So you’re considering learning how to surf but not sure where to start?
Australia is the place! We’re not bias either, it’s a matter of fact that the land down under is the perfect country to get into this awesome hobby! Here’s 5 reasons why:
1. Geography – Australia’s East Coast is an anomaly when it comes to beginner surfing waves. The entire coastline is full of gentle, long peeling breaks, ideal for learning how to pop up, with minimal consequence and maximising your stand up time. Many other learn to surf destinations have less than ideal wave breaks that can either be littered with rocks underneath the water or reef which is easy to cut yourself on.
2. Safety – Most of the surf breaks are sand bottom, not rock or reef. This means if you fall off there’s little chance of serious injury (unless you fall on your head which is unlikely.) While there are some dangerous marine creatures in parts of Australia they are generally nowhere near the good beginner surf spots. Poisonous marine creatures are found in more tropical northern waters and large sharks are highly unlikely to come into the shallows of the surf breaks.
3. Surfing Instructors – Australia has some of the best surfing instructors in the world. The country has many legal requirements and protocols to follow in order to become a surfing instructor. So you know you’re in safe hands when booking in a lesson. There is several regulators monitoring surfing instructors in Australia to ensure no ‘Bootleg’ instructors without the correct training legally teach in a monetary exchange environment. Also if you look at the best surfers in the world on the WSL, they are usually coached by Australians.
4. Seasons – While many other learn to surf destinations have designated seasons Australia has beginner friendly waves all year round. Europe’s good surf season is generally during the winter months and apart from the obvious cold temperatures making it less desirable to surf, the thick wetsuits can make it difficult to stand up especially if you’re a beginner. Summer, while nicer temperature-wise has less consistent swells generating. Australia’s East Coast has consistent waves year-round and has a more inviting water temperature (21.5 degrees centigrade on average on the Gold Coast).
5. Crowds – Australian’s are regarded as some of the friendliest most laid back people in the world. The vibe in the water is usually very chilled. There is some spots that can be very busy especially during competition periods like the WSL when the professionals are training. But there is plenty of relaxed spots it’s just a matter of finding them. Australian’s are also very respectful when it comes to lineups. Many of the beaches even have signs explaining the rules and etiquette of surfing. Many other countries can be very chaotic in the water with unqualified instructors often pushing their customers into waves of consequence with little regard for others. This can result in serious injury and confrontations in the water.
So if you are looking to get started in surfing, Australia is the perfect place. There are many great individual instructors operating all around the country. The Australian Surf Bus is a great way to explore the best surf spots with top local instructors. This Surf Camp Australia on wheels is runs twice a week leaving from either Brisbane or Sydney.
Hit the booking tab to lock in your spot on this East Coast Australia Surf Tour!
