Crab Island surf guide

Crab Island is a surf spot that caters specifically to experienced surfers. Located near Doolin, the entry point is easy to find once you're at the harbour car park. Look for the steps that lead down to the water, which you’ll find about 50ft past the new pier. This spot can offer some solid waves, but it requires a bit of effort to get out there, so be prepared for a workout.

The waves at Crab Island tend to be heavy and barrelling, breaking primarily over an uneven reef. You'll mostly find right-hand reef breaks here, which can handle swell sizes of up to 6ft (about 1.8 meters). The optimal swell direction comes from the west, but you can also catch decent waves when the swell is from the southwest or northwest. For the best experience, aim for low to mid tides, and keep an eye on wind conditions; an east wind tends to work best. Just a heads-up, the paddle out is deceptively long, and you really need to know your stuff to handle the steep, jacking take-offs and thicker sections on the wave.

This spot is definitely not for beginners. Only experts should tackle these waves, as the current can be pretty strong, and you might find yourself swimming back with half a board if you get stuck. It’s essential to be confident in the water and know how to read the conditions if you’re planning to surf here. Overall, Crab Island is a challenging but rewarding spot for those with the right skills.