E TO D I U G A G N I F R U S
IN IA L A R T AUS
Australia is one of the best countries in the world to slip into your swimmies, grab a board, and head out to catch some waves. World famous for the quality of the surf, the beauty of the beaches and the skills of the surfers; Australia is well and truly synonymous with surfing. The sport actually originated here. Although Captain James Cook recorded himself observing the sport back in the 1770’s, according to aboriginal history, the custom goes back hundreds of years. And boy, is it still going strong. Whether you’re a seasoned surfing expert looking for challenging waves and the thrill of the chase, or you’re more excited by learning a new sport and enjoying the great weather, pristine coastline and friendly nature of the locals – Australia has something to offer you.
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CES A L P T BES TO GO
It should come as no surprise that Australia is, in fact, a fairly large country. Surrounded by the Pacific and Indian oceans, Australia is the sixth largest country in the world. It encompasses large stretches of desert, snow capped mountains and is a continent all in itself. So, if you’re looking to surf on part of its 25,760 km long coastline – it’s best to know where to go for the experience you desire.
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NORTH COAST
The North Coast is arguably the best area of the country to surf in – it’s even known as ‘The Surfing Coast’. It has some of the world’s most iconic beaches and boasts the most accessible surfing areas in Australia – a great place to start if you’re looking to really throw yourself into the surfing culture.
TOP
SPOTS
Newcastle Avoca
Crescent Head
Byron Bay
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SOUTH COAST
The South coast of Australia is famous for wine, Aussie football and the laid back lifestyle – but did you know surfing is hugely popular in this area too? There are plenty of places to enjoy waves for both novices and more experienced surfers. Plus, if you’re looking to punctuate days on the waves with nights drinking wine or spending time with the family – this is the place to go.
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SPOTS
Corny Point
Innes National Park Fleurieu Kangaroo Island Day Head National Surfing Reserve
Eyre Peninsula
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EAST COAST
East Australia is home of Bondi, Balmoral and most of the Australian population. Here you’ll get to experience the glamour of Australian city life and the fun of accessible surf beaches. Most of the surfing spots in the area are around Sydney, being the Australian city with the highest population, but travel a little further afield and there are plenty of less crowded beaches to explore.
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SPOTS
Bondi beach
Manly beaches
Coogee Ned’s Beach Slaughter Bay
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WEST COAST
Western Australia is for the true adventure seekers, and we’d recommend only seasoned surfers apply! This area is wild, with few roads, almost no towns and very little access to provisions or water – you’ll almost certainly need to get your hands on a four-wheel drive if you’re looking to explore here. But one thing there is, is some of the world’s most challenging and beautiful waves. Travel to North of Albany and you will experience reliably large waves – 2.5 metres is a gentle day in the Margaret River area. If you head down to the South West, it’s here that some of the largest ever recorded waves have broken.
Geraldton
TOP
SPOTS
Kalbarri Cottesloe
Perth Scarborough Margaret River
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E M I T T S BE TO GO
Summer Surfing Summer tends to be less consistent for surfing in Australia, however the occasional cyclone can do amazing things for swell! The summer season stretches from December to February. Winter Surfing Winter waves can be rough in all areas of Australia and you might want to hire a wetsuit! In some places the temperature can drop fairly low. Plan your surf trip for between February and June for reliable waves and warm weather.
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AL C O L E TH LINGO
Local Lingo Whether you’re taking a class or just high-fiving other surfers on the beach, you’re going to want to know a bit of the local slang! • AMPED Excited
• BUMMER What a shame
• AWESOME Great!
• DUDE A male surfer
• BAIL OUT To decide not to catch a wave at the last minute
• GNARLY Dangerous
• BONZAI A friendly yell shouted by surfers as they ride the wave • BEACHED To be full after eating • BOGUS Lame or false
• HODAD A non-surfer who spends time at the beach • POUNDER A hard breaking wave • SHRED To surf aggressively
• WIPE OUT To fall or be knocked off your board
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HIRING NT E M P I EQU
Almost every popular surfing beach you visit will have a location or school nearby where you can book surfing lessons, rent equipment and often stop by for a chat to discuss the surfing outlook for the day! The locals are always the experts, so follow the advice of a surf instructor or shop owner on the best equipment to get for a particular area and where to go for your skill level.