It’s no surprise that the Gold Coast is world-renowned for its great surfing conditions. With 70 kilometres of beaches, some of the most consistent waves in Australia and 245 days of sunshine each year, the region is perfect for anyone looking to catch great waves. The beaches are also heavily patrolled all year round by professional lifeguards, and it’s not rare to see some of the best surfers in town, such as Kelly Slater or Mick Fanning.
So whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, keep reading to learn about all the hot spots in the area – especially now that the Australian Surf Festival is coming up!
Burleigh Heads
Burleigh Heads offers a one-of-a-kind point break, not to mention some of the more consistent waves and long swells on the Gold Coast, perfect for long rides. The point attracts crowds of surfers, from pros to beginners – there’s even a kid’s corner, where it’s perfectly safe to try if you’ve never been on a board before.
In addition, the beach offers a range of private lessons with none other than professional surfer Michael Barry himself. If you don’t feel like a private lesson, you can always grab a mini mal from the Board Shed and try it for yourself! Once you’re done in the water, there’s plenty of cafes and social spots to relax and grab a bite.
Currumbin Alley
Affectionately known as The Alley, Currumbin is one of the most famous breaks on the Gold Coast. Located just five minutes drive from Coolangatta Airport, it’s popularity is due to its consistent, world-class waves and a right-hand point break. Professional and advanced surfers enjoy Currumbin, however the area is perfectly suitable for beginners and is highly learner-friendly, with lots of whitewash waves on the inside protected by the south onshore winds.
Greenmount
Located in between two of the world’s most well-known and popular breaks, Snapper and Kirra, Greenmount is perfect for beginners who already feel a bit more comfortable on the board. Here, you’ll be able to find gentle and longer rides and waves that curl through the headland. It is also a stunningly beautiful spot, featuring crystal clear turquoise waters.
Known as one of the most accessible beaches on the Coast, Greenmount forms the eastern end of Coolangatta Beach and is perfectly situated directly opposite the stores, restaurants and entertainment areas of Marine Parade.
Rainbow Bay
Patrolled all year round and with a huge sheltered area, Rainbow Bay is popular amongst beginners and families. The bay has three points that, on good days, can create one of the longest right-handers in the world. There are plenty of lessons available for both beginners and family.
But not everything is about taking it to the seas – Rainbow Bay also offers a gorgeous and scenic coastal walk, which can provide magnificent views along the coast. You can even see Humpback Whales from May until November!
Duranbah Beach
Duranbah Beach, or “D-bah” by the locals, is one of the most popular surfing spots in the Gold Coast area, even if it’s technically in New South Wales. The beach offers quite consistent waves and surf, and hosts a number of international and professional competitions. It’s perfect for intermediate surfers, but there’s also challenges for the pro surfers to master – such as solid barrels and great left and right-hand waves.
The Spit
The Spit is the perfect spot for learners, located in the northern end of the Gold Coast. Featuring a jetty and a rock wall, it’s also a beautiful spot to rejuvenate and breathe in the coastal air. And because it’s so exposed to swell from all directions, The Spit gets pretty decent waves most days, all year round.
Snapper Rocks
Snapper Rocks is actually an area also known as the Superbank, comprised by Kirra, Rainbow Bay and Duranbah – which are considered the three best spots for surfing in the Gold Coast and home to the annual Quicksilver Pro. Kirra in particular is perfect and more suitable for avid surfers, as the breaks can produce heavy and hollow barrels that are only recommended for the most experienced surfers.
Tugun
A classically overlooked spot, Tugun is actually perfect if you’re after smaller, clean waves – especially on a good day of southwest wind. It’s ideal to work on your board and paddling skills, plus, it’s usually pretty empty, which is always a massive plus when trying to find a surfing spot on the Gold Coast. Also, no need to worry about running anyone over. The trick is just getting there before the winds affect the beach too much but generally, it can be great spot to get to the beach and catch some waves.
Enjoy the day and night
The Gold Coast is well-known for its famous coastline and amazing beaches – however, there are some that are better than others when it comes to surfing. So before you go and venture into a great wave-catching session, it’s always a good idea to get some inside knowledge about which spots will make the cut!
We hope this guide can send you on the right path and that you have time to check out all of the amazing surfing spots that made the list. And after a long day of sun and sand, join us for a drink at the Cooly Hotel and enjoy the sunset over the water while you kick back to some live music.
