Surfing in Queensland: Best 17 Spots to Ride the Waves [UPDATED]
Quick Rundown of the List
Want to go surfing in Queensland? Below is a quick overview of the 17 Queensland surf destinations that feature in this post.
Table of Contents
1. Introduction
2. Gold Coast
3. Noosa Heads
4. Sunshine Beach
5. Agnes Water and Seventeen Seventy
6. Stradbroke Island
7. Greenmount Beach, Coolangatta
8. Duranbah Beach
9. Rainbow Beach
10. The Spit, Gold Coast
11. Alexandra Headland
12. Maroochydore Beach
13. Teewah Beach
14. Double Island Point
15. Lamberts Beach, Mackay
16. Magnetic Island, Townsville
17. Surfers Paradise
18. Bilinga Beach
17. Broadbeach
18. Great Barrier Reef
19. Tips For Surfing in Queensland
20. Final Thought
Please read till the end to discover further information about these Queensland surf spots destinations.
Introduction
Queensland boasts a coastline that stretches for over 7,000 kilometres, adorned with pristine beaches, world-class waves and a surfing culture as vibrant as the ocean.
From the renowned breaks of the Gold Coast to the hidden gems of the Great Barrier Reef, Queensland offers a surfing paradise like no other. Whether you’re a seasoned pro looking to conquer epic barrels or a novice eager to catch your first wave, this article will be your guide to the 17 best spots for surfing in Queensland.
So, get ready to explore the sun-soaked shores, paddle out into the warm waters, and ride the waves of adventure in this captivating coastal wonderland.
Gold Coast
Ideal for: All levels
The Gold Coast is arguably the most famous spot for surfing in Queensland. Known for its long sandy beaches and consistent waves, it’s a haven for surfers of all skill levels.
The region boasts numerous world-class breaks, including Snapper Rocks, Burleigh Heads and Kirra. Snapper Rocks, in particular, is a favourite among professional surfers and hosts the annual Quiksilver Pro event.
Aside from surfing, the Gold Coast offers a vibrant nightlife, excellent dining options, and various family-friendly attractions like theme parks and wildlife sanctuaries.
Noosa Heads
Ideal for: Beginner to intermediate
Over on the Sunshine Coast, Noosa Heads is a picturesque town known for its national park and relaxed atmosphere.
The main beach at Noosa is great for beginners, with small, consistent waves that make it ideal for learning. For more experienced surfers, the nearby First Point and Little Cove offer more challenging breaks.
In addition to having one of the best spots for surfing in Queensland, Noosa offers fantastic hiking trails in Noosa National Park and a trendy shopping and dining scene along Hastings Street.
Sunshine Beach
Ideal for: Intermediate to advanced
Sunshine Beach, situated just to the south of Noosa, offers a more challenging experience for surfing in Queensland as compared to its illustrious neighbour.
This beach is known for its powerful waves, which are particularly appealing to intermediate and advanced surfers. If you’re up for the challenge, Sunshine Beach can provide exhilarating rides and a chance to test your skills.
After a day of surfing, explore the nearby Noosa National Park or relax at the local cafes and bars.
Agnes Water and Seventeen Seventy
Ideal for: All levels
The towns of Agnes Water and Seventeen Seventy, located on the southern tip of the Great Barrier Reef, are remote gems for surfers.
Agnes Water’s Main Beach offers gentle waves suitable for beginners and longboarding, while nearby spots like Agnes Water Point and Chinaman’s Beach cater to more experienced surfers.
Beyond surfing, you can explore the breathtaking landscapes of the area, including the nearby Larc tours and the stunning viewpoints at Bustard Head Lighthouse.
Stradbroke Island
Ideal for: All levels
Stradbroke Island, or ‘Straddie’ as locals call it, is a short ferry ride from Brisbane and offers a laid-back island experience with excellent conditions for surfing in Queensland.
Point Lookout, Cylinder Beach, and Main Beach are popular surf spots for all skill levels. The island’s consistent swell and diverse breaks make it an ideal destination year-round.
While on Stradbroke Island, you can also explore its natural beauty, including the North Gorge Walk and the pristine Blue Lake. The island’s friendly atmosphere and local surf culture make it a must-visit for any surfer.
