Beach you to it

1. For surfing

Lahinch, Co Clare

he west coast of Ireland bears the brunt of some of the Atlantic Ocean’s most terrific swells. As a result, its beaches are a Mecca for surfers. Lahinch—a mile-long, sandy crescent—is regarded as one of the best. There’s a strong current, so beginners should book a lesson with Lahinch Surf School (). More experienced surfers should head for the wild and windswept Aran Islands, just off the same coastline. The best breaks tend to be off the rocks and are not