The Gold Coast is one of the most popular tourist spots in Australia. With beautiful cities and even better beaches and water, it brings in hundreds of thousands of swimmers and surfers from across the country.
If you have never visited the Gold Coast before, you may not know the best swimming and surf spots. Here are the best locations on the GC to catch a few waves.
What Makes the Gold Coast Great for Surfing?
There are a few reasons why the Gold Coast is so popular for swimming and surfing, but there are two big ones. The entire coast has some of the best weather and warmest water throughout most of the year, and there is always at least one spot that gets some of the best waves in the world.
What to Remember
Before you head out for a surf or a swim, there are a few things you should remember to ensure you have the best possible time besides snacks, your vape starter kit, and of course, maybe a few friends.
Know Your Experience Level
Some spots along the coast are definitely more suited to more experienced swimmers and surfers; it is important to do your research and find out which spots are like this, as the riptides can be dangerous for inexperienced surfers and swimmers.
When to Surf
There is never really a bad time to surf the Gold Coast; however, there are times in the year that are simply better. The months between November and July are the best for surfing, with February being the prime month.
Surfing Gear
When it comes to gear, you can take either a short or long board, and a swimming costume or boardshorts will do the trick. However, during the colder months, it is best to opt for a wetsuit as the warm waters would have quickly cooled.
For swimmers, a bodyboard will be a fun thing to take along as you will encounter a lot of relatively calm surf that is ideal for bodyboarding.
Main Beach
The first spot you should hit up is Main Beach. Located right on the northern tip of the Gold Coast, Main Beached is famed for its onshore breaks, making it particularly popular with surfers; however, it isn’t the best for less experienced swimmers and surfers.
The riptides can be quite strong, and even though the beach is patrolled, inexperienced swimmers should opt for a different spot.
South Stradbroke Island
“Straddie”, as it is affectionately known, is arguably one of the best surf spots in all of Australia. Not only is it a swell magnet, but it also has A-frame waves, two components that create an amazing surf spot.
Even though you have to travel to the island by boat, once you reach it, you will be met with an idyllic slice of paradise that is hard to match no matter where you are in the world.
Burleigh Point
Burleigh Point has been a popular surf and swimming spot for many years now. The waves lend themselves to both novice and expert surfers, making it the prime spot for everything from a calm paddle to a full-on surf.
The waves are also split in a fairly helpful way, with more experienced surfers being able to drop in from the rocks and novices being able to paddle out to the calmer waves from the beach.
Surfers Paradise
There is probably no spot more famous in Australia than Surfers Paradise. Surfers is not one of the most ideal spots for a swim and a surf, but it is located right near all the best attractions the area has to offer.
Considering it looks like a slice of California in the heart of the Gold Coast, whether you want a relaxing day in the sun or you want to tear it up on the waves, Surfers Paradise has it all.
Tallebudgera Creek
Tallebudger Creek has something for everyone and is a place where you can easily lose yourself and spend the entire day there. With both swimming
Rainbow Bay Beach
Rainbow Bay Beach, located in southern Queensland, is the perfect spot for avid surfers and families alike. Glorious beaches are matched by equally incredible water; the spot also features one of Australia’s longest and most reliable point breaks.
Rainbow Bay also has restaurants and bars all around it, ensuring you can have a full day of fun in the sun and end it off with a delicious meal while you watch the sunset.
Currumbin Alley
If you are a beginner surfer or swimmer or want somewhere to take your young kids to learn, then Currumbin Alley is the place to be. Not only is the area absolutely stunning, but the calm and mellow waves make it ideal for inexperienced and young surfers and swimmers alike.
Duranbah Beach
Another spot that is for the most experienced surfer or swimmer is D-bah beach. Featuring both left and right-hand waves, the spot doesn’t have the most consistent swell, but when it’s there, you will have an incredible time.
