Best places to learn to surf in Australia

If you’re looking for the best places to learn to surf in Australia, you’re in luck. Awesome beginner surf beaches abound in almost every state, and we’ll help you pinpoint the best places to start your surfing journey. Need some surf lessons? No worries. You’ll find experienced surf schools and board rentals near all the hot beginner spots.

But with so many fantastic beaches and breaks for beginner surfers, it can be difficult to pick just one. 
Fortunately, we’ve done the hard work for you by researching different surf spots and talking to local surfing communities around the country.  Read our tips and tricks below and find out all about the best places to learn to surf in Australia.

Gold Coast, Queensland

Ahhh the Gold Coast. With a place called Surfers Paradise, no wonder this is one of the best surf spots in the country. And with warm water, blue skies and subtropical vibes, this is also one of the best places for budding surfers in Australia.

Without a doubt, the best surf beaches for beginners are Currumbin Alley and Rainbow Bay with their gentle waves and easy access. But Burleigh Heads, especially Kid’s Corner in front of the Burleigh Pavilion, also attracts beginner surfers, depending on conditions.

If you want to learn to surf on the Gold Coast, consider booking a session with Get Wet Surf School, the region's top surf school. If you prefer going solo, explore surfboard rental options at Gold Coast Surfboard Hire for a seamless surfing experience.

Where to stay: YHA Coolangatta

Perth, Western Australia

While the east coast dominates this list, Perth, on the west coast, offers beginner-friendly surf beaches like Cottesloe and Scarborough. These two beginner beaches rarely receive waves over waist-high thanks to Rottnest Island, which typically blocks the bigger swells – providing ideal conditions for beginner surfers.

For surf lessons, check out Go Surf Perth. Otherwise, you can grab an easy-to-use longboard from Soul Boardstore and enjoy crystal-clear waves in one of the most stunning beachside cities in the world.

If you’re headed to the Margaret River, the best beginner surf spots are Redgate Beach, especially in the summer, as well as the Margaret River Mouth.

Nearby stay: YHA Fremantle Prison

Cronulla, New South Wales

You might think that Bondi Beach is the best place to learn to surf in Sydney, but there are other great beginner surf beaches in Sydney, too.

Cronulla Beach is way less crowded than Bondi (which means it’s safer), with waves that are perfect for beginner surfers. And when you’re ready to tackle something a little more challenging, there are plenty of other surf spots nearby.

Start by booking a session with Cronulla Surfing Academy if you want to try surfing in Sydney with a crew of certified surf coaches. They offer tailored lessons and provide all the necessary equipment. They also promise to take you from a whitewash warrior to a proper surfer in no time at all.

Melbourne, Victoria

Melbourne is one of Australia’s most incredible cities, but did you know that you can also learn to surf nearby? It’s true! The beaches of Point Addis in Anglesea and Cosy Corner in Torquay are popular for those who want to learn to surf near Melbourne. You’ll need to drive roughly 1–1.5 hours south, but it’s well worth the trip to ride these sheltered and consistent breaks.

As for surf schools, we recommend Torquay Surfing Academy on the iconic Surf Coast. For a more intensive learn-to-surf experience, Honi Honi Surf Camp offers two-day to six-week surf schools on the Great Ocean Road.

Of course, if you don’t mind substituting the rugged beauty of Mother Nature with the man-made predictability of an artificial wave pool, you could also book a session at Urbnsurf in the city.

Surfing all day in the city then heading out for a celebratory post-session drink with friends at an awesome bar? That sounds like a pretty good day to us!

Noosa, Queensland

Noosa, on the beautiful Sunshine Coast, is one of the best places to learn to surf in Queensland. Not only does it boast gorgeous golden beaches, but beginners will be spoiled for choice when it comes to easy waves.

From the gorgeous Main Beach to nearby Little Cove, these safe and beginner-friendly surf spots are perfect if you want to learn to surf in Noosa. However, if you’ve surfed a handful of times before, you’ll be pleased to know that Golden Breed Noosa can help with board hire and hot tips for the best waves.

One of the best surf schools in Noosa is Merrick’s Noosa Learn to Surf. Run by real surfers for keen learners, they promise to have you standing up during your first session.

Sydney, New South Wales

Sydney is one the best surf cities in the world. With an abundance of sun-splashed Sydney beaches to choose from, you’re only ever a short trip to a great beginner spot with easy surf.

Besides Cronulla, the best beginner surf beaches in Sydney include Manly, Dee Why and Kiddies Corner at Palm Beach.

As for the best surf school in Sydney, Manly Surf Guide offers a range of affordable surf lessons,with group, private, half- and full-day sessions available. Reserve a spot today or find the perfect board for your skill level with Manly Surf Hire - from softboards to mini Mals and cruisy longboards.

Where to stay: YHA Sydney Harbour | YHA Sydney Central

Newcastle, New South Wales

Situated only a couple of hours’ drive up the M1 from Sydney, Newcastle is a charming city with great waves, fantastic pubs and friendly locals.

The best beaches for learners are Nobbys and Merewether – both of which get the nod for being some of the safest beaches in Australia. They offer beginner-friendly waves and plenty of space to paddle out. Lifeguards also patrol almost year-round. What’s more, you can learn to surf in Newcastle with the experienced team at Newcastle Surf School.

Where to stay: YHA Newcastle Beach

Byron Bay, New South Wales

The trendy coastal town of Byron Bay is famous for its amazing coffee spots, eclectic people and great novice surf beaches such as Wategos Beach. It also offers a glimpse into the Aussie surfing revolution of the 1960s. During that era, many young surfers ditched the city vibes and hit the Aussie coast for some chill waves without the crowds.  In short, Byron Bay is a cool place to visit if you’re interested in the Aussie surf scene.

Start your Byron Bay surfing adventure  by booking a lesson with Let’s Go Surfing Byron. This award-winning team offers refresher courses for intermediate surfers or sessions for first-time wave riders. If you’re looking for surfboard hire in Byron Bay, check out Boards in the Bay.

Where to stay: YHA Byron Bay | YHA Cape Byron

Crescent Head, New South Wales

Crescent Head, also known as ‘Cresso’ by the locals, on the north coast of New South Wales, is known for killer waves and a laid-back vibe with a vintage Aussie beach town feel. The point break here is perfect for beginners when the waves are gentle — especially during the summer months.

For surf lessons in Crescent Head, hit up On Point Surf School. Their expert instructors will have you shredding like a pro in no time. Need gear? They can help you with that, too.

After ripping up the waves, head to the Crescent Head Tavern for some cold beers and hearty Aussie pub grub.

Updated by: K. Hastings

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