So you’d like to surf in Australia but not sure about the marine creatures lurking in its waters; here’s our advice.
It’s no secret Australia is home to some of the best surf-able waves in the world. It’s stunning coastlines are littered with an abundance of perfect peeling point breaks, barrelling beach breaks and rigid heavy reef slabs. While this lucky country is spoilt for choice when it comes to surf spots, it’s also home to some of the most dangerous marine life.
Here’s our top five marine creatures to avoid while surfing in Australia and where they are usually found.
5. Seals and Sea Lions
Australia is home to 10 species of Seals and Sea Lions. While not all of these underwater mammals are dangerous, it is advised to stay at least 30 metres away from them. They might look like the labradors of the ocean, but they can pack a nasty nip. Seals and Sea Lions are found in colder waters off Australia. Most commonly found off Southern New South Wales, Victoria, Tasmania, South Australia and Western Australia. On the very rare occasion seals have been seen in Southern Queensland Waters too. Australia’s Seal population is still in recovery after they were hunted to near extinction for their fur during the 1800s.
4. Jellyfish
Australia is home to thousands of different jellyfish species, however there are only three main ones of concern to surfers. The most common is the bluebottle also known as the Portuguese man o’ war (named after its resemblance to the boat; The Caravel). These small blue jellyfish can be found all around Australia and can pack a punchy sting using a venom in their tentacles that wrap around their prey. They are not deadly to humans however can be cause for concern if a victim has an allergic reaction. Other species of jellyfish to be aware of are Box Jellyfish and Irukandji. These species are extremely dangerous however found more commonly in Northern Australia where there is less waves. If surfing these waters and you are stung, seek immediate medical advice.
3. Stingrays
Stingrays are in abundance down under. There is around 500 different species found within its waters. While they are not typically aggressive it’s their defensive mechanism that can be dangerous. Stingrays have a large barb on their tail which they can use to pierce skin when they feel threatened. Surfers can be stung while walking out to the lineup. While this is typically rare it’s not unheard of. Stingrays also prefer to stay clear of larger animals such as humans so encounters are almost always accidental or due to low visibility murky waters. If you are stung by a stingray it is advised you seek immediate medical attention.
2. Crocodiles
Crocodiles are arguably the most dangerous animal found in Australia in water or on land, however being cold blooded reptiles they are only found in the warmer waters of Northern Australia and incidents are rare. There is a community of brave (or desperate) surfers in places such as Darwin, Mackay and Broome which can provide low quality beach breaks and novelty waves during Cyclone season. While there has been several fishermen attacked over the years in Northern Australia and one Kite Surfer, there has been no record of a surfer falling victim to these ancient predators.
1. Sharks
Unsurprisingly, sharks are the number one animal we advise you avoid while surfing in Australia. Of the 400 shark species found world-wide 180 of them can be found in Australian waters. Perhaps this is a sign of the health of the eco-systems in Australia. While deadly shark encounters are extremely rare in Australia, there’s no point in sugarcoating that it still can happen! There was nine unprovoked shark bite encounters in Australia in 2024. There is 3 main types of sharks species of concern in Australia; The Great White Shark which is found in colder waters of South Australia, New South Wales, Tasmania and Western Australia but have also been seen off deepwater in Queensland. Bullsharks can be aggressive but their most interesting trait is that they can be found in fresh and saltwater. They can be found all around Australia . Tiger sharks are the third species to be aware of, they can be found in most commonly in Northern Australia, New South Wales and Western Australia.
Funnily enough Australia’s deadliest animal is a horse, accounting for more than 170 deaths last year closely followed by cows. In light of this, our advice is not to let the stigma of the marine life in Australia hold you back from surfing as it really isn’t that much of a threat especially if you’re learning and staying in the shallows. By jumping on one of our epic Australian Surf Camp trips, our instructors will keep you safe and explain to how to avoid bumping into our beautiful marine life, so you can enjoy it rather than fear it.
Check out our next East Coast Australia Surf Trip departure dates to get involved and learn more!