Greenmount Beach, Coolangatta
Ideal for: All levels
Greenmount Beach, located at the southern end of the Gold Coast, offers excellent waves and surfing in Queensland for protagonists of all levels. The right-hand point break here provides long rides and a friendly atmosphere, making it a great place for beginners to get comfortable in the lineup.
Coolangatta, the neighbouring town, is known for its relaxed vibe, beautiful beaches and the annual Quiksilver and Roxy Pro surfing events.
Duranbah Beach
Ideal for: Advanced
Just a short drive from Coolangatta, Duranbah Beach is known for some of the heaviest and most powerful waves for surfing in Queensland. It’s a favourite spot among advanced and professional surfers looking for challenging conditions. The waves at Duranbah can reach impressive heights, providing an adrenaline rush for those who dare to ride them.
When you’re not surfing, explore the nearby Tweed Coast in NSW or visit the Tweed Regional Gallery for a dose of culture.
Rainbow Beach
Ideal for: Intermediate to advanced
Located near Fraser Island, Rainbow Beach offers consistent waves, making it a great destination for those looking to improve their skills whilst surfing in Queensland.
The beach provides both left and right-hand breaks, with the Double Island Point being particularly popular. It’s also a prime spot for longboarding.
Overall, Rainbow Beach is not just about surfing; it’s a gateway to the stunning Fraser Island, known for its unique natural beauty and abundant wildlife.
The Spit, Gold Coast
Ideal for: All levels
The Spit, Gold Coast, is a coastal paradise that epitomises the quintessential Australian surf culture.
This stretch of golden sand, situated at the northern end of the renowned Gold Coast, boasts a range of surf breaks suitable for surfers of all levels, making it an ideal destination for surfing in Queensland for both beginners and seasoned wave riders.
With its consistent beach breaks and inviting atmosphere, The Spit offers the perfect setting for those looking to improve their skills or enjoy a relaxed surf day. Beyond the waves, this area is teeming with attractions, including the nearby Sea World, Broadwater Parklands, and an array of waterfront dining options.
Overall, with its mix of surf, sun and leisure, the Spit embodies the laid-back coastal lifestyle that the Gold Coast is famous for.
Alexandra Headland
Ideal for: All levels
Alexandra Headland, located on the Sunshine Coast, offers a mix of breaks suitable for surfers of all levels. The beach break is excellent for beginners, while the outer banks cater to more experienced surfers seeking larger swells.
Overall, it’s a beautiful, family-friendly destination with some of the best conditions for surfing in Queensland accommodation options and a long stretch of sand to walk on that leads all the way up to Maroochydore Beach.
Whilst at Alexandra Headland Beach, take the opportunity to explore the nearby Mooloolaba Esplanade for dining and shopping, or hike up to the Alexandra Headland viewpoint for panoramic views of the coastline.
Maroochydore Beach
Ideal for: All levels
Maroochydore Beach, also on the Sunshine Coast, is known for its consistent waves and welcoming surf community – much of which revolves around the Maroochy Surf Club.
The beach break here is suitable for surfers of all levels, making Maroochydore Beach an excellent spot for surfing in Queensland for families and beginners. It’s also a great place to take surf lessons if you’re new to the sport, with several schools in the area.
When you’re not surfing, explore the Maroochy River, visit the Sunshine Plaza, or relax at the nearby Cotton Tree Park.
Teewah Beach
Ideal for: Intermediate to advanced
Teewah Beach, part of the Cooloola Recreation Area, is a remote and stunning location for surfing in Queensland – predominantly for experienced surfers.
The beach offers challenging waves and a sense of isolation that’s hard to find elsewhere. Accessible by 4WD vehicles only, it provides a unique surfing experience away from the crowds. The waves here can be powerful and hollow, making it an ideal spot for those seeking an adrenaline rush.
Teewah Beach is also surrounded by the Great Sandy National Park, offering opportunities for bushwalking, camping, and exploring the beautiful natural landscapes of the area.
Double Island Point
Ideal for: Intermediate to advanced
Double Island Point, a hidden gem on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast, is a surfer’s paradise that exudes tranquillity and natural beauty.
Accessible only by a scenic 4WD adventure, this remote spot for surfing in Queensland offers a unique experience for those in search of long, uncrowded rides. The sandy point break at Double Island Point consistently produces some of the longest waves in the region, making it a haven for both intermediate and advanced surfers.
