Portballintrae in County Antrim is a stunning coastal location, known for its consistent conditions for winging and windsurfing.
This Northern Ireland spot offers a mix of rolling swell and clean winds off the North Atlantic. The bay is protected from the prevailing South-Westerly swell, providing a unique environment for high-energy sessions in clear coastal water. The local community is expert and welcoming, with a focus on safe coastal navigation and wave riding.
N, NW (Prevailing winds that funnel cleanly into the bay)
15-22 knots for stable flight; 25 knots + for advanced wave riding.
Best at High Tide (+/- 2 hrs) for optimal depth over the rocky foreshore.
14 Day - Tide Calendar for Portballintrae →Rolling Atlantic swell (0.8m - 1.5m).
Overall
Vibe & Crowds
Vibrant and expert. A community that understands and respects the North Atlantic's power. Moderate. Popular on big forecasts, but the bay is vast enough for all.
Suitable For
Powerful swell and currents require high-level wave skills.
Negatives & Hazards
Strong coastal currents; powerful Atlantic swell; submerged rock ledges near headlands; seasonal tourists.
Portballintrae
Open in Google MapsAmple parking along the Portballintrae promenade; launch from the sandy/shingle beach.
Mixed sand and rock.
Spring and Autumn; winter gales across the North Coast provide world-class wave sessions.
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 Portballintrae 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 Portballintrae are based on the nearest primary station at OBAN (148.53km 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.