With its world-class waves, Strandhill attracts seasoned surfers from all over the world. If you’re a beginner or learner, Strandhill Beach is a great place to start or improve your skills. Book some lessons with Strandhill Surf School or try stand-up paddle boarding for something new. Lessons last three hours and all you need to bring is a towel and swimwear.
If you're slightly nervous about getting in the water, the ground floor of the National Surf Centre hosts in-depth surf class training and demonstrations, so you can get to grips before putting on a wetsuit.
For a deeper experience, book a Mind Body Surf clinic with Rebelle Surf, a woman-owned and run surf school on the beachfront. Owner Melanie believes that surfing is a form of moving meditation and it’s important to give it your complete focus to get the most from the experience. The sessions combine bodywork, energy practices and surfing for a form of ‘ocean surf therapy’ that leaves you feeling refreshed and invigorated.
It’s fair to say that Strandhill Beach is one of Ireland’s most beautiful beaches. Take a scenic coastal walk from Strandhill to Culleenamore, where you’ll enjoy panoramic views of majestic Benbulben. Strandhill Beach also happens to be one of the county's Wild Atlantic Way Discovery Points, and watching a sunset here is a memory you’ll treasure long after your visit.
Right on the seafront, Shells Café is a great spot for lunch after your walk, with freshly baked breads and herbs grown in their own organic garden.
Relax in a warm Victorian bath filled with revitalising seaweed at VOYA Seaweed Baths, just off the seafront in Strandhill. The centuries old practise is the ultimate in luxury as the heat releases rich essential oils to relieve tension and re-hydrate your skin. A relaxing treatment in a stunning setting, this is when you’ll really start to feel like you’re on holiday.
A short stroll from the beachfront, the Strandhill People’s Market takes place in the unique venue of Hangar 1 at Sligo Airport, against the backdrop of Knocknarea Mountain. Head there on Sundays and grab a coffee as you browse local crafts, speciality foods and textiles. The soundtrack to your visit is provided by talented musicians and local buskers who set up every weekend.
Take a guided kayak tour of the clear coastal waters with Sligo Kayak Tours. Choose from a variety of routes that suit beginners and experienced kayakers. Instructors have lots of knowledge on the local area and you’ll take in some stunning scenery and famous landmarks along the way.
Explore quiet forest paths and admire the coastal scenery on the Killaspugbrone Loop walk. The 6.9km trail takes about two hours to complete with beautiful views around every turn.
Starting at the northern end of Strandhill’s seafront promenade, the route passes Killaspugbrone Church and follows a path through golden sand dunes and fragrant pine woodland. From here, you'll have fantastic views of Benbulben, Knocknarea Mountain and Sligo Bay.
Be at one with nature and sleep under the stars at Strandhill Caravan and Camping Park. Right on the beach and stretched across eight hectares, there’s plenty of room to park a caravan or camper van. If you’re pitching a tent, the campsite is sheltered from the onshore breezes and the sandy ground means there’s no mud.
Photo credit: @dorgan_photography
Regular beach yoga sessions are held all summer long with Your Wellbeing Warrior. The elements become part of the practice as you connect with nature on the soft sand. Try a Yoga and Art or Yoga and Drumming workshop for some high-octane mindfulness.
Photo credit: @your_wellbeing_warrior
With Knocknarea Mountain as your backdrop, play a round at Strandhill Golf Club overlooking the ocean – but try not to get too distracted by the beautiful scenery. After, drop into the clubhouse and dissect your game over a creamy pint.
Food lovers can order sociable sharing plates at Stoked. The menu may be inspired by far-flung travels, but the produce and seafood are as local as it comes.
Photo credit: @stoked_strandhill
At The Venue, choose from fresh-caught fish, a steak dinner and other hearty mains while looking out across the water. Plan your visit for a weekend night and you’ll enjoy some after dinner entertainment as there’s live music every Friday and Saturday.
For dessert, head to Mammy Johnston’s for an award-winning gelato. Opened in the 1930s, it was one of the first ice cream parlours in Ireland and is now run by the third generation of the Byrne family.
Once you've experienced all that Strandhill has to offer, broaden your horizons and explore more of Sligo.
