Are you a surfer looking for the next adventure? Tasmania boasts some of Australia’s best and uncrowded surf spots. Whether you’re an experienced surfer or a beginner, Tasmania’s diverse coastline offers a range of waves for every level of expertise. From the east coast to the west coast and the southern tip, we’ve got you covered with the best surf spots that Tasmania has to offer.
Discovering Tasmania’s Surf Scene
Tasmania’s surf scene is not as popular as other states in Australia, but its unique charm comes with uncrowded waves and rugged coastline. Tasmania’s surf culture is relatively small, but it is passionate and committed to preserving the Island’s natural beauty. The Island’s surf spots are often less accessible and more remote, so having a four-wheel-drive vehicle is essential.
A Brief History of Surfing in Tasmania
Surfing in Tasmania dates back to the early 1960s when a group of enthusiastic surfers discovered the Island’s coastline. These surfers were the pioneers of the Tasmanian surf scene and explored the rugged coastline, discovering hidden gems that are still surfed today. In the early days, surfing in Tasmania was a solitary experience, with surfers often having to hike for miles to find a good break.
For decades, Tasmania’s surf scene remained relatively unknown and isolated until the late 1980s when surfing competitions began to take place. The Island’s surf spots were still relatively unknown, and the competitions helped put Tasmania’s surf scene on the map.
In recent years, the Island’s surf culture has grown in popularity due to social media and digital platforms. Tasmanian surfers are now able to share their experiences and showcase the Island’s unique surf spots to the world.
The Unique Appeal of Tasmanian Surfing
Tasmania’s surf spots are unique and offer surfers a chance to experience the raw and rugged beauty of the Island. The Island’s coastline is diverse, ranging from long sandy beaches to rocky points and reef breaks. This diversity means that there is a surf spot for every type of surfer, from beginners to experienced surfers looking for a challenge.
The remote location of the Island’s surf spots means that the waves are often uncrowded, making it an ideal destination for experienced surfers looking for a challenge. The lack of crowds also means that surfers can enjoy the waves without the stress of jostling for position with other surfers.
Tasmania’s surf culture is also unique, with a strong emphasis on environmentalism and sustainability. Surfers on the Island are committed to preserving the natural beauty of the coastline and work hard to keep the beaches clean and free of litter.
In addition to surfing, Tasmania offers a range of other outdoor activities, including hiking, mountain biking, and kayaking. These activities are a great way to explore the Island’s rugged landscape and experience the natural beauty of Tasmania.
Top Surf Spots on the East Coast
Tasmania’s east coast is home to some of the Island’s most popular surf spots. From Bicheno to Shelly Point, there are plenty of options for surfers of all levels to catch some waves and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
Bicheno
Bicheno is a small town located on Tasmania’s east coast, known for its beautiful beaches and great surf spots. It is a popular destination for surfers due to its variety of breaks, ranging from gentle waves to challenging conditions. The most popular surf spot is the ‘main beach,’ which offers consistent waves that are ideal for beginners and intermediate surfers. In addition to surfing, Bicheno is also a great place for fishing, swimming, and exploring the nearby nature reserves.
Friendly Beaches
Friendly Beaches is a pristine and remote beach located in the Freycinet National Park. It is a popular destination for experienced surfers due to its challenging and unpredictable waves. The beach is accessible via walking trails or 4WD tracks, and the journey to get there is just as beautiful as the destination. Along the way, you’ll pass through stunning forests and have the opportunity to spot local wildlife such as wallabies and Tasmanian devils. Once you arrive at the beach, you’ll be rewarded with some of the best surfing on the east coast.
Scamander Rivermouth
Scamander Rivermouth is a popular surf spot located in the northeastern part of Tasmania. It offers a consistent swell and is an ideal destination for experienced surfers looking for a challenge. The rivermouth is surrounded by beautiful scenery, including the nearby Scamander Conservation Area, which is home to a variety of bird species and other wildlife. After a day of surfing, you can relax and enjoy a picnic or BBQ in one of the nearby parks.
Shelly Point
Shelly Point is a secluded surf spot located near the town of Binalong Bay. It offers a consistent and powerful wave that is perfect for experienced surfers. The beach is surrounded by stunning cliffs and rock formations, creating a picturesque backdrop for your surfing adventure. After a day of surfing, you can explore the nearby Bay of Fires Conservation Area, which is known for its beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters.
Overall, Tasmania’s east coast is a paradise for surfers and nature lovers alike. With its beautiful beaches, challenging waves, and stunning scenery, it’s no wonder why so many people flock to this part of the island to catch some waves.
