Aileens is Ireland's most dramatic big wave—a right-hand reef break that detonates beneath the famous 700-foot Cliffs of Moher on Ireland's west coast. The setting is almost unreal: massive Atlantic swells breaking in front of ancient sea cliffs with birds circling above. The wave rivals Jaws and Teahupo'o in power and requires a 2-mile paddle or jet ski access. When it's on, Aileens produces some of the most powerful waves in the Atlantic, with the added challenge of freezing water and hostile weather.
Difficulty
6/10
Crowd level
3/10
Access: 2mi paddle or jet ski
How well swell angle matches the spot
Wave height in the ideal range
Each spot has different period requirements. Points and reefs can handle longer periods than beaches.
Offshore/glassy conditions