Back to grid

Best surfing destinations in Oceania

Back to grid
Gold Coast
Sun, Surf and Adventure
8.6
Since 1995, sand pumped from the Tweed River mouth has helped build the Superbank. This wave runs about 2 kilometres from Snapper Rocks to Kirra, with several barrel sections along the way. On good days over 500 surfers crowd the lineup. Paddle out early to find space.
Highlights:
  • 🌇 Climb the Q1 SkyPoint for sweeping coastal views
  • 🎢 Ride thrilling roller coasters at Warner Bros. Movie World
  • 🏄‍♂️ Surf the legendary waves at Surfers Paradise Beach
Byron Bay
Bohemian Beaches and Laid-Back Vibes
8.3
The Pass, Wategos and Cosy Corner draw surfers to this stretch of coast. Longboarders found these natural breaks in the 1960s and helped turn the town into a traveller stop. Beginners can book lessons on gentle waves. Experienced surfers chase swell near Cape Byron, where the lighthouse overlooks the lineup.
Highlights:
  • 🛶 Kayak with dolphins in the clear coastal waters
  • 🏄‍♀️ Surf the waves at Main Beach or Wategos Beach
  • 🌅 Watch sunrise at Cape Byron Lighthouse, Australia's easternmost point
Sydney
Where urban life meets stunning beaches
8.7
The Manly-Freshwater World Surfing Reserve covers 4 kilometres of coast. Kelly Slater dedicated it in 2012. Duke Kahanamoku showed surfing at Freshwater in the 1910s. Manly Life Saving Club formed in 1904. City beaches here offer waves within easy reach of ferries, cafes and the downtown skyline.
Highlights:
  • 🏖️ Relax on the golden sands of Bondi Beach
  • 🎭 Admire the Sydney Opera House from Circular Quay
  • 🌉 Climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge for panoramic views
Fiji
Tropical paradise with diverse landscapes
8.2
Warm water rolls over coral reefs off Tavarua island. Cloudbreak, about a mile offshore, is a powerful left that many surfers rank among the world's best waves. The island has seven main breaks, so skill levels are covered. Boats carry surfers out to the lineup each morning.
Highlights:
  • 🐠 Explore the underwater coral gardens at Rainbow Reef
  • 🏖️ Relax on the pristine sands of Natadola Beach
  • 🌊 Snorkel in the crystal-clear waters of the Mamanuca Islands
French Polynesia
Paradise of Crystal Clear Lagoons
8.9
The village of Teahupo'o on Tahiti's southeast coast hosted Olympic surfing in 2024. Its name loosely means place of skulls. The wave breaks over a reef only about 20 inches below the surface. It closes out over dry coral, so only experts should paddle out.
Highlights:
  • 🐠 Snorkel the coral gardens of Moorea’s turquoise lagoon
  • 🤿 Dive with sharks and manta rays in Rangiroa
  • 🏝️ Stay in an overwater bungalow above the Bora Bora lagoon
North Island
Geothermal Wonders and Māori Culture
8.6
Raglan's left-hand point breaks include Manu Bay, Whale Bay and Indicators. Indicators runs up to 600 metres, more than six American football fields. Manu Bay appeared in the 1966 film The Endless Summer. Together these waves make Raglan, on the Waikato coast, a long-ride favourite.
Highlights:
  • 🌃 Walk along Auckland’s Sky Tower observation deck
  • 🧙‍♂️ Visit Hobbiton and stroll through the Shire movie set
  • 🔥 Explore the geothermal wonders of Rotorua’s hot springs and geysers
Victoria
Diverse Landscapes and Cultural Richness
8.3
The Rip Curl Pro at Bells Beach began in January 1962. It is called the world's longest continuously running pro surfing competition. It takes place at Easter. Bells lies 5 kilometres southwest of Torquay on the Great Ocean Road. Nearby Winkipop often works better in varied conditions.
Highlights:
  • 🛍️ Explore the vibrant Queen Victoria Market with local produce and crafts
  • 🚗 Drive along the spectacular Great Ocean Road to see the 12 Apostles
  • 🌺 Visit the Royal Botanic Gardens for lush landscapes and exotic plants
Margaret River
Coastal charm meets world‑class wineries
8.8
Competitors and fans gather each April at Surfers Point in Prevelly for the Margaret River Pro, held since 1985. In 2018 shark attacks moved later rounds to Uluwatu in Indonesia. Powerful Indian Ocean swells roll towards Western Australia. Watch the forecast and the water closely.
Highlights:
  • 🎨 Discover ancient rock art at Wave Rock
  • 🦭 Spot humpback whales during migration season
  • 🐠 Explore Ningaloo Reef's vibrant coral gardens
Feedback