Where to Surf on the Sunshine Coast
If you’re serious about catching some quality waves, then Australia’s famous Sunshine Coast is a can’t-miss. Surfers from all over the world gather here to carve up some of the best waves offered anywhere. More than 126 surf spots offer ideal conditions for any level of board rider, from first-timers to pros.
No matter what your experience level, it’s important to respect the rules of the waves, for the purposes of both etiquette and safety:
Surf Smart: For your own safety, know your ability and choose a beach or cove that matches your experience level. Not until you’ve mastered one level are you ready for the next. It is also important to be aware of the prominent dangers which may exist in a particular area, such as rocks and sharks. And, of course, employing the buddy system is always a wise idea.
Surf Considerately: Being considerate to your fellow surfers is important for both their safety and yours. Respect the rules; wait for your turn and give way to the rider on your right. Be conscientious of swimmers, as well.
Here are a few top picks for surfers of every level along the Sunshine Coast:
Beginner
Noosa Main Beach: This is a beach break with waves ranging from 2 to 6 feet from both the right and the left. As the sole north facing beach, it is sheltered from wind and absolutely perfect for beginners.
Possible hazards include riptides and swimmers.
Mooloolaba, Coolum & Noosa Corners: Choose your area wisely, as there are spots here which are quite suitable for beginners, but also some spots for more experienced surfers. These waves range, on average, between 3 and 6 feet with typically short runs. The corners are generally protected areas and, as such, are relatively calm and well suited to beginners.
Possible hazards include rocks, riptides and sharks.
Beginner/Intermediate
Little Cove: Great for beginners moving toward intermediate, this point break features larger waves coming from the right. Runs are typically short with waves ranging anywhere from 2 to 6 feet.
Possible hazards in include rocks.
Experienced
Double Island Point: Teewah Beach and Rainbow Beach make up the dual surf areas of Double Island Point, one on each side. This is a point break featuring the longest wave break on the entire Sunshine Coast, with waves ranging from 3 feet all the way to 16 feet and very long runs in excess of 500 meters on a really good day.
Possible hazards include rocks, riptides and sharks.
Old Woman Island: A reef break, which offers its best surfing when the right and left waves are in the 3 to 5 foot range, Old Woman Island is most easily and safely accessed by boat.
Possible hazards include sharks.
Expert
Old Woman Ledge: For pros, kamikazes and crazy #&*@’s only! This rocky-reef, world class ride boasts fast, powerful runs with hollow waves up to 10 feet. The rush is great but the dangers are many.
Possible hazards include rocks, coral, riptides, sharks and sea urchins.
No matter what your experience level, you will enjoy the world’s best surfing on the Sunshine Coast of Queensland, Australia. So, wax your board and grab a wave: Surf’s up!
