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.
Today's Conditions
Location & Conditions
Tide Times
Strike Score Breakdown
Location & Conditions
Spot Details
Swell Requirements
- Optimal direction
- WNW (285°)
- Direction range
- 250° - 320°
- Size range
- 1.5m - 4m
- Ideal size
- 3.5m
- Height multiplier
- 1.08×
- Ideal period
- 16s+
Wind Requirements
- Optimal direction
- E (90°)
- Offshore range
- 45° - 135°
- Best window
- morning
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
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 • 700ft 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