If you’ve ever experienced the beauty of a sunrise over the Pacific Ocean while sitting on your board, waiting for the perfect set to roll in, you’ll know that there’s nothing quite like surfing on the Gold Coast. For surfers, this stretch of Australian coastline is the stuff of dreams. With its warm waters, consistent swells, and a variety of surf breaks for all skill levels, the Gold Coast has earned its reputation as a world-class surfing destination.
But as any dedicated surfer will tell you, the lure of the next wave is never far from our minds. While the Gold Coast offers some of the best surfing conditions in Australia, the call of international surf spots can be hard to resist. From the legendary breaks of Bali to hidden gems in Mexico, the world is full of incredible places to surf. This article will dive into what it’s like to be a surfer on the Gold Coast and highlight some must-visit surf destinations around the globe, including how you can score a beachfront villa in Bali to top off the experience.
Surfing on the Gold Coast
The Gold Coast is a surfer’s paradise, offering waves for everyone—from beginners catching their first ride to seasoned pros carving up barrels. Whether you’re paddling out at one of the famous surf breaks or exploring lesser-known spots, this area has something for every surf enthusiast.
1. Snapper Rocks
No mention of Gold Coast surfing is complete without Snapper Rocks. As part of the world-renowned Superbank, Snapper Rocks consistently produces some of the longest and most thrilling rides in the country. If you’re looking to experience the magic of a long ride through multiple sections, Snapper is the place to be. This break is especially good during the southern hemisphere’s summer months when cyclone swells can produce epic conditions.
The only catch? It gets crowded, and with good reason. Everyone wants a piece of the Superbank. To avoid the peak crowds, head out early, just as the sun begins to rise. There’s nothing quite like catching the first set of the day with only a handful of other surfers in the water.
2. Burleigh Heads
Burleigh Heads offers something for everyone, making it a favourite among local surfers. The right-hand point break here is legendary, particularly during the winter months when south-easterly swells bring in powerful waves. When the conditions align, Burleigh delivers solid barrels that will challenge even the most experienced surfers.
Besides the waves, Burleigh’s laid-back vibe is a big part of the appeal. After a session, grab a coffee from one of the many cafes nearby and chill out by the headland, watching others get pitted as you recover.
3. Duranbah (D-Bah)
D-Bah sits just across the border in New South Wales, but it’s considered a part of the Gold Coast surf scene. Known for its consistent beach break, D-Bah offers fast and hollow waves perfect for surfers looking to practise aerials and fast turns. It’s a reliable spot no matter the season, but during a solid swell, D-Bah really lights up.
Because D-Bah is an exposed break, it catches most swells, making it a go-to option when other spots are flat. And while the waves can get heavy, they’re manageable for surfers of all levels. Just keep in mind that D-Bah gets busy with bodyboarders and short boarders alike, so bring your A-game and be ready to share.
Surf Travel: Bali and Beyond
While the Gold Coast may be a haven for surfers, the itch to explore new breaks and different cultures is strong. Once you’ve nailed the local waves, it’s time to expand your horizons and take your surfing adventures global. One of the most accessible and exciting international surf destinations for Gold Coast surfers is just a few hours’ flight away: Bali.
1. Bali, Indonesia
Bali has long been a hotspot for surfers, attracting wave chasers from all corners of the globe. The Island of the Gods delivers perfect waves year-round, with warm water, tropical breezes, and an undeniable sense of adventure. If you’re looking for a solid dose of surf culture and legendary breaks, Bali is your spot.
Some of the best surf breaks include Uluwatu, Padang Padang, and Bingin. Each of these breaks delivers a unique experience, from Uluwatu’s fast, hollow reef breaks to Padang Padang’s heavy left-hand barrels, which are not for the faint-hearted. For intermediate surfers, Bingin is the sweet spot—perfect, peeling waves that will leave you grinning from ear to ear.
One of the perks of surfing Bali is the sheer number of beachfront villas available for rent. Picture this: you wake up to the sound of the ocean, grab your board, and walk straight out the door onto the beach, ready to hit the morning swell.
Renting a beachfront villa in Bali offers the ultimate surfer’s paradise experience. Many of these villas come with stunning ocean views, private pools, and direct beach access. Sites like Airbnb or even local rental services allow you to book a villa at surf spots like Canggu or Uluwatu, making your surf trip as seamless as possible.
2. Hawaii, USA
Hawaii is the birthplace of modern surfing, and no surf bucket list is complete without it. The waves here can be intimidating, especially on Oahu’s North Shore, home to Pipeline, Waimea Bay, and Sunset Beach. These iconic breaks are the ultimate proving grounds for any surfer serious about pushing their limits.
But Hawaii isn’t just for the pros. Spots like Waikiki Beach on Oahu and Honolua Bay on Maui offer gentler waves for beginners and intermediate surfers. With its incredible surf culture, beautiful landscapes, and consistent swell, Hawaii is a must-visit for any surfer with an adventurous spirit.
3. Mexico – Puerto Escondido
For those looking to experience the thrill of heavy beach breaks, Puerto Escondido in Mexico is the answer. Known as the “Mexican Pipeline,” Zicatela Beach produces some of the most powerful waves on the planet. It’s not uncommon to see triple overhead waves that rival Hawaii’s Pipeline in size and power.
Puerto Escondido’s surf season runs from May to September, with the largest swells hitting during the southern hemisphere’s winter months. While Zicatela is best suited for experienced surfers, the area also offers more manageable breaks like La Punta and Playa Carrizalillo for less experienced riders.
Planning Your Surf Trip
When planning your global surf adventure, keep a few key things in mind:
- Know the Season: Make sure you’re visiting during the best swell season for your skill level. Bali is fantastic year-round, but certain spots, like Puerto Escondido, have specific surf windows.
- Local Etiquette: Respect the locals. Whether you’re paddling out at Uluwatu or catching waves in Mexico, be mindful of the local surfing community. Understand the rules, and don’t drop in on other surfers.
- Surfboard Choices: Different locations may require different boards. For instance, Bali’s reef breaks may call for shorter boards with more manoeuvrability, while Zicatela’s powerful beach break might require a gun for big-wave riding.
Conclusion
Being a surfer on the Gold Coast is about more than just the waves—it’s a lifestyle that connects you to the ocean and the surf community. But as any true surfer knows, the pursuit of the perfect wave doesn’t end at your local break. Whether you’re tearing up Snapper Rocks or booking a beachfront villa in Bali to explore Indo’s finest waves, the surf journey is ongoing.
The world is full of incredible surf spots just waiting to be discovered. So pack your board, check the swell, and go chase the next wave. Whether it’s on the Gold Coast, in Bali, or beyond, the ocean is always calling.
