Doughmore seasonal overview
Best Surf Season (October - March)
Doughmore's premium period revolves around the North Atlantic storm track. From October through March, the average swell rises to 6-8ft (1.8-2.5m) and the average period runs between 11 and 13 seconds, giving the west-facing beach consistent, powerful groundswell from the SW, WSW, W and WNW. This is largely driven by a positive North Atlantic Oscillation, which steers strong extratropical cyclones toward Ireland. The trade-off is wind: the prevailing westerly-to-southwesterly flow is often onshore, so the best days come when high pressure slips in from the east and sets up clean offshore NE-ESE conditions. When that combination aligns, the quality is exceptional.
Fair Surf Season (April - May and September)
During the shoulder months of April, May and September, Doughmore eases into a more forgiving rhythm. Average heights are smaller, typically 4-5ft (1.2-1.5m), and periods sit in the 10-11s range, but the wave direction remains favorable. April in particular boasts the highest percentage of ideal offshore winds at 29%, and September often sees a strong return of west groundswell just before the storm season peaks. These months are perfect for those who want good waves without the full onshore fury of winter.
Low Surf Season (June - August)
The summer months are Doughmore's low season. June, July and August see average swell heights drop to 3-4ft (1-1.2m) and periods shrink to under 9s, leaving mostly short-period windswell from the west. Onshore westerly breezes dominate, and ideal offshore winds only occur 16-20% of the time. It's not completely flat - there are usually rideable peaks, especially at dawn before the sea breeze kicks in - but the wave quality and power are a far cry from winter. This is longboard and funboard territory, not serious shortboard charging.