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9 of the Best beaches to learn how to surf in Australia

We’ll share the perfect beaches to learn how to surf in Australia, because where could be better to catch a wave for the first time?
North Point

Australia is renowned for its fantastic coastline and beautiful beaches.

Where better to catch a wave for the first time? We’ll share the perfect beaches to learn how to surf around Australia. 

Surfer standing on surfboard
Surfing waves – The laid back Aussie lifestyle ©Joseph Greve

Noosa Main Beach – Noosa Heads

Noosa Heads in Queensland is known for its stunningly beautiful coastline connected to Noosa River Mouth. The clear turquoise waters and mellow swells of Noosa Main Beach make it a great beach for beginners. First Point at Noosa Main Beach is one of the most accessible spots close to the main commercial hub to delve into the waves. 

Learn how to surf - Splash in the waves or hop on a board
Splash in the waves or hop on a board – Summer fun!

Mooloolaba Beach – Sunshine Coast

The sandbars stretch long at Mooloolaba Beach, with no rips, making this a perfect location to learn in the whitewater. This safe, sheltered beach by the Sunshine Coast has great small waves for introducing kids and beginners to surfing. 

Action shot ©Vladimir Kudinov
Action shot ©Vladimir Kudinov

Turners Beach – Yamba

South of Byron Bay, Yamba is similarly home to laid back vibes by lovely waters. Yamba has a number of beaches to choose from, but Turners Beach is one of the best to learn how to surf. Its gentle swells at the ends of the beach and multiple surf schools and board hires to choose from makes it an ideal destination when you’re looking to beat the crowds.

Dawn till Dusk - Manly Beach is the place to shred some waves.
Dawn till Dusk – Manly Beach is the place to shred some waves. ©Ivan Tsaregorodtsev

Manly Beach – Manly

Protected from winds and dangerous currents, the ever-popular and dazzling Manly Beach is also one of the easiest spots around Sydney to learn surfing. Surf operators are in no shortage at Manly, and it also has some of the best shops and restaurants to lounge in after your surf lesson. 

Front Beach.
Front Beach with the family. ©Delphine Ducaruge

Front Beach – Torquay

Also known as Cosy Corner, Front Beach in the surf town of Torquay, Victoria is a great spot for families. Small, safe waves make Front Beach a sheltered location for kids and those who’ve just picked up a board. 

Wild and Free - Carving waves with the board
Wild and Free – Carving waves with the board ©Ryan Magsino

Smiths Beach – Phillip Island

Phillip Island is a popular day trip or long weekend getaway for those in Melbourne and also offers some prime beaches for surfing. Smiths Beach has the easy spilling soft waves for beginners to look out for, making it the place you want to go to stand on your board for the first time.

White wash
White wash ©Josh Withers

Park Beach – Hobart

Close to the capital town of Hobart, Park Beach in Tasmania is a sheltered surf spot with small waves and many fellow beginner surf-goers. Head out to this beach on a sunny day to learn how to ride a wave. 

Hang five - Nose-riding
Hang five – Nose-riding ©Knut Robinson

Goolwa Beach – Middleton

Middleton’s gentle rolling waves makes it a popular destination for beginner surfers hailing from Adelaide. It has one of the broadest sandbars in Australia for a whitewater wave that can send you straight back to the beach and even last over a minute. 

Trigg Beach – Perth

Trigg Beach, along with the famous Scarborough Beach, brings crowds to their plentiful sandbars and great conditions for beginners learning to handle a board in the water. Known for having the most consistent surf break around, Trigg Beach and its gorgeous waters are sure to dazzle you with a wonderful time. 

Travel around Australia

Looking for your next adventure! For more inspiration you might like this The best beaches and waterways on the Gold Coast

Rex flies within Australia. Book your tickets Here and check out the route map below.

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