Elly Bay on the Mullet Peninsula is arguably one of the best locations in Ireland for winging and windsurfing.
Because it is a largely enclosed bay, it offers safe, flat-water conditions on the inside, regardless of how wild the Atlantic is on the outside. For wing foilers, this is a "freestyle" paradise, with perfectly flat water behind the sandspits. The community is centred around the local adventure centres, making it a very safe and supportive place to learn. The advantage of Elly Bay is its reliability; it works in almost any wind direction. The main negative is the remoteness; it is a long drive to the far west of Mayo, though the quality of the session usually makes it worthwhile. Ideal Wind: ALL (Enclosed bay works in any direction) Viable Wind: ALL (N, NE, E, SE, S, SW, W, NW)
ALL (Enclosed Mayo bay; safe in any wind)
15-22 knots for stable flight and small swell; 25 knots + for advanced wave riding with 3m or smaller wings.
Best at High Tide (+/- 2 hrs) for consistent depth across the bay. Although it is sailable at all tides.
14 Day - Tide Calendar for Elly Bay →Overall
A safe, enclosed bay that works in almost any wind direction. A freestyle paradise.
Vibe & Crowds
Safe and supportive. Centered around the local adventure centres. A great place to learn. Low to Moderate. Rarely feels crowded. The safest place in Mayo for a session.
Suitable For
Perfectly flat water and a safe sandy bottom make it the best learning spot in Ireland.
Negatives & Hazards
Shifting sandbanks; occasional shallow patches for long masts.
Elly Bay
Open in Google MapsEasy sandy launch from the beach; parking is available right at the water's edge.
Sailable at all states, though it can be shallow at extreme low tide in certain areas.
If you have any insights or information to add to this spot guide, drop us a note at support@knotnow.co.uk
Wind and weather forecasts for Elly Bay are provided to help you plan your sessions. Conditions at this coastal location can change quickly, so always check the actual conditions when you arrive and trust your judgment. These forecasts are for recreational planning—always prioritize safety and verify conditions yourself before heading out. Tidal predictions for Elly Bay are based on the nearest primary station at KILLALA BAY (INISHCRONE) (61.12km away). Local conditions can vary from these predictions due to coastal topography and weather effects. Always verify tidal conditions on arrival—these predictions are for planning purposes only, not for navigational use or critical safety decisions.