Aileens
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.
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Spot Details
CustomizeCustomize this spotSwell Requirements
- Optimal direction
- W (280°)
- Direction range
- 250° - 310°
- Size range
- 7.6m - 15.2m
- Ideal size
- 11.6m
- Height multiplier
- 1.08×
- Ideal period
- 16s+
Wind Requirements
- Optimal direction
- E (90°)
- Offshore range
- 45° - 135°
Tide Requirements
- Optimal tide
- all
Difficulty
6/10
Crowd level
3/10
Access: 2mi paddle or jet ski
Frequently Asked Questions
What tide is best at Aileens?
Aileens handles all stages of the tide, so time your session around the wind instead. The live chart above shows the next few days.
What wind direction is offshore at Aileens?
Offshore wind at Aileens blows from the E (90°). Anything in the 45° to 135° range grooms the faces; outside it, expect chop or bumpy conditions.
What swell size and direction work best at Aileens?
Aileens wants W swell (250° to 310°) between 7.6m and 15.2m, with a period of 16s or more for quality waves.
When is the best time of year to surf Aileens?
The main season at Aileens is Sep, Oct, Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar. A secondary window runs Apr. Rare/inconsistent
How do I get to Aileens?
Fly into SNN, then allow about 60 minutes by road. 2mi paddle or jet ski
What kind of wave is Aileens?
Aileens is a big wave break, a right-hander. Difficulty is rated 6/10.
Best Season
Peak: Sep, Oct, Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar
Secondary: Apr
Rare/inconsistent
Getting There
Nearby Spots
Lahinch
🇮🇪 Ireland's surf capital • Atlantic consistency • Complete town
Riley's
🎓 Aileens training ground • Cliff trek access • Often too shallow
Easkey Right
🍀 Sligo's quality right • Handles solid size • Celtic perfection
Mullaghmore Head
☘️ Ireland's beast • Steps meet slabs • Inflatable vests mandatory
Pampa Point
🥶 Donegal solitude • Cold water commitment • Irish gem
Bundoran Peak
🇮🇪 Ireland's premier reef • A-frame peaks • Wild Atlantic Way