With its world class waves, Strandhill attracts seasoned surfers from all over the world. If you’re a beginner or learner, Strandhill beach is a great place to start or improve your skills. Book some lessons with Strandhill Surf School or try stand-up paddle boarding for something new. Lessons last three hours and all you need to bring is a towel and swimwear.
For a deeper experience, book a Mind Body Surf clinic with Rebelle Surf; a female owned and run surf school on the beachfront. Owner Melanie believes that surfing is a form of moving meditation and it’s important to give it your complete focus to get the most from the experience. The sessions combine bodywork, energy practices and surfing for a form of ‘ocean surf therapy’ that leaves you feeling refreshed and invigorated.
It’s fair to say that Strandhill Beach is one of Ireland’s most beautiful beaches. Take a scenic coastal walk from Strandhill to Culleenamore, where you’ll enjoy panoramic views of majestic Benbulben. Strandhill Beach also happens to be one of Sligo’s Wild Atlantic Way Discovery Points and watching a sunset here is a memory you’ll treasure long after your visit.
Right on the seafront, Shells Café is a great spot for lunch after your walk with freshly baked breads and herbs grown in their own organic garden.
Relax in a warm Victorian bath filled with revitalising seaweed at VOYA Seaweed Baths, just off the seafront in Strandhill. The centuries old practise is the ultimate in luxury as the heat releases rich essential oils to relieve tension and re-hydrate your skin. A relaxing treatment in a stunning setting, this is when you’ll really start to feel like you’re on holiday.
Photo credit: @voyaseaweedbaths
A short stroll from the beachfront, The Strandhill People’s Market takes place in the unique venue of Hangar 1 at Sligo Airport, against the backdrop of Knocknarea Mountain. Head there on Sundays and grab a coffee as you browse local crafts, speciality foods and textiles. The soundtrack to your visit is provided by talented musicians and local buskers who set up every weekend.
Photo credit: @strandhillpeoplesmarket
Take a guided kayak tour of the clear coastal waters with Sligo Kayak Tours. Choose from a variety of routes that suit beginners and experienced kayakers. Instructors have lots of knowledge on the local area and you’ll take in some stunning scenery and famous landmarks along the way.
Explore quiet forest paths and admire the spectacular coastal scenery on the Killaspugbrone Loop walk. The 6.9km trail takes about two hours to complete with beautiful views around every turn.
Starting at the northern end of Strandhill’s seafront promenade, the route passes Killaspugbrone Church and follows a path through golden sand dunes and fragrant pine woodland. You’re treated to views of Benbulben, Knocknarea Mountain and Sligo Bay… this really is one of the best things to do in Strandhill.
Sleep under the stars at Strandhill Caravan and Camping Park, you won’t find a more picturesque setting to wake up. Right on the beach and stretched across eight hectares, there’s plenty of room to park a caravan or camper van. If you’re pitching a tent, the campsite is sheltered from the onshore breezes and the sandy ground means there’s no mud.
Photo credit: @dorgan_photography
Regular beach yoga sessions are held all summer long with Your Wellbeing Warrior. The elements become part of the practice as you connect with nature on the soft sand. Try a Yoga and Art or Yoga and Drumming workshop, for some high-octane mindfulness.
Photo credit: @your_wellbeing_warrior
With Knocknarea mountain as a magnificent backdrop, play a round at Strandhill Golf Club overlooking the ocean. It’s hard to find a course with a more beautiful setting and you might just find yourself distracted with all the stunning scenery on display. After, drop into the clubhouse and dissect your game over a creamy pint.
Food lovers can order sociable sharing plates at Stoked. The menu may be inspired by far flung travels, but the produce is as local as it comes. Being so close to the ocean, trying the seafood is a must.
With hearty dishes and epic sea views, a visit to The Venue is a must when in Strandhill. Choose from the varied menu with fresh fish caught that day or try one of their famed steak dinners. Plan your visit for a weekend night and you’ll enjoy some after dinner entertainment as there’s live music every Friday and Saturday.
For dessert, head to Mammy Johnston’s for an award-winning Gelato. Opened in the 1930s, it was one of the first ice-cream parlours in Ireland and is now run by the third generation of the Byrne family.
Photo credit: @stoked_strandhill
Whether you pack lots in or take it easy on your holiday to beautiful Strandhill, you’re sure to leave refreshed, relaxed, and thinking about your next trip. Head over to our Sligo destination page for even more inspiration for your next visit.
