Known as the birthplace of Australian surfing since the Hawaiian King, Duke Kahanamoku, brought his board and caught a wave at Freshwater Beach, Australia has long been a legendary surfing destination. Now, not only is surfing a national pastime for Australians, but an integral part of the lifestyle of the nation.
Sydney is home to more than 100 beaches, which makes it a veritable surfer’s paradise. Regardless of your experience level, you are sure to find the perfect spot to catch some waves while visiting Sydney. We have some tips and tricks to help you choose the best spot and hit the water.
What To Know Before Heading Out
Don’t bring your own board
Unless you are a pro, if you are visiting from the surrounding countryside or abroad, it’s a better idea to rent a board from one of the many surf shops dotted throughout the city. If you are planning on spending a longer amount of time in the Sydney metropolitan area, consider buying a used board locally and selling it again before you leave.
Visit during the downtime
Sydney is home to more than 5 million people, and a fair amount of them are surfers, so going at the right time of day or week is key to enjoying waves without being overcrowded. Going early in the morning on the weekends, or during the week while the rest of the city is working, will give you the best choice of hitting the waves with some room to breathe. Going to less crowded beaches away from the centre of town will also help you enjoy some beautiful surf with the added benefits of fewer crowds.
Now that you are adequately prepared, let’s dive into some of the best beaches you can find in Sydney.
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Surfing Conditions and Safety
Best Time of Year for Surfing
The best time to surf in Sydney largely depends on your skill level and what kind of waves you are after. For beginners, the summer months from December to February are perfect. The waves are smaller, and the water is warmer, making it an ideal time to learn the ropes of Sydney surfing. If you are an experienced surfer looking for a challenge, the winter months from June to August bring bigger swells and more powerful waves. The shoulder seasons, from March to May and September to November, offer a happy medium with consistent waves and mild weather, suitable for surfers of all levels. So, whether you are a novice or a seasoned pro, there’s a perfect time for you to hit the Sydney surf beaches.
Staying Safe at Sydney Beaches
Sydney’s beaches are stunning but can be hazardous, especially for inexperienced surfers. It’s crucial to stay informed about the surf conditions, including rip currents, strong waves, and sharp rocks. Always check the surf forecast and heed any warning signs before entering the water. Stick to patrolled beaches and never surf alone. Be honest about your abilities and avoid taking unnecessary risks. If you find yourself caught in a rip current, stay calm and swim parallel to the shore until you are out of the current. Safety should always be your top priority when enjoying Sydney’s surf beaches.
Surfing for All Experience Levels
Beginner-Friendly Beaches
Sydney is a haven for surfers of all levels, and there are plenty of beaches that are perfect for beginners. Here are some top picks:
- Manly Beach: This world-famous beach offers consistent waves that are ideal for learning to surf. With numerous surf schools and rental shops, it’s a great place to start your surfing journey.
- Maroubra Beach: Known for its long, sandy stretch and gentle waves, Maroubra Beach is perfect for beginners. It’s less crowded than some of the more famous beaches, giving you plenty of space to practise.
- Cronulla Beach: A popular spot for surfers of all levels, Cronulla Beach offers a variety of waves and a lively atmosphere. It’s a great place to learn and improve your skills.
- Palm Beach: This picturesque beach on Sydney’s northern beaches is ideal for beginners and intermediate surfers. The gentle waves and stunning scenery make it a favourite spot for many.
- Bondi Beach: One of the most famous beaches in the world, Bondi Beach offers consistent waves suitable for all levels, including beginners. With plenty of surf schools and rental shops, it’s a fantastic place to start surfing.
These beaches not only offer gentle waves but also have surf schools and rental shops, making them perfect for those new to the sport. Always remember to take lessons from a qualified instructor and prioritise safety in the water.
Best Surfing Beaches In Sydney
Bondi Beach
Bondi Beach is one of the most famous beaches in the world for its long, crescent-shaped bank of golden sands, its party atmosphere, and its central location in the heart of Sydney, so it’s appropriately busy most of the year.
This beautiful beach offers a variety of different amenities, such as beachfront apartments to rent, board rental kiosks and stores, as well as plenty of surf instructors if you are just starting out.
If you are more on the novice side, start on the North side of the beach, as the Ben Buckler Headland protects the area and subsequently gets smaller waves. If you are ready for a bigger challenge, you can head to the middle of the beach where you will be able to catch bigger swells.
Manly Beach
Manly Beach is just a 30-minute ferry ride away from Circular Quay across Sydney Harbour, which makes it a very attractive location for the majority of Sydney. The southern end of Manly Beach is the ideal ‘learn to surf’ location, and many pros have cut their teeth on the blue waves. Many businesses have popped up that cater to the visitors looking to surf, with equipment rentals and surf lessons available, and excellent seafood and cafes all around.
The rest of the beach is split into three other quarters, North Steyne, South Steyne, and Queenscliffe. The other spots are more suited for surfers spread out from the intermediate all the way up to the expert. You might even see a pro or two surfing around!
Maroubra Beach
Maroubra in Aboriginal culture is believed to mean “like thunder”. As its name implies, Maroubra Beach is known for its challenging conditions, making it suitable for experienced surfers. We recommend it for only those that would deem themselves intermediate and above.
Only ten kilometres southeast of Sydney Central Business District, this location enjoys much less crowded beaches than some other spots, while also boasting massive barrels. The North Side is definitely not for the faint of heart, only the most talented surfers are suggested to try and tackle the big swell. If you are looking for some surf that’s more low-key, stick to the south side that’s more protected, and has smaller waves as a result.
In 2006, Maroubra Beach became Australia’s first National Surfing Reserve, so if you decide to stop by, be sure to look at the commemorative plaque, along with the surfer’s walk of fame. Maroubra Beach is recognized in the national surfing reserve register for its significance.
Beware, there are no surf shops here, so you need to come prepared with your own board if you want to brave these waves.
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Stay At Bondi 38 For Your Surfing Adventure
At Bondi 38, our beachfront serviced apartments are an amazing option for any holiday vacation trip to enjoy the surfing available in the Emerald City.
The heart of Sydney and all the local attractions are just a few steps away from your cosy personal home away from home. Bondi 38 is an amazing location for any length of stay, and we offer luxury with an unparalleled location.
With our beachfront apartments, you can start your day with a dip in the ocean. Are you ready for your Surfing adventure?
