Black Rocks / Ulster / Ireland

When everything is in the right direction, Black Rocks can be one of the top spots in Ireland. A light south-westerly wind is the ideal, while the groundswell is sometimes unfulfilling unless it comes from the right direction. When all the conditions are right, it can be one of the most satisfying rides around for surfers. Most other watersports are better catered for elsewhere, so you are likely to find little but surfers and bodyboarders here. Epitomising the characteristics of the area, Black Rocks can be a real mixture of the great and the miserable.

A mix of volcanic rock and wide sand make it a double-edged sword. Beginners will have to make themselves aware of the danger zones, while the more experienced can take advantage of the titular Black Rock, to increase ride time. Indeed, the rock jutting into the sea can be the most dangerous part of your surf in larger swells.

The wave direction is from the left, and the best time to tackle any watersport is high to medium tide. Any lower and rocks become a genuine hazard. While the breaks are rarely dangerously large, it can still be an exciting place to surf. A good southerly wind is generally favoured, as the area is prone to irritating chop from other directions.

Located close to the town of Coleraine, it’s a reasonably short drive up the road to Black Rocks, and the area has a large range of shops and tourism based around the watersports. There is also a local train service which takes you directly to Portrush, the smaller hub of the area.

The largest hazard to any watersport enthusiasts is the high level of rocks on the beach. High tide and medium high tides are highly recommended. It’s also worth noting that the Black Rock jumping point is for those who know the area well.