Back Beach (Donabate)

Back Beach (Donabate) is a small, sandy sand-bar break with a secluded feel, known for producing short rides when the sandbar is set. Swell typically starts working at around 1.0–1.5 m and it can hold up to about 4 m+ in larger conditions, though consistency is described as limited. Wave quality is generally reported as good, with the break giving both left and right directions depending on how the swell wraps. It tends to prefer south-west to south to south-east swell directions, and North/NorthWest winds are favorable/offshore for cleaner faces. The most reliable timing is usually around mid to high tide (with one source also noting it may work as tides rise and fall). Wind guidance and swell/wrap cues are important here: arriving with the right combination of swell direction and tide position is what makes the spot function. Access is straightforward: park at the Donabate hotel and walk north along the coast path for roughly five minutes to reach the next beach. The spot is commonly described as empty on weekdays and weekends, with a quiet, residential-adjacent character—so it’s best approached with patience and respect for other surfers. Safety is the main constraint. Rocks are reported near the beach ends (and as a hazard overall), and cold water and tidal currents can add difficulty. Check conditions and tide carefully, and consider winter-appropriate protection (including boots, gloves, and a hood when recommended).