Our Story
It was started in 2019 by Declan O Connor.
Declan and the rest of the instructors have a huge passion for surf and Gaelic so we will include both in all our Lessons. If you have a cúpla focal, please use them with us. Our main aim in Tonn Nua Surf School is to encourage anyone of any age, and ability both locals and tourist alike, to use the waves that Mayo has to offer and embrace the sport of surfing that we love!!
The surf school is based at Glosh beach near Eachleim, Black Sod. The area of Black Sod is one of the most amazing and rugged places you will ever visit. Glosh beach is practically unspoilt and has perfect, unobstructed views on the Inis Gé islands. With a huge help from locals, Tonn Nua surf school has been able to run a few beaches cleans to help keep the beach and its surrounding dunes free from waste. If you would like to help out keep an eye on our Facebook and Instagram for upcoming events.
Our Team
Declan O Connor
Declan is from Kerry in the South West of Ireland and has been surfing since he was 10. After moving to County Mayo in 2012 he has devoted all his time and effort into surfing this part of Ireland's Rugged Coast. He has been teaching surf full time in Mayo and around the world since 2012.
Geimhreadh
Geimhreadh (pronounced: giv-ra) joined the Tonn Nua team from Mayo SPCA in October 2019 and has become a great assett to the surf school. She will happily join in on the surf lessons and beach activies, especially if it includes fetch!
Dara
Dara is from Dublin and learnt to surf after moving to Erris as a kid. Surfing took Dara around the world to places like Indonesia and Morroco but nothing beats a quality day in Erris. Dara has been teaching surfing here on the peninsula since 2018 and is delighted to see people enjoying the world class waves here.
Surf Lessons
What our
clients have to say
Testimonials
My daughters really enjoyed the personal tuition they got from Declan and Daire. The cupla fhocail was an added bonus. They said it was better than the lessons they got elsewhere in Ireland.
Oilbhe
Family had a fantastic surf lesson with Declan last Friday in Glosh! Kids 14,12 & 7 thoroughly enjoyed the experience- the highlight of the weekend (we were told) and the adults concur!! Would highly recommend Declan & his surf school.
Mary
Daniel went to the surf camp twice this summer & a group of us went for a lesson today. We thoroughly enjoyed every minute of it even though the weather wasn't great this morning. But we figured we'd be wet anyway & to just go for it! Declan is a fantastic instructor, so patient with everyone & good fun. Would highly recommend Declan & Tonn Nua. We will definitely be back!
Caroline
Great fun for all ages, my family had a group booking ranging from 3 to 30's and they all had a great time. all the children wanted to go again the following day and are still asking when they can go back, which will be very soon. thank you
Annette
If you love the sea do not leave Belmullet without booking a lesson or 2 with Declan. My boys are 10 and 8 and had never surfed before. After 1 session they were hooked. Declan is fantastic and I will be going back anytime we are in Mayo. Fantastic and highly recommend.
Kris