Surrounded by the beauty of the Great Sandy National Park and featuring the iconic Double Island Point Lighthouse as a backdrop, this pristine destination is a surfing haven and a place to reconnect with nature and savour the simple pleasures of a day spent in the waves.
Surfers Paradise
Ideal for: All levels
Surfers Paradise, aptly named, is an iconic destination on Queensland’s Gold Coast that perfectly captures the essence of sun, surf, and leisure.
This bustling coastal hub is renowned for its long, sandy beaches and consistent waves, making it a magnet for surfers of all levels wanting to go surfing in Queensland.
While the surf is undeniably a major draw, Surfers Paradise offers much more than just epic waves. It boasts a vibrant and lively atmosphere, with a thriving nightlife, world-class shopping along Cavill Avenue, and an abundance of dining options showcasing a diverse range of cuisines. Families can enjoy the nearby theme parks, while those seeking relaxation can bask in the sun or take leisurely strolls along the picturesque esplanade.
Overall, Surfers Paradise truly embodies the quintessential Australian beach lifestyle, and it’s a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the coastal charms of the Gold Coast.
Bilinga Beach
Ideal for: All levels
Bilinga Beach, located just south of Coolangatta, is well known on the Gold Coast surf scene for its consistent waves and laid-back atmosphere.
It’s a great spot for surfing in Queensland for beginners looking to hone their skills and for more experienced surfers seeking a peaceful break away from the crowds.
While in the area, explore the scenic coastline and enjoy the tranquillity of Bilinga Beach.
Broadbeach
Ideal for: All levels
Broadbeach, nestled between Surfers Paradise and Mermaid Beach on the Gold Coast, is another fantastic destination for surfing in Queensland.
This area offers consistent waves that are perfect for surfers of all levels. The beach breaks at Broadbeach provide long rides and a friendly atmosphere, making it a great place for beginners to get comfortable in the lineup.
After riding the waves, enjoy the nearby shopping precincts, restaurants and the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre.
Great Barrier Reef
Surfing in the Great Barrier Reef is a unique and exhilarating experience that combines the thrill of riding waves with the breathtaking beauty of one of the world’s most iconic natural wonders.
While the reef is primarily renowned for its coral formations and marine life, it also offers a few lesser-known surf breaks that cater to the adventurous surfer seeking an escape from the crowds when surfing in Queensland.
Imagine paddling out over crystal-clear waters, surrounded by vibrant coral formations and an abundance of marine species, before catching a wave that carries you along the fringing reefs.
While surfing in the Great Barrier Reef requires careful planning due to its protected status and sensitivity to human activity, the opportunity to ride waves in this stunning, remote setting is an experience that few surfers will never forget.
Tips For Surfing in Queensland
Before surfing in Queensland, here are some essential tips to ensure a safe and enjoyable surfing experience:
1. Check the Surf Forecast: Always check the surf forecast before heading out. Websites and apps like Surfline, Magicseaweed and Swellnet provide up-to-date information on wave conditions.
2. Respect Local Rules: Each surf spot may have its own set of rules and etiquette. Familiarize yourself with these rules and respect the local surfers and environment.
3. Safety First: Safety should be your top priority. Use appropriate surfboards and wear the right protective gear, including a leash and sunscreen.
4. Know Your Limits: Don’t push yourself too hard, especially in challenging conditions. Knowing your skill level and choosing spots that match your abilities is essential.
5. Be Environmentally Conscious: Protect the beautiful coastal environment by disposing of your trash properly and respecting local wildlife and marine life.
6. Learn from Locals: Don’t hesitate to strike up conversations with local surfers. They can provide valuable insights into the best times to surf and hidden gems.
7. Take Surf Lessons: If you’re new to surfing, consider taking lessons from certified instructors. They can teach you the basics and help you develop good habits.
Final Thought
Queensland offers a diverse range of surfing experiences, from gentle breaks perfect for beginners to challenging waves that will test even the most experienced surfers.
Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both, the best spots for surfing in Queensland have something to offer everyone.
So grab your board, wax it up, and get ready to ride the waves in this surfer’s paradise on the east coast of Australia.
