ABOUT US
Since its establishment in 1998 as the first dedicated surf school in county Mayo, SURFMAYO has sustained its reputation as one of Ireland’s leading surf schools for over two decades. In summer 2018, local surfer Charles O’ Malley took on the SURFMAYO business and runs it with his colleague Elvis Beetham, who has been an integral part of the SURFMAYO team since he moved to Louisburgh in 2007.
As an Irish Surfing Association (ISA) approved surf school, SURFMAYO caters for all ages and abilities in surfing. We have some of Ireland’s finest surf coaches, all of whom are fully trained lifeguards and highly experienced, passionate surfers. SURFMAYO is the only ISA accredited surf school in the Louisburgh and Westport area in county Mayo. We have attained this accreditation yearly since 1998, and it ensures that all our surf instructors are fully qualified and trained to deliver a safe and enjoyable surf lesson, as well as offering equipment of a high standard.
Whether you are a complete beginner, improver or advanced surfer, we offer professional surf coaching and equipment to suit your needs. We also offer sessions for groups, families, friends, school tours, sports clubs, stags and hens, any age; you are all welcome to taste the ultimate surfing experience on the beautiful West coast of Ireland.
Our surf school is open 7 days a week, 12 months of the year, surf conditions permitting. We are set up along the Wild Atlantic Way at Carrowniskey Strand, Louisburgh, Co. Mayo.
Our Team
Elvis Beetham
About: Elvis grew up in Cornwall, UK and he learnt to surf in the mid 80’s on his local beaches in north Cornwall.
Surfing Since: 1985
History with SURFMAYO: After numerous surf trips to Ireland commencing in the mid 90’s to the early 00’s, Elvis permanently moved to Louisburgh in 2007 and has been an integral part of the SURFMAYO team since then.
Highlights: Elvis has surfed in many countries ranging from Scotland, Wales, and England to Sri Lanka & Morocco. Through working with community groups and schools in the UK, Elvis has developed skills in communication and empowering individuals and groups to overcome the challenges that are all part of learning to surf.
Charles O’ Malley
About: Charles grew up locally in Murrisk village at the foot of Croagh Patrick, had his first surf lesson as a kid with SURFMAYO way back in 1999 and has been devoted to surfing ever since.
Surfing Since: 1999
History with SURFMAYO: As a student he life-guarded & taught surfing with SURFMAYO on Carrowniskey Strand for over 14+ years.
Highlights: Charles has worked, traveled and surfed all over the world in places such as Indonesia, New Zealand, Australia, Hawaii, South America and Europe. In 2018 Charles returned to his home roots in Mayo after working office life for a number of years as an engineer to take on a new venture to run SURFMAYO with Elvis Beetham. Charles is dedicated to sharing the joy and excitement of surfing that he has been so lucky to enjoy over the last 24+ years through providing all SURFMAYO customers with the best surfing experience possible.