Experience the excitement of stand up paddleboarding (SUP) with expert lessons and scenic tours at Sligo Bay SUP, an ASI-accredited SUP school located in Sligo on Ireland’s stunning west coast—just a 2 hour and 45 minute drive from Dublin.

Sligo Bay SUP is owned and operated by Niall Harte, a seasoned waterman with over 20 years of surfing experience along Ireland’s wild west coast.

After discovering stand up paddleboarding in 2009, Niall launched the SUP school in 2015 to share his passion and help others in the Sligo area embrace water sports. It has become one of the premier SUP schools in the region.

Niall is a fully certified ASI Level 1 and Level 2 SUP Instructor, qualified to teach in both Enclosed Flat Water and Exposed Waters environments. He also holds advanced water rescue and first aid certifications, along with an international water safety licence for personal watercraft rescue in high surf conditions.

Together with his team of accredited instructors, Niall brings deep local knowledge and a warm welcome to every session. Whether you're paddling out or planning your stay, they’re always happy to recommend other great activities and hidden gems around Sligo.

Sligo Bay SUP offers group and private SUP lessons, SUP tours exploring the local sights and fitness workouts, as well as rentals.

They also specialise in:

• Couples and families - A great fun experience for couples and families.
  

• Hens and stags - Great fun and suitable for everyone.

• Schools and Youth Organisations. Universities, Schools and GAISCE adventures.
  

• Corporate days out - Tailored Stand Up Paddleboarding session/s to achieve your objectives.
  

• Birthday parties and reunions - Celebrate your birthday or have a reunion to remember on the water.

SUP sessions are held at Doorly Park on the Garavogue River.   Located just a short walk from Sligo town, it is the perfect escape.  The river offers calm waters, surrounded by greenery and is a haven for birds and other wildlife.  

SUP sessions are also held at nearby Lissadell Beach.  A sandy beach with calm protected waters and amazing scenery.  Paddle with Benbulben Mountain rising in the background and catch glimpses of the historic Lissadell House, once home to the Gore-Booth family and visited by W.B. Yeats.

While on the water, participants often encounter local wildlife such as seals, dolphins, and even basking sharks.

Depending on the water and weather conditions, stand up paddling is offered at other locations, so you can enjoy your paddling at any time, explore standstone cliffs, freshwater lakes and hidden coves.

Sligo is a popular destination for outdoor recreation and is steeped in history. 

The area surrounding Sligo town is steeped in history, with over 5,000 archaeological sites, including the vast megalithic grave complex at Carrowkeel, one of Ireland’s most significant prehistoric landmarks.

To the west, Knocknarea Mountain rises dramatically above the landscape, crowned by the legendary cairn of Miosgan Maeve, said to be the burial place of the mythical Queen Maeve. This iconic peak dominates the skyline and offers panoramic views for paddlers.

Doorly Park – Riverside Nature & Local Heritage.   Located just a short walk from Sligo town centre, Doorly Park offers a peaceful escape into nature along the Garavogue River.

Visitors can enjoy walking and cycling trails, explore wetlands and native woodlands, and follow a nature trail rich with seasonal wildflowers and birdlife. The restored Gate Lodge Café and Tourist Information Centre provides a welcoming spot for refreshments and local insights.

Doorly Park is ideal for family outings, picnics, and wildlife spotting, and serves as a gateway to Sligo’s vibrant mix of urban charm and natural beauty.

Lissadell Beach – Coastal Beauty & Cultural Legacy  Nearby Lissadell Beach is a serene stretch of fine sand backed by dunes and dramatic coastal views.

It’s perfect for open water swimming, sea kayaking, and SUP tours, with gentle waves and shallow waters that make it family-friendly.

The beach is adjacent to the historic Lissadell House, a neo-classical estate once home to Constance Markievicz and Eva Gore-Booth. Visitors can tour the house, stroll through its restored gardens, and enjoy the tearoom and art gallery housed in the old coach stables.

Nature lovers will appreciate the nearby Ballygilgan Nature Reserve, while culture seekers can explore the literary and political history tied to the estate.

The area also attracts weekend campers and foodies looking for quiet coastal charm and local flavours.