Lahinch

This has become a very popular kite venue. The main beach faces WNW, but there’s also a second launch at the cemetery (along the road to Liscannor about 800m beyond the pitch-&-putt course). On the main beach, south or northerly winds are best while south-west and north-westerlies also work. Westerly is bolt onshore, making it tough to get out. The waves below the cliff (at O’Looney's Surf Bar) can exceed 3m, but beware of rocks that extend a long way out and a rip pulling you onto them. Also take care in the impact zone halfway between the last lifeguard tower and the rivermouth to the north, where waves can jack-up really fast. Also take note of the tidal state, as coming ashore can be a nightmare if the current's pulling onto the rocks. Dangers aside, you can score some lovely rides and jumps in decent waves here.