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Build your surf skills and ocean confidence with this five-day adult surf camp in Strandhill, County Sligo. With progressive coaching, structured beach sessions, and environmental awareness built in, this surf camp is ideal for beginners or those looking to refresh their technique. Equipment and use of changing facilities are included — all you need is your swimwear and towel.
Day One
On arrival, participants are introduced to the instructors and given a walkthrough of the camp structure. After gearing up, you’ll head to the flagged surf zone to cover equipment handling, beach safety procedures, and key hand signals. The first surf session focuses on paddling, board control, and getting comfortable in the surf.
Day Two
The second day begins with a recap of safety and technique. Instructors help identify personal goals and areas for improvement. Time in the water is used to refine your pop-up and build consistency in catching and riding waves. You’ll also practise maintaining position in the surf zone and develop better wave timing.
Day Three
Focus shifts to wave selection, with instructors offering tips on spotting good waves and avoiding wipeouts. There’s also a beach chat on the science behind swell, wind, and tide patterns specific to Strandhill. This session helps tie in theory with practice, giving you a broader understanding of your environment.
Day Four
With your technique now more solid, instructors introduce tips on turning and trimming the board. You’ll also learn how to identify rip currents and develop strategies for managing them. Beach games and drills help reinforce what you’ve learned while keeping sessions fun and active.
Day Five
The final session is more relaxed, giving you time to consolidate what you've learned. Before heading in, the group takes part in a quick two-minute beach clean, reinforcing the importance of caring for the coastline. After your last surf, each participant receives a completion certificate and personalised feedback from the instructors.
Strandhill is one of Ireland’s best-known surf beaches, offering consistent Atlantic swell and a wide sandy bay ideal for learning and improving surf skills. The beach has lifeguard cover in summer and a welcoming surf-focused community.
The camp meets at the National Surf Centre on Shore Road. Located opposite the Strand Bar and close to local shops, cafés, and public transport, it’s a convenient spot for both locals and visitors.
This surf camp is open to all adults aged 18 and over, regardless of experience. Whether you’re stepping on a surfboard for the first time or returning after a break, the coaching is adapted to your current level and personal goals.
Participants should be comfortable in the sea and prepared for physical activity across the five-day course. No prior knowledge of surfing or swimming proficiency beyond basic water confidence is needed. Don't worry if you're not a strong swimmer - you'll be surfing, not swimming!
The surf school is led by a team of fully qualified instructors who hold Irish Water Safety beach lifeguard certification, Level 1 Surf Instructor status from Irish Surfing, and child safeguarding training through Sport Ireland. Each instructor receives additional onsite training from the lead manager, who brings over a decade of experience running adult and youth surf camps at Strandhill.
All sessions follow Irish Surfing’s safety guidelines. Instructors carry rescue gear and first aid kits, use walkie-talkies for group coordination, and mark out a designated safe zone on the beach. With a long-standing record of excellent safety and surf coaching, the team delivers a surf camp experience that’s fun, inclusive, and designed for steady progress.
This surf camp usually goes ahead in most weather conditions, including rain, as you'll be in the water anyway. Sessions are only postponed or cancelled if conditions are unsafe—such as during strong winds, electrical storms, or dangerously rough seas. In this case, you’ll be contacted directly with options to reschedule or receive a credit or refund.
Coastal weather can change quickly, so it’s a good idea to check your messages the evening before and morning of your booking. Instructors will always adapt the session to suit the conditions, choosing the safest and most suitable area on the beach.
You'll need a swimsuit for under the wetsuit, a towel, and something easy to slip on your feet like flip-flops. Waterproof sun cream is recommended—even on cloudy days—and if you wear contact lenses, disposable ones work best. Long hair should be tied up, and a warm layer for after the session is worth packing.
All surfing equipment is provided, including wetsuits, boots, and boards. You may also want to bring a refillable water bottle, snacks, and a change of clothes if you're heading elsewhere afterwards.
You don’t need to be a strong swimmer to join this session, you'll be surfing, not swimming! Lessons usually take place in waist-depth water and always under close supervision. The focus is on support and safety, so instructors will work to your comfort level.
Wetsuits add natural buoyancy, and if you’re feeling unsure, just let your instructor know at the start. They can adjust your time in the water to help you feel more at ease and build confidence at your own pace.
Yes, this camp is ideal for adults new to surfing. Each day starts with a practical introduction on the beach, covering how to use the board, get into position, and stay safe in the water. Instructors guide you through the basics with tips and demonstrations.
You’ll learn step-by-step with encouragement throughout the week, gradually building your confidence and technique. Whether your goal is to catch your first wave or simply enjoy time in the sea, there’s no pressure—just a relaxed, welcoming environment.
Yes—participants have access to changing rooms and hot showers in the National Surf Centre, right by the meeting point. These facilities are shared with other users of the centre but provide a convenient and comfortable space to get ready before and after your session.
We recommend bringing a towel, swimwear, and a small bag for your belongings. You’ll also have access to secure storage while you're out on the beach.
The meeting point for this session is Shore Road, Strandhill—right across from the Strand Bar. This is where you'll check in and meet your instructor.
If you're driving, there are two free public car parks nearby. The seafront car park is the closest, but it fills up quickly—especially in the summer months. The main car park on Shore Road is a better bet and just a short 200-metre walk from the beach. To avoid delays, plan to arrive at least 15 minutes early to allow time for parking and getting ready. Sessions start on time, and late arrivals may miss part of the introduction.
All instructors leading adult sessions are certified by Irish Surfing with a Level 1 surf instructor qualification and hold a valid Irish Water Safety beach lifeguard award. They also complete the Sport Ireland Safeguarding 1 course and take part in regular on-site training.
With over ten years of experience delivering lessons at Strandhill, the team brings detailed local knowledge and a high standard of safety. Every session is run with professionalism, clear communication, and care for both the participants and the environment.
Accommodation is not included in this surf camp. However, there are several great options in Strandhill and nearby Sligo, ranging from self-catering apartments and B&Bs to hotels. You’re free to choose a place that suits your style and budget, whether you’re after something quiet and convenient or right in the heart of the village.
If you need recommendations, just get in touch—we’re happy to point you towards local places that are popular with visiting surfers.
About the centre
Strandhill
Operated by Sligo Surf Experience, a partner of adventuro.
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