10 Sydney beaches for a surf and a proper switch off
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These are the spots I’d pick when you want a decent wave and just want your brain to shut up for a bit.
- Maroubra
Maroubra’s the one when you actually want a real surf. It can be a bit punchy, but when it’s good, it’s so good. Feels less touristy too which helps.
- Cronulla
Cronulla’s got heaps going on depending where you go. You can find something fun most days. And the whole area just feels like classic surf town vibes.
- Bronte
Bronte’s smaller but it’s such a nice spot. Surf, then sit on the grass like a lizard in the sun. Easy.
- Freshwater
Freshie’s just good energy. It’s got that old-school surf feel and usually a pretty chill crowd if you’re not being a goose.
- Manly
Manly’s busy but it works. You can surf, grab food, wander around, sit by the water and pretend you’re on holidays even if you’re not.
- Curl Curl
Curl Curl feels a bit more “proper ocean” if that makes sense. Bigger, rougher, not as polished. Great when you want space and a bit of power.
- Narrabeen
Narrabeen’s handy because you can usually find a section that’s doing something decent. Long beach too so it never feels as cramped.
- Bondi
Look, Bondi’s Bondi. It can be a circus, but if you go early or late, it’s actually fun. And the post-surf people-watching is top tier.
- Avalon
Avalon’s got that cruisy Northern Beaches thing going on. Fun waves, pretty views, and it just feels slower up there.
- Palm Beach
Palm Beach is for when you want it to feel like you’ve escaped Sydney. Surf, chill, stare at the water, forget what day it is.
happy surfing