Must-visit Surf Spots on the West Coast
Tasmania’s west coast is a surfer’s paradise, with some of the Island’s most remote and challenging surf spots. The rugged coastline and pristine waters offer an unforgettable experience for surfers of all levels.
Marrawah
Marrawah is a remote town located on the far northwest coast of Tasmania, surrounded by stunning wilderness and rugged coastline. It is home to some of the most consistent and challenging waves in Australia, making it a destination for experienced surfers. The waves at Marrawah are known for their power and consistency, with the best conditions occurring in the winter months.
The town of Marrawah itself is small and unassuming, with a population of less than 100 people. However, it has become a popular destination for surfers from all over the world, who come to test their skills against the powerful waves.
Nettley Bay
Nettley Bay is a hidden gem located on the west coast of Tasmania, just a short drive from Marrawah. It is a secluded spot that offers consistent and challenging waves, making it a destination for experienced surfers. The waves at Nettley Bay are known for their power and speed, with the best conditions occurring in the autumn months.
The beach at Nettley Bay is surrounded by stunning wilderness, with towering cliffs and dense forests providing a dramatic backdrop to the surf. It is a popular spot for camping and hiking, with many visitors choosing to stay for several days to enjoy the natural beauty of the area.
Trial Harbour
Trial Harbour is a small town located on the west coast of Tasmania and is known for its consistent and powerful waves. It is a popular destination for experienced surfers due to its challenging conditions. The waves at Trial Harbour are known for their size and power, with the best conditions occurring in the winter months.
The town of Trial Harbour is small and remote, with a population of less than 50 people. However, it has become a popular destination for surfers who are looking for a unique and challenging surfing experience.
Granville Harbour
Granville Harbour is a small fishing village located on the west coast of Tasmania, surrounded by rugged coastline and pristine wilderness. It is home to some of the most challenging waves in the Island and offers a unique surfing experience. The waves at Granville Harbour are known for their power and consistency, with the best conditions occurring in the autumn months.
The village of Granville Harbour is small and charming, with a population of less than 100 people. It has a rich history, with many of the buildings dating back to the early 1900s. Visitors can explore the village and learn about its history, or simply relax and enjoy the stunning natural beauty of the area.
Southern Tasmania’s Hidden Gems
Tasmania’s southern tip is often overlooked when it comes to surfing, but the region is home to some of the Island’s hidden gems.
Tasmania’s coastline is known for its rugged beauty and pristine beaches, and the southern tip is no exception. With crystal-clear waters and stunning scenery, it’s no wonder that surfers are drawn to this part of the Island.
Clifton Beach
Clifton Beach is a secluded beach located near Hobart, Tasmania’s capital city. It offers consistent and gentle waves that are ideal for beginners and intermediate surfers. The beach is surrounded by towering cliffs and has a peaceful, tranquil atmosphere, making it the perfect spot for a relaxing surf session.
In addition to surfing, Clifton Beach is also a popular spot for fishing and beachcombing. The beach is home to a variety of marine life, including dolphins and seals, and is a great place to explore the tide pools and rock formations.
Eaglehawk Neck
Eaglehawk Neck is a popular destination for surfers looking for a challenge. It is home to one of Tasmania’s most challenging waves, the ‘Devil’s Gate.’ This wave is not for the faint of heart and requires experience and skill to ride.
In addition to surfing, Eaglehawk Neck is also a great spot for hiking and wildlife watching. The area is home to a variety of bird species, including the endangered forty-spotted pardalote, as well as wallabies and other native wildlife.
South Arm Peninsula
South Arm Peninsula is a popular destination for surfers looking for a range of waves. It offers a variety of breaks, ranging from gentle waves to challenging conditions. The peninsula is located just a short drive from Hobart and is a great spot for a day trip.
In addition to surfing, South Arm Peninsula is also a great place for hiking and exploring. The area is home to a variety of walking trails, including the Truganini Reserve, which offers stunning views of the coastline and the surrounding mountains.
Shipstern Bluff
Shipstern Bluff is Tasmania’s most famous and challenging wave. It is a destination for experienced surfers and offers some of the most powerful waves in the Island. The wave is known for its steep drop and intense barrel, and is not for the faint of heart.
In addition to surfing, Shipstern Bluff is also a great spot for photography and wildlife watching. The area is home to a variety of bird species, including albatross and shearwaters, as well as seals and dolphins.
Tasmania’s surf spots are unique and offer a range of waves for every level of expertise. Whether you’re looking for a challenge or a laid-back surf session on a secluded beach, Tasmania has something for everyone. So pack your board and hit the road, and discover Tasmania’s hidden gems.