Riley's
Riley's is the proving ground for Ireland's big wave chargers—a shallow, heavy slab that serves as training for the more serious Aileens nearby. The wave breaks over a dangerously shallow reef in Ballard Bay and requires a treacherous cliff trek to access. Often too shallow to surf safely, Riley's demands precise conditions and serious commitment. The cold Atlantic water and hostile Irish weather add to the challenge. This is where aspiring Irish big wave surfers cut their teeth.
Riley's surf forecast
Model forecast for swell, wind and tide.
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Spot Details
CustomizeCustomize this spotSwell Requirements
- Optimal direction
- WNW (285°)
- Direction range
- 250° - 320°
- Size range
- 1.5m - 4m
- Ideal size
- 2.6m - 3.4m
- Height multiplier
- 1.08×
- Ideal period
- 16s+
Wind Requirements
- Optimal direction
- E (90°)
- Offshore range
- 45° - 135°
Tide Requirements
- Optimal tide
- mid to high
Water temp
12°C
Wetsuit
5/4mm + boots
Difficulty
9/10
Crowd level
2/10
Access: Dangerous cliff trek
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of wave is Riley's?
Riley's is a slab in Ballard Bay, Co. Clare, Ireland, that mostly breaks left.
What swell works best at Riley's?
Riley's picks up swell from the WSW round to the NW, and it's best when it's coming straight out of the WNW. It starts working at around 1.5m and handles up to about 4m, with the sweet spot around 2.6 to 3.4m. Period matters too: aim for 16s or longer, as anything under 12s tends to be weak. These are the numbers our scoring uses, so treat them as a guide rather than a promise.
What wind is offshore at Riley's?
An E wind is dead offshore at Riley's, and anything from the NE round to the SE keeps it clean. The morning is typically the best window, roughly 6am to midday. Light winds from other directions can still be fine; strong offshores can make it hard to get into waves.
What tide is best at Riley's?
Riley's is at its best around the mid to high tide.
When is the best time of year to surf Riley's?
The most reliable run of swell at Riley's comes Oct to Mar. Fickle/rare. Needs specific swell angle and light winds.
How cold is the water at Riley's?
The water at Riley's averages around 12°C, so you'll want a 5/4mm with boots. It shifts a few degrees through the year, so check the season before you pack.
Is Riley's good for beginners?
No. As a slab, it's strictly for experienced surfers. The lineup is usually quiet (crowd 2/10). Very shallow reef. Heavy slab.
How do I get to Riley's?
The nearest airport on our list is SNN, then it's roughly a one-hour drive. Dangerous cliff trek.
What other surf spots are near Riley's?
The closest breaks we track are Aileens (9.1 km) and Lahinch (11 km), handy when Riley's isn't working.
Best Season
Peak: Oct, Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar
Fickle/rare. Needs specific swell angle and light winds.
Getting There
Nearby Spots
Aileens
🦅 Beneath the Cliffs of Moher • Towering backdrop • Atlantic power
Lahinch
🇮🇪 Ireland's surf capital • Atlantic consistency • Complete town
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
Plan a trip around Riley's
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