π₯ With over 300 days of sunshine annually and some of the most consistent waves on the east coast, the area around Brisbane is an absolute surfing paradise! Iβve spent the last five years chasing waves from the Snapper Rocks to the Sunshine Coast, and I reckon itβs time I shared my stash. Grab your board, weβre going for a surf!
1οΈβ£ Snapper Rocks
π Coolangatta | β±οΈ 2-4 hours
This is the big kahuna, mate. Known as the ‘Superbank’, it offers one of the longest waves in the world. You can get rides over a kilometre long if the sand banks are lined up right. It gets crowded, but for good reasonβitβs absolutely world-class.
2οΈβ£ Kirra Point
π Coolangatta | β±οΈ 2-4 hours
A personal favourite of mine. When the swell direction is right, Kirra produces these beautiful, hollow barrels that are just magic. Itβs a bit faster than Snapper and requires a bit more skill, but the crowd factor is usually slightly better. A bloody ripper of a wave!
3οΈβ£ Burleigh Heads
π Burleigh Heads | β±οΈ 2-4 hours
If you want a vibe, go to Burleigh. Itβs got that perfect mix of high-performance surf and a cool community atmosphere. The wave wraps around the point offering long walls perfect for carving. Great for watching the pros while youβre waiting for your turn.
4οΈβ£ Cylinders
π Noosa National Park | β±οΈ 1-2 hours
Okay, this one is a bit of a trek north but absolutely worth it. Located in the Noosa National Park, the scenery is unreal. The wave breaks over a shallow rock shelf and is super fun and rippable. Watch out for the rocks if you wipe out!
5οΈβ£ D’bah (Durbanbah)
π Tweed Heads | β±οΈ 2-3 hours
D’bah is the ultimate wave magnet. When everywhere else is closing out or too small, D’bah usually has something going on. It handles bigger swells really well and offers a powerful left and right. Best suited to intermediate to advanced surfers.
6οΈβ£ Currumbin Alley
π Currumbin | β±οΈ 2-3 hours
On smaller days, the Alley is my go-to. Itβs a super fun, long right-hander that peels perfectly into the creek. Great for longboarders or just mellowing out. Plus, the rock pools at Currumbin are awesome for a post-surf dip.
7οΈβ£ Stradbroke Island – Point Lookout
π North Stradbroke Island | β±οΈ 2-4 hours
A ferry ride away is the legendary ‘Straddie’. Cylinder Beach offers a nice protected break for beginners, while the main beach at Point Lookout pumps out some serious waves for the experienced crew. Make a day of it!
8οΈβ£ Kingscliff
π Kingscliff | β±οΈ 1-2 hours
Just across the border in NSW, Kingscliff is a bit of a hidden gem compared to its Coolangatta neighbours. Itβs a beach break that can get really hollow and fun. Less crowded generally, which is always a win in my book.
9οΈβ£ Alexandra Headland
π Maroochydore | β±οΈ 2-3 hours
If you’re heading up the Sunshine Coast, ‘Alex’ is a solid choice. Itβs a reliable point break that picks up plenty of swell. Thereβs a nice grassy area to watch the surf from, perfect for a picnic with the family afterwards.
π Miami
π Gold Coast | β±οΈ 2-3 hours
Miami is heaps good for a cruisy session. Itβs usually a bit more chilled out than the heavy point breaks nearby. Great for intermediate surfers wanting to practise turns without getting smashed. Plus, the cafes nearby are top-notch for a brekkie.
β¨ Coolum Beach
π Coolum Beach | β±οΈ 1-2 hours
A nice beach break that works best on mid to low tide. Itβs got a real community feel and isn’t as intense as some of the super-competitive spots. Perfect for a dawn patrol before grabbing a coffee in town.
β¨ Caloundra – Moffat Beach
π Caloundra | β±οΈ 1-2 hours
Moffat offers a bit of protection from the northerly winds, making it a great option when the coast is blown out. Itβs a right hand point break that can get pretty fun. Good spot if you want to escape the Gold Coast crowds.
β¨ Main Beach – Noosa
π Noosa Heads | β±οΈ 1-2 hours
While the points get all the glory, Main Beach is fantastic for learning and longboarding. The waves are gentle and forgiving, and the water is crystal clear. Hire a board across the road and just enjoy the stoke!
β¨ Surfers Paradise
π Surfers Paradise | β±οΈ 1-2 hours
Yeah, itβs touristy, but donβt knock it till you try it. The beach break can be surprisingly fun, especially in the early morning before the crowds wake up. Easy access and plenty of amenities make it super convenient.
β¨ Bribie Island – Woorim
π Woorim Beach | β±οΈ 1-2 hours
A bit closer to Brisbane, Woorim on the ocean side of Bribie Island offers reliable beachies. It can get a bit choppy with the wind, but on a good day, youβll find some fun little peaks. Great for a quick after-work splash if you live north side.
π‘ Tips & Warnings
β
Check the surf report (Swellnet or Coastalwatch) before you drive to make sure you’re hitting the right spot for the conditions.
β
Respect the localsβdon’t drop in and wait your turn in the lineup, especially at crowded spots like Snapper.
β Don’t leave valuables in your car, especially at isolated beach car parks.
β οΈ Watch out for marine life! We share the water with sharks, rays, and jellyfish, especially in the warmer months.
π Agree with my ranking? Let me know your top pick! π
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