Surfing is one of Australia’s most popular pastimes and has bred some of the world’s best wave riders including Mark Richards, Mark Occhilupo and Layne Beachley. Perhaps inspired by these surfing greats or by the warmer weather, it is common to see people flock to the beach to learn how to catch a wave in the lead up to Christmas. This can lead to overcrowding at many of Australia’s more popular beaches such as Bondi and Coolangatta; and can be frustrating for the seasoned riders who’s waves keep getting dropped in by inexperienced grommets.
CC by Aristocrats-hat
So where can you find great surf with the freedom to ride without the threat of ripping into someone elses wave? Here are seven little known breaks that all surfers should consider.
Whitehaven Island, QLD
When scouting for the best, secluded surf locations, you can’t go past sun-kissed Queensland. One of the most picturesque areas in Australia is Whitehaven Beach, on the Great Barrier Reef. Usually renowned for its amazingly white sandy beaches rather than its waves, this secluded spot on uninhabited Whitehaven Island offers some smallish peelers along the sand bar deposits after a strong north east wind cycle.
Fraser Island, QLD
Home to one of the longest beaches on the planet, Fraser Island is one spot where you can surf all day without seeing another soul. The massive 75-Mile will have you feeling like you’re the only one enjoying it – especially considering that most tourists never actually go in the water and are part of organised tour groups. The area gets plenty of swell and is suitable for most surfing levels.
Agnes Water, QLD
The other best-kept secret area to check out in Queensland is Springs Beach. Located south of a pretty seaside town called Agnes Water, on the Discovery Coast, this beach is surrounded by National Park and is one of the most northerly beaches on the east coast to regularly receive the Tasman Sea swell. Springs Beach meets the Coral Sea and provides brilliant surf breaks with a picturesque view.
Ningaloo Reef, WA
If Western Australia is on the itinerary then don’t go past the majestic Turquoise Bay in Ningaloo Reef. Ningaloo Reef was home to the Billabong Super Challenge events in the mid-90s but today it is a secluded and pristine surf spot with some awesome breaks to enjoy. Keep an eye out for the many sea creatures that call the area home, and perhaps even spot a whale or two during the winter months.
Lucky Bay, WA
Also in Western Australia is the aptly named Lucky Bay, situated a 40-minute drive from Esperance. Although it’s only a 5km stretch of beach this spot provides excellent seclusion and fantastic (although sometimes violent) breaks. Surfer reviews indicate that you’re always likely to “get lucky” with great surf at this private bay.
Bruny Island, TAS
Outside of Queensland and Western Australia, you’ll also find some great secluded surfing spots in Tasmania and NSW. In Tassie, head to breathtaking Bruny Island for some of the state’s best surf. The Neck, Cloudy Bay and Coal Point are some of the great breaks the Island, and if you’re in the area in February then make sure your visit coincides with the annual Bruny Island Surf Classic, one of only four state championship competitions. Bruny Island is also home to an abundance of wildlife, including fairy penguins and fur seals, so take some extra time for animal spotting while you’re there.
Cave Beach, NSW
If Jarvis Bay is too crowded for you, then there is always Cave Beach situated in Booderee National Park. This secluded surf spot is owned by the Wreck Bay Aboriginal Community and was listed by Australian Geographic as one of the best secluded beach camping areas in Australia. It is a perfect place to set up shop with a campervan and to relax for a few nights.
Speaking of accommodation, if you’re planning an affordable surfing road trip over the Christmas holidays and want to check out the most secluded surfing spots in the country, then one of the best ways to travel and keep your costs to a minimum is to hire a campervan. Indeed, the perfect opportunity to save funds is through hiring a campervan, such as the fully-equipped options from Mighty Campers. Ideal for mates or backpackers travelling together, the campervans allow you to stay each night at an ideal surf spot and be up at the crack of dawn and on the water without wasting any time travelling to and from locations.
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