Whiterocks
Below white chalk cliffs, the most powerful peak on Portrush's beach.
Whiterocks is at the eastern end of the Portrush beach, below white chalk cliffs with caves and arches. It's the most powerful part of the beach, with peaks both ways.
It's the area most surfed by locals.
Spot facts
| Wave type | Beach break |
|---|---|
| Direction | Lefts and rights |
| Level | Intermediate |
| Best swell | NW, N |
| Best wind (offshore) | S, SW |
| Tide | All tides |
| Size | 0.8–2.5 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. How many litres? Work out your volume with the volume calculator.
What to bring to surf Whiterocks
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
Lots of local surfers. Respect priority.
Surfing style
Powerful beach break.
Hazards
Currents and rocks by the cliff.
Map
Other spots nearby
Portrush (Antrim)
Portrush's main beach, with barrels by the Arcadia on good days.
Bushmills (Antrim)
A bay next to the Giant's Causeway, with a short, hollow river-mouth wave.
Portrush (Antrim)
Portrush's gentlest beach, by the harbour: good for learning.
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.