Free Surfing Lessons Coming to Barleycove Beach This August

Clean Coasts and Fáilte Ireland are bringing free surfing taster sessions to West Cork, offering locals and visitors the perfect opportunity to catch their first wave at Barleycove Beach on 26th August, with all equipment and expert instruction provided.

The event, part of the #2MinuteBeachClean Summer Surf Club initiative, will run from 12pm to 2pm at one of Cork's most scenic beaches. Whether you're a complete beginner or looking to try something new, experienced instructors from Barley Cove Surf Camp will ensure everyone gets a safe and enjoyable introduction to surfing.

The initiative combines the thrill of surfing with environmental stewardship, as participants will also take part in a beach clean-up activity. It's a simple but effective way to give back to the coastline that provides so much enjoyment to locals and visitors alike.

Bronagh Moore, Coastal Communities Manager at Clean Coasts:

"Spending time in the water or by the sea is a fantastic way to connect with nature and enjoy the benefits that it brings. It's so important to remember to give back by doing something simple like a #2minutebeachclean which not only creates a nicer environment for everyone using the beach but also protects marine life in it too."

Clean Coasts Development Officer for Cork, Elaine Doyle, will be present on the day to lead the clean-up effort and discuss how small actions by many people can create powerful positive change for our coastal environment. Refreshments will be available after the session, giving participants a chance to chat and share their surfing experience.

The Barleycove event is one of four free surfing sessions happening across Ireland this August. Other locations include Curracloe Beach in Wexford on 22nd August, Bunmahon Beach in Waterford on 26th August (exclusively for those with additional needs), and Lahinch Beach in Clare on 28th August.

Places are limited and booking is essential through Eventbrite. With Barleycove's reputation as one of Ireland's finest beaches, complete with its famous sand dunes and crystal-clear waters, this free event offers the perfect introduction to surfing in a stunning West Cork setting.

The Clean Coasts programme has been working with communities since 2003 to protect Ireland's waterways, coastline, and marine life. Currently, over 2,000 registered Clean Coasts volunteering groups and 40,000 volunteers work to keep Ireland's beaches pristine for both wildlife and the millions who enjoy them each year.

For those who've always fancied trying surfing but never taken the plunge, this free event removes all barriers: no equipment needed, no experience required, just bring yourself and a willingness to try something new while helping protect our beautiful Cork coastline.