An Introduction To Coolangatta Surf
- Author | Matt K
- Updated | February 14, 2025
On the Gold Coast of Queensland, Coolangatta surf boasts a heavyweight list of world-famous breaks, making it one of Australia’s iconic surfing regions. Ranked among the best waves with almost unrivaled accessibility, Snapper Rocks, Duranbah, Greenmount, and Kirra are all at Coolangatta’s doorstep.
Snapper’s Superbank racks up one of the longest and most consistent right-handers on the planet, wowing the top pros and talented locals. Duranbah (D-Bah), just down the line, gives way to quick and punchy peaks for shortboarders looking for fast drops and bumpy rides.
Greenmount mellows the vibe with long, easy rides suited for beginners and longboarders alike. When swells hit Kirra right, it won’t disappoint with fast and hollow sections.
Coolangatta is easily navigable on foot or by bike due to great connected pathways and public transport. If you are hunting barrels or just learning to stand up, Coolangatta surf has a break for you.
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In This Guide
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Best Time To Surf Coolangatta
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Peak Coolangatta Surf Season | December to April
Suited For Intermediate & Advanced
Summer & early autumn deliver the most powerful & consistent Coolangatta surf, fueled by tropical cyclones & steady trade wind swells. Waves range from 3 to 8 foot, with long-period swells providing powerful, clean conditions when westerly offshore winds align.
The season’s unpredictability means some weeks feature pumping Coolangatta surf, while others are marred by onshore winds & stormy conditions. Crowds are intense, with skilled surfers dominating the takeoff zones, but there are still opportunities for fun sessions, especially early in the mornings.
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Shoulder Coolangatta Surf Season | May, June, October & November
Suited For All Skill Levels
Autumn & spring bring more moderate but still fun conditions, with waves in the 2 to 5-foot range. May & early June see lingering cyclone swells mixed with more frequent southerly swells, while October & November offer smaller but clean Coolangatta surf with the first signs of summer trade swells.
Coolangatta surf benefits from more reliable offshore winds in autumn, creating clean morning conditions, while spring can bring more variable swells. With fewer visitors than during the peak summer months, this is a great time to enjoy Coolangatta surf with lighter crowds & more space in the lineup.
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Low Coolangatta Surf Season | July to September
Suited For Beginners
Coolangatta surf experiences smaller & less frequent swells in winter as dominant storm systems shift south. While southerly swells still reach the region, they are often weaker due to swell-blocking effects. Wave heights generally range from 1 to 3 feet, with occasional larger days.
Offshore westerly winds keep Coolangatta surf clean, making it an ideal season for beginners & longboarders. While this isn’t the peak time for high-performance waves, winter offers mellow, enjoyable conditions with fewer crowds, allowing for a more relaxed Coolangatta surf experience.
Coolangatta Surf Temperature, What To Wear & Rainfall Guide
Coolangatta Surf Temperature:
25–27°C (77–81°F)
What To Wear:
You’ll be comfortable in boardshorts/bikini. The water is warm, so there’s no need for a wetsuit. A rash vest can help with sun protection during longer sessions.
Rainfall:
This is the wettest season, with 12–16 rainy days per month. Expect high humidity, tropical storms, & occasional heavy downpours, especially in the afternoons.
Coolangatta Surf Temperature:
23–25°C (73–77°F)
What To Wear:
Boardshorts/bikini are still fine for most of the season, but as the water cools, a 1-2 mm spring suit can help keep you comfortable.
Rainfall:
Rainfall starts to ease, with around 9–12 rainy days per month. The humidity drops, & the surf conditions become more stable with clean, consistent waves.
Coolangatta Surf Temperature:
20–22°C (68–72°F)
What To Wear:
A 3/2 mm full wetsuit is the best choice for winter. The water stays mild, but early mornings & offshore winds can make it feel colder.
Rainfall:
Winter is the driest season, with only 6–9 rainy days per month. Expect mostly sunny days, cooler mornings, & light offshore winds, making for great surf conditions.
Coolangatta Surf Temperature:
22–24°C (72–75°F)
What To Wear:
A spring suit or a 2 mm wetsuit is a good choice. On warmer days, you might be fine in boardshorts/bikini, especially toward the end of the season.
Rainfall:
Spring sees increasing rainfall, with around 8–11 rainy days per month. The humidity starts to build, but you’ll still get plenty of clear, sunny surf days.
