Portrush ranked among Ireland’s best surf destinations
Portrush isn’t just Northern Ireland’s favourite seaside town – it’s officially one of the best places to catch a wave on the island of Ireland. With world-class conditions, long sandy beaches and a thriving surf culture, the Causeway Coast’s surf capital is a magnet for everyone from first timers to seasoned riders.
Global surf and travel guides consistently rank Portrush in their “best of” lists:
- Red Bull named nearby Whiterocks Beach the #3 surf spot in Ireland, thanks to its mighty Atlantic swells.
- The Guardian hailed Portrush’s West Strand and East Strand as among the UK’s best surfing beaches, highlighting the clean offshore waves that break year-round.
- Lonely Planet singled out Portrush as one of the top places in the UK to learn to surf, praising its accessibility and buzzing beach vibe.
“Portrush is synonymous with surfing in Northern Ireland,” said Charlotte Dixon, Managing Director of Elephant Rock Boutique Hotel. “We’re proud to have some of Europe’s most reliable waves right on our doorstep – and we love being able to offer surfers a stylish base to balance adrenaline on the water with comfort and great food back on dry land.”
Surf, Stay and Dive
Portrush’s East and West Strands are just minutes from Elephant Rock, with surf schools including Troggs and Alive offering lessons and equipment hire. Summer swells are perfect for beginners, while autumn and winter bring consistent surf that draws serious wave-hunters from across the world.
For those looking to take their ocean adventures to the next level, Portrush is also home to Freedive Northern Ireland, founded by surfer and freediving expert Hanno Windisch – best known for tackling 40ft waves in Channel 4’s Man vs Wave. Offering courses and experiences that unlock the art of diving on a single breath, it’s a unique way to connect with the raw power and tranquillity of the Atlantic.
Back at Elephant Rock, guests can retreat to one of the hotel’s 18 individually styled bedrooms – many with sweeping sea views. The award-winning restaurant, Eldon’s, champions local produce, while Vi’s rooftop bar is the perfect spot for a post-surf (or post-dive) cocktail as the sun sets over the Atlantic.
Boutique Luxury Meets Coastal Energy
Since opening in 2022, Elephant Rock has scooped multiple accolades, including Boutique Hotel of the Year and 4 Star Hotel of the Year, cementing its reputation as one of Northern Ireland’s most stylish coastal escapes. With bold art-deco interiors, a buzzing cocktail bar, and a team passionate about hospitality, the hotel has become a firm favourite with travellers seeking adventure by day and boutique luxury by night.
“Portrush is world-famous for its surf,” added Charlotte. “Whether you’re grabbing your first lesson, chasing your next big wave, or freediving into the deep, it’s all happening here – and Elephant Rock is the perfect place to make it your own surfside sanctuary.”
