re enjoying your surf session, and watch for the rip currents at the south end of the beach.