Surf Spots Within 5km or 3 Miles From Coolangatta
| Coolangatta Surf Spots | Distance from Coolangatta | Wave Size | Wave Quality | Skill Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|
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Snapper Rocks |
In town centre |
2-8 foot |
Classic right-hand point break |
Intermediate to advanced |
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Greenmount |
Approx. 1-2km (0.6-1.2mi) |
2-6 foot |
Mellow right-hand point break |
Beginner to intermediate |
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Kirra |
Approx. 1-2km (0.6-1.2mi) |
6-10 foot |
Fast, hallow barrels |
Advanced |
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Duranbah (D-Bah) |
Approx. 1-2km (0.6-1.2mi) |
2-8 foot |
Powerful beach break |
Intermediate to advanced |
Further Information To Coolangatta Surf Spots
Ideal Conditions:
- Tide: Mid to high tide
- Wind: South-southwest
- Swell Direction: East-southeast
- Crowd Factor: High
Snapper Rocks surf is world-renowned for its long, peeling right-hand point break that initiates the famous Superbank. This legendary wave offers incredibly long rides, often connecting through to Greenmount & beyond when conditions align. Known for its fast, powerful walls & occasional barrel sections, it attracts some of the best surfers globally.
Snapper is best suited for intermediate to advanced surfers who can navigate its speed & competitive lineup. The break thrives on southeast swells & offshore westerly winds, producing world-class waves that deliver exhilarating sessions.
Despite its crowded nature, the sheer quality of the surf makes it an unmissable experience for those seeking the best of Gold Coast waves.
Rating: 5/5
Ideal Conditions:
- Tide: Mid to high tide
- Wind: Southeast
- Swell Direction: South-southeast
- Crowd Factor: Moderate to High
Greenmount surf is an inviting spot known for its smooth, playful waves that cater to a range of skill levels. Positioned along the Superbank, it benefits from the long rides generated by Snapper Rocks, offering a more forgiving alternative with clean, well-shaped walls perfect for carving & progression. It’s a great spot for intermediate surfers looking to refine their skills while still experiencing the energy of a world-class surf zone.
The break works best on southeast swells & low to mid-tide, providing consistent rides along its picturesque coastline. While crowds can be heavy, Greenmount’s mellow sections & scenic backdrop create an enjoyable surf session that balances challenge & accessibility.
Rating: 4/5
Ideal Conditions:
- Tide: Mid to low tide
- Wind: South
- Swell Direction: Southeast
- Crowd Factor: High
Kirra surf is an iconic break that has long been revered for its perfect, barreling right-handers & powerful, hollow waves. When conditions align, it produces some of the best tubes in Australia, offering fast, critical sections that challenge even experienced surfers.
The break works best on large southeast swells & offshore westerly winds, creating long, high-performance rides. Kirra’s sand-bottomed barrels are legendary, drawing surfers eager to experience its mechanical perfection.
While the break has changed over the years due to sand movement, it remains a go-to spot for those seeking powerful, technical waves. With its strong local presence & high crowd factor, Kirra continues to be a must-surf destination for those chasing world-class barrels.
Rating: 5/5
Ideal Conditions:
- Tide: Low tide
- Wind: South-southwest
- Swell Direction: South-southeast
- Crowd Factor: High
Duranbah surf, often called “D-Bah,” is one of the most consistent beach breaks on the Gold Coast, producing fast, punchy waves that suit all styles of surfing. Unlike the point breaks of the Superbank, D-Bah offers more peaks & shifts, creating an ever-changing lineup with plenty of opportunities for critical turns & airs. It works well across all tides & picks up more swell than surrounding spots, making it a reliable choice when other breaks are small.
This consistency attracts a strong crowd of locals & visiting surfers, leading to a competitive lineup. Despite this, its high-performance waves & energetic atmosphere ensure an exciting surf session, whether you’re carving, boosting airs, or chasing barrels.
Rating: 4.5/5
Travel Time To Coolangatta Surf Spots
| Coolangatta Surf Spots | Walking Time | Biking Time | Public Transport |
|---|---|---|---|
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Snapper Rocks |
5-10 min. |
5 min. |
Not required |
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Greenmount |
5-10 min. |
5-10 min. |
Not required |
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Kirra |
5-15 min. |
5-10 min. |
Not required |
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Duranbah (D-Bah) |
5-10 min. |
5-10 min. |
Not required |
Accommodation In Coolangatta
If a surf trip to Coolangatta is your dream vacation, then the place to book your accommodation is Trip.com. There are a number of options that are fairly close to the beach, from boutique hotels to chilled out hostels. Early bookings save you from last minute stress and let you concentrate on enjoying those surf sessions.
Tripