TRAVEL AROUND AUSTRALIA FOR THE BEST BEACHES IN THE WORLD

Given Australia’s geographical location and miles of unspoiled coastline around the island, it’s no surprise there is an abundance of beaches perfect for surfing at every level, whether you’ve never been on a surfboard before or you’re the king/queen of the waves.

Beaches all over the country call to the adventurous with activities for everyone including the kids.  While down under, you can try out paddleboarding, kite surfing, and even swimming in the world’s largest barrier reef.  But if you’re in it for the waves, check out these hotspots for a surf vacation like no other.

Bondi Beach

A surfer’s paradise just outside Australia’s biggest city, Sydney, Bondi Beach attracts surfers of all levels who come to enjoy the perfect weather and rugged waves pounding the beach every day.  For beginners, take a class or rent a board closer to shore where the waves are less severe.

You’ll see pros further out where waves have reached up to 49 feet!  If that’s a bit too much for you, don’t worry; there are wave trackers where you can see forecasts for the upcoming week and plan the best time based on your skills.  After you’re back on dry land, walk to a beach bar and enjoy some brews with a view.

Cabarita Beach

Located in New South Wales, Cabarita Beach offers soft rolling waves and small swells that are perfect for amateurs.  Just beyond the shore are protected wetlands and a nature reserve.  This quiet coastline has little development, so you can see amazing views of the beach from far in the distance.

Several carnivals and festivals are held throughout the year, and surfers can be found year-round enjoying the crystal-clear ocean water and preserved beaches.  The nearby Tweed Shire has the only beachside hotel in the area, perfect for walking around town and grabbing some post-surf lunch or dinner.

Bells Beach

Sixty miles from the city of Melbourne, this beach offers powerful waves not for the faint of heart.  Bells Beach is the home of the famous annual Rip Curl Pro Surf and Music Festival. You may want to enjoy the views from land as experts and pros from around the world tackle huge swells with a beautiful backdrop of red clay cliffs.  Fifty years old and counting, this competition is the penultimate challenge for surfers.  When there aren’t thousands of people around, you’ll find a quiet beach community with only 130 residents.  If you’re driving down the Great Ocean Road, this is a must visit for any surfing aficionados.

Noosa

A quick drive north from Brisbane, Noosa is in the heart of Queensland and perfect for a day on the beach with the whole family.  Beginners and kids can enjoy small, but long swells where they can practice close to shore.  On your way to the beach, you might see some friendly koalas hanging out in the trees surrounding the beach.

More family-friendly activities include biking around the quaint town of Noosa Head, attending yearly events like the food and wine festival and car show, and watching the flying foxes jump from tree to tree pollinating as they go.