East Strand
Portrush's main beach, with barrels by the Arcadia on good days.
East Strand is Portrush's big beach, running towards Whiterocks. By the Arcadia building there's a late-take-off right that can barrel; further along the beach there are easier peaks.
In big swell there are strong currents and long hold-downs: it's no place for beginners on those days.
Spot facts
| Wave type | Beach break |
|---|---|
| Direction | Lefts and rights |
| Level | Intermediate |
| Best swell | NW, N |
| Best wind (offshore) | S, SW, SE |
| Tide | All tides |
| Size | 0.8–3 m |
| Best season | September to April |
| Crowd | Heavy |
| Localism | Medium |
Surf forecast
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Hour-by-hour forecast for 14 days, with stars for your board and level, and the whole site without ads.
Model forecast for open water a few kilometres offshore: it can't see sandbanks or the shelter of headlands and jetties. The rating (0–5) is worked out from this spot's ideal swell and wind. Use it as a guide and check the sea before paddling out. Data: Open-Meteo (DWD, ECMWF; CC BY 4.0)
Which board to bring
A shortboard or fish; a funboard on the easier peaks. How many litres? Work out your volume with the volume calculator.
What to bring to surf East Strand
The water is around 8 °C in winter and 14 °C in late summer. This is what we'd bring for this spot's water, level and boards.
For winter water at 8–11 °C.
View on AmazonWarm feet in winter and protection on rocks.
View on AmazonKeeps your board from drifting off or hitting someone.
View on AmazonThe classic fish fins: speed in soft waves.
View on AmazonWarm-water wax won't grip in this water.
View on AmazonAmazon affiliate links: if you buy through them, Shapers Europe earns a small commission at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
Localism and vibe
A skilled local crew at the Arcadia peak. If you're not experienced, find a peak further along the beach.
Surfing style
Beach break with barrels.
Hazards
Currents and long hold-downs in big swell.
Map
Other spots nearby
Portrush (Antrim)
Portrush's gentlest beach, by the harbour: good for learning.
Portrush (Antrim)
Below white chalk cliffs, the most powerful peak on Portrush's beach.
Bushmills (Antrim)
A bay next to the Giant's Causeway, with a short, hollow river-mouth wave.
Portstewart (Londonderry)
About 3 km of National Trust beach, with peaks along the whole strand.
All spots in Northern Ireland →
Indicative information gathered from surf guides and surfers' experience. Conditions change with the sandbanks: check the forecast and ask at the beach.