Set out on a paddle through Wicklow Harbour and the Vartry River with Brittas Bay Surf School. Glide past charming boats, watch for Sammy the seal, and enjoy a water adventure full of Irish coastal charm. Read on to find out what makes this tidal SUP experience uniquely Irish.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1.5–2 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness recommended; paddling can be sustained comfortably with basic physical condition
Wildlife
History
Wicklow Harbour has long been a crucial fishing port, shaping the region’s maritime heritage.
Conservation
Local outfitters promote eco-friendly paddling practices to minimize environmental impact and preserve wildlife habitats.
Brittas Bay Surf School
Set out on a paddle through Wicklow Harbour and the Vartry River with Brittas Bay Surf School. Glide past charming boats, watch for Sammy the seal, and enjoy a water adventure full of Irish coastal charm. Read on to find out what makes this tidal SUP experience uniquely Irish.
Brittas Bay Surf School is a surf and paddle school based at Magheramore in County Wicklow. The school offers a range of guided experiences including group and private surf lessons, multi-day kids surf camps, tidal stand-up paddleboarding tours and coastal paddleboard tours.
Lessons and camps are led by experienced instructors; the Group Surf Lesson listing specifies ISA certified instructors. Many programs include full equipment provision such as wetsuits, life jackets and boards, and sessions emphasize water safety, ocean awareness and basic beach lifeguard skills.
Camps are offered in multiple formats and lengths to suit families and young learners, including one-day, two-day, three-day, four-day and five-day options, plus a Prospect Park Ballymoney three-day camp focused on ocean awareness and watercraft skills. Camp programs combine surfing, stand-up paddleboarding and beach games to build confidence and practical water skills for children.
On-water experiences for adults and confident paddlers include the Wicklow Harbour Tidal SUP — a tidal paddle along the Vartry River with opportunities to spot local seal life — and a two-hour Coastal Tour along the Wicklow coastline. Private surf lessons provide tailored instruction and detailed feedback for individuals, families or small groups.
All bookings take place at the Magheramore base in County Wicklow. The business presents itself as a local provider of surf instruction and paddle experiences with an emphasis on safety, equipment provision and progressive learning.
Sessions include two-hour group lessons, two-hour coastal tours and longer multi-day camp formats, accommodating beginner through intermediate ability levels and families on local beaches.
Base Location
Magheramore
County Wicklow surf base
Tours Offered
11
Guided lessons and tours
Kids Camps
6
One- to five-day camps
ISA Instruction
Available
Group lessons list ISA certified
Many experiences include equipment and safety gear; check specific trip pages for exact inclusions and booking details.
Check tidal schedules
Plan your trip around high tide for smoother paddling conditions and more scenic views.
Wear appropriate clothing
Dress in quick-drying clothes and bring layers, as weather can change quickly on the water.
Listen to your instructor
Follow safety instructions given by Brittas Bay Surf School guides for a secure experience.
Watch out for local wildlife
Seals and seabirds are common sights; enjoy but keep a respectful distance.
Personal Flotation Device (PFD)
A life jacket is crucial for safety and required by law during water activities.
Quick-drying clothing
Helps keep you comfortable and dry during paddling regardless of weather.
spring|summer|fall|winter
Sun protection (hat, sunscreen)
Protect your skin during sunny summer paddles.
summer
Waterproof jacket
Keeps you warm and dry when weather turns brisk or rainy.
fall|winter