Surfing
Surfing
Best surf spots: Dingle Peninsula
Local surfer Tom Knox gives the lowdown on the best hidden spots on Ireland's Dingle Peninsula
Wild Atlantic Way Dingle Peninsula
© Mikey Corker
I’ve been told by a few people that Tom Knox was the guy to speak to if I ever wanted to go to the Dingle. Tom knows the Dingle Peninsula like the back of his hand, he’s born and bred. He’s a true local.
If you're up for an adventure and fancy following in the footsteps of Andrew Cotton along the Wild Atlantic Way, then check out Tom's pick of the best hidden gems below.
I would describe the Dingle Peninsula to someone who’s never been here as a mystical, magical place. Just the sheer amount of coastline that you have to explore is amazing. You’ve just got to get out there, be adventurous and have a look.
1. Coumeenoole
“Coumeenoole is a great beach for intermediate and advanced surfers. It’s a very beautiful place to unwind and surf fun, powerful, sand-bottomed waves. Crystal clear water and fresh Atlantic air on one of the most westerly beaches in Europe is something that you never take for granted.
“Coumeenoole is good in the summer when the sand settles and gets best towards August and September. The scenic drive around the sea head is synonymous with visiting the area. Dingle is a great place to stay with great nightlife and food – fresh fish and lamb from Blasket Island are a must.”
Tom Knox on his home turf
© [unknown]
2. Inch Reef
“Inch Reef screams fun, with great waves for intermediates upwards. It offers up fun long waves for long, drawn out turns and can get very hollow with the offshore winds from the north. This gives multiple sections for everyone to enjoy.
“It is featured in the third episode of Wild Atlantic Way and all I can say is, look and you shall find. 99 percent of waves in Kerry are visible from the road, so you can just drive around and meet up with the local crew – they are more than happy to point you in the right direction for getting in and out of the water.
"Inch Reef can be good all year round – the Dingle Peninsula is fickle, but it has options for most wind and swell directions.”
3. Brandon Bay
“There is a very friendly, small tight crew of surfers on the Dingle Peninsula. It never really gets crowded so there’s always plenty of waves for everyone – so get in your car and come explore. I am still exploring here.”
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