Surfing

By Joe Collins // 14 January 2010

Where is all began

Surfing is a word that is synonymous with Australian culture, conjuring images of late nights, early morning, sun kissed skin, and salt laden hair. Sydney's Cronulla Beach is where surfing all began in Australia. Byron Bay has been a mecca for surfers since the 1960s and Coolangatta on the Southern Gold Coast is home to the World Famous Quiksilver Pro.

Surf school, surf tours and hiring surf gear

Sydney and surrounds have a number of surf schools, Lets Go Surfing at Bondi and Manly Surf School are the best known - most with lesson deals for travellers. While surf tours such as Surfcamp and Waves Surf School are also popular, usually running from Sydney to Melbourne, Sydney to Byron or Byron to Brisbane during the summer. 

The instructors most definitely do their job well, with almost everyone standing on boards and catching waves within an hour on the first afternoon.  A surf trip/camp will also usually involve some rest and relaxation. After a successful day in the water you can kick back and relax. With a trip to a local pub or to the campsite for an evening of good music, good food, and great company.

To Aussies, surfing is almost as important as beer at a barbie. If you're new to surfing, it's especially important to learn a bit of surf etiquette before hitting the waves. Here's a few tips to keep you out of trouble and having a good time.

• Always swim between the flags
• Always surf outside the flags in designated surfcraft areas
• Don't drop in on or cut off another surfers
• Always look left and right before getting a wave
• Offer waves to other surfers
• Smile

Location information and surf sites in Australia

For surf operators Australia-wide use the search tool top left this page.  Search Tours by location or key word.

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