There is no denying that Ireland is one of the most incredible locations for outdoor sports. From north to south and east to west, we are spoiled for choice when it comes to waterways especially. Not only does the island of Ireland have more than 7,500 km of coastline, it also has 12,000 lakes. Not to mention the hundreds of kilometers of rivers and canals.
The many waters of Ireland have seen Stand Up Paddle Boarding (SUP) gaining in popularity. With so many waterways to choose from there is a type to suit everyone. Some paddle boarders like the open coastline best; others prefer the guaranteed calm that comes with canals and lakes.
What Is Stand Up Paddle Boarding (SUP)
Stand Up Paddle boarding originated in Hawaii before being picked up by water lovers worldwide. It consists of standing on what looks like a large surfboard and using a long paddle to move. SUP isn’t an extreme support which is why it appeals to so many people. It does offer a rewarding cardio and upper body workout though.
Suitable for all ages (from six years up), SUP is something the whole family can enjoy. It is a fun and relaxing way to spend time outdoors. Once you get the SUP bug, you will be heading for water as often as possible.
Where to SUP in Ireland
There are literally thousands of places in Ireland where you can paddle. So many it can be hard to choose. To help you out, we’ve rounded up eight of our favourite places to go Stand Up Paddle Boarding in Ireland.
Crookhaven, County Cork
At a tiny village of only sixty inhabitants in southwest Cork is one of the most mesmerising SUP spots. Crookhaven village really is tiny but it is bordered by some of the clearest water you can paddle.
Located on a peninsula of sorts, Crookhaven gives a choice of calm inland sea on one side or the Atlantic. Crookhaven is a quaint and very chilled spot, perfect for an SUP outing. The waters here are popular with experienced SUP fans as well as groups and families.
The village is used to catering to big crowds in the summer when the tourists arrive. So there are plenty of places to park, eat and accessible toilets.
Royal Canal, Mullingar, County Westmeath
Ireland’s canals were once busy thoroughfares carrying fuel and other important cargoes the length and breadth of the country. Over the last decade these abandoned waterways have been cleaned up after years of neglect. They are now once again home to thriving native flora and fauna and also some of Ireland’s coolest recreational activities.
The Royal Canal runs from Dublin city, past Maynooth and all the way to the River Shannon. Technically, you can SUP on any part of it, but we’ll focus on one paddling route near Mullingar, county Westmeath.
Surrounded by dragonflies and wild birds, enter the water at Coolnahay Bridge, at the 26th Lock. For a short paddle, follow the canal 4km to Ballinea Slip where you will find a cafe for a bite to eat. If you’re feeling adventurous, it’s another 7km to Mullingar Harbour or 19km to McNeads Bridge. Don’t forget you have to paddle back again!
Fountainstown, County Cork
Ten minutes south of Carrigaline in Cork, Fountainstown Beach, is a popular watersports and SUP spot. The beach itself is split into two parts, one sandy and one pebbles. Less than 30 minutes from Cork city, this beach has been attracting water sport fans for years.
For experienced paddle boarders, a nighttime paddle* is recommended during the summer months. During the summer, the night waters of Fountainston are often lit up by bioluminescent plankton. This phenomenon literally makes the water glow. Definitely one for the SUP bucket list.
There is a large car park at Fountainstown beach and a shop, but no toilets.
*stay close to shore.
Lough Derg, County Clare
Over in County Clare in the west, Lough Derg offers a calm and scenic location for paddlers of all levels. If you’re in need of lessons, head to the Killaloe side for some pointers before taking to the open water.
Lough Derg is particularly tranquil and is surrounded by trees and mountain views. As Ireland’s second biggest lake, Derg technically runs into three counties. It even has a designated Blueway of 160km which is broken up into 12 sections. Helpful for deciding which part of the huge lake to explore on your SUP.
You will find access points, including plenty of jetties all around the lake. Some are more remote than others. Around Killaloe and Ballina, there are plenty of cafes and amenities too.
Clogherhead Beach, County Louth
This Blue Flag beach is an hour north of Dublin and located at one of Ireland’s most picturesque fishing villages. With clean waters and a long sandy beach, Clogherhead surprisingly avoids the crowds. Here you are guaranteed a good sea paddle with stunning views.
Waters stay relatively calm on the east coast so there should be plenty of flat waters. Clogherhead has a lot of amenities and during the warmer seasons there are Lifeguards on duty too.
Dunmore East, County Waterford
The harbour beach at Dunmore East is within a sheltered inlet, making it perfect for SUP. At Dunmore East, you will find thatched cottages and pretty streets to explore between paddles. As well as cliff top walks and the occasional festival.
Keep your eyes peeled for dolphins and fin whales whilst paddling here. Short beaked common dolphins regularly delight. The harbour fills up at high tide, so consult tide times before heading out. You can paddle at both times but most people prefer the lower tide times for stiller waters. Note, Dunmore East does get battered by strong waves during bad weather during the winter.
Curracloe Beach, County Wexford
White sands and grassy sand dunes await you at Curracloe Beach, Wexford. This is an area of outstanding natural beauty. Much of which has been classified as protected nature reserves, like The Raven, a protected sand dune system.
Out on the water you will be treated to incredible views of the Irish coastline. Enjoy an early morning paddle at Curracloe Beach before the day gets started or an afternoon out in the summer sun. If you are heading out after work, evening paddlers love Curracloe Beach for sunset stand up paddling. Watch the sky and sea turn orangey pink around you as you enjoy the peach and solitude.
Kerry Dark Sky Reserve, County Kerry
Speaking of sunsets, one of the most rewarding SUP adventures you can have in Ireland is at night. County Kerry has one of only eleven Dark Sky Reserves in the world. Dark Sky Reserves are protected from pollution from artificial light, making them the best places for stargazing.
At county Kerry’s Dark Sky Reserve, SUP fans can head out onto the lake at night. From the glass like still waters watch the night sky come alive above you. Nestled in MacGillycuddy’s Reeks mountains, this is an SUP experience like no other.
Wherever you paddleboard, be sure to always wear the right safety gear and watch out for currents. Stay safe on the water.
The Edge Sports Shop Surfing Department contains everything you need for adults or kids to get ready for your next stand up paddleboarding adventure. Browse our online surf shop for all our SUP boards and much more.
