Australia is one of the greatest countries on the planet, and from beautiful cities to dynamic landscapes, tourists flock from all over the world to experience the wonders of this spectacular nation. Also renowned as one of the world’s premier places to surf, Australia benefits from over 37,000 miles of stunning coastline and crystal-clear waters. Whether you’re a beginner or a more advanced surfer, there are countless swells for everyone, allowing you to surf in confidence. Let’s take a look at some of the best spots to surf in Australia.
Angourie to Byron Bay – North Coast
During the late 1960s, the surfing culture overtook Australia, and by the 1980s, the North Coast was undoubtedly the promised land for surfers all over the country. Anyone with an alternative lifestyle and a surf board flocked to the shoreline between Angourie and Byron Bay, with the surf spot previously untouched by the commercialisation of the major cities.
Even now the point break has remained flawless, and continues to be associated with surfing legend Nat Young. If you’ve ever heard of Lennox Head, then you’ve been formally introduced to Australia’s best wave, and from Tallow Beach to the Byron Bay Coast, the collective feeling that surrounds this stretch of shore is unrivalled throughout Australia.
Noosa
Noosa is one of the most photogenic and stunning breaks in the world, and on a variety of occasions has produced over 200 meter rides. Even the most average swell brings out the local suffers in their hundreds, so don’t be overwhelmed if the shoreline looks a little busy. Noosa is a great spot to have a surf lesson or two, and with a sea of bars lookout out onto the beach, you’ll be able to take a break with a cocktail if you’re not up to the waves.
Seal Rocks and Pacific Palms
Known all over Australia for generating epic waves, the Treachery Beach and Lighthouse Beach at Seal Rocks are a surfer’s paradise. Only 20km from the famous Pacific Palms, these beaches have been blessed with their own dynamic and energetic waves.
Humbled by a few cheeky weekly visits from dolphins, surfers can enjoy great swell and huge waves on a spectacular sunset backdrop. Furthermore, there’s not a club, bar or casino is sight, which makes the Seal Rocks and Pacific Palms one of the most secluded beaches in all of Australia.
Northern Beaches
Running 20km from Manly Beach to Palm Beach, offering a selection of surf unmatched by any other city, Sydney’s northern peninsula is one of the most special environments on earth. From punchy barrels to playful beach breaks, Manly itself is a joy for big wave riders.
Moving onto Freshwater Beach, this is a great place if you’re a beginner surfer, with instructors lining the shore and small to light-medium waves. This is also the place where surfboard-riding was first introduced to Australia by Duke
Kahanamoku in 1915!
Continuing 6km down the coast, Dee Why Beach is Sydney’s blue-ribbon hotspot. Known locally as the ‘butter-box’, waves are strong and its notoriously difficult to stay on your board. You should only consider Dee Why Beach if you’re a skilled surfer however, so make your way onto Mona Vale Beach if you’re looking for something a little less testing.