Clifden Hole

Brief feature description

Clifden is a tidal race that runs through two arches of a bridge and the second arch forms a lovely play hole. All hole moves are possible here so there's lots of fun to be had! It's tidal so it's saltwater. The feature works all year round and the water is quite warm in the summer months.

Location

Located just outside Clifden town. To get here from Galway City take the N59 which leads directly to Clifden which is about 70km from Galway. The drive is through one of the most scenic areas of Ireland, Connemara. When in Clifden you need to take the road to Ballyconeeley. So drive into the town and as you approach Market street instead of turning right onto this street go straight ahead. The road narrows and you drive over a small bridge. The road widens again as you leave the town and drive for about 1 km and you will see a school on your right. Park here.

Required Conditions

Clifden only works on Spring Tides, the hole forms about 2 hours before Galway Harbour High tide. The tide must be 4.5 metres(14 ft)+ to be any good. It works best at around 5 metres(16 ft) +/-. If the tide is 17ft+ a wave forms downstram of the first arch. Wait until the rock in the pool beside this wave is covered as it is quite shallow over here. The wave is only good for front surfing or the odd blunt or spin but still good fun. The hole can often get quite beaty at these levels so the mellow wave is a nice way to take a break.