BBH Surf Guide: Pollan Bay, Co. Donegal
Pollan Bay is a versatile, west/northwest-facing beach break that can offer surf year-round, even during the summer months. Because it is ocean-facing, it picks up consistent swell but also requires an understanding of the local conditions to get the best out of your session.
The Break
Consistency: The south end of the bay, which is closest to the Ballyliffin Beach Houses (BBH), is the most consistent area.
Setup: It is a standard beach break offering both left and right waves, though these change depending on the shifting sand conditions.
Sweet Spot: You can usually find a wave near the first buoy, located a few hundred meters up the beach from the southern access point.
Best Tide: Mid-tide is ideal. At high tide, the wave can become "full" and lose its shape. Low tide can work on small waves in summer.
Conditions & Seasons
Best Wind: South (S), Southeast (SE), East (E), or Southwest (SW) winds provide the best conditions. Since the prevailing wind in Donegal is Southwest, Pollan Bay is a viable option for much of the year.
Winter: The swell can become very large; occasionally, the bay cannot "hold" the size. If it looks too heavy, nearby Tullagh Bay or Culdaff are good alternatives.
Spring: Often provides the best combination of mellow waves, drier weather, and favorable easterly winds.
Summer: Waves are generally smaller and more manageable, perfect for beginners or longboarding.
Small Swell Tip: If the waves are tiny, head toward the middle or northern section of the bay, as these areas typically pick up more swell than the south end.
Gear Guide
Surfing in the North Atlantic requires proper gear:
Wetsuit: A 3/2mm is sufficient for summer and into autumn, but you will need a 5/3mm for winter/spring. Depends on how long you want to stay in the water.
Booties: Essential year-round. Look for >3mm thickness; versions with a side zip are the easiest to manage.
Winter/Spring Additions: A hood and gloves are highly recommended during the colder months.
Equipment at BBH
Guests at Ballyliffin Beach Houses have access to shared equipment to get started:
Boards: 8-foot and 7-foot-6 softboards are available, along with bodyboards.
Care: Please avoid scratching the boards and use the external shower at the houses to wash them down with fresh water after every session.
Safety & Crowds
Dangers: Surfing is an extreme sport. Like any ocean-facing bay, rip currents can form. Exercise extreme caution if you are not an experienced surfer. If you’re lucky you will see a basking shark, a seal or dolphins but nothing unfriendly.
Crowds: One of the best things about Pollan Bay is that it rarely gets busy. Even on a "crowded" day, there are usually fewer than 10 surfers in the water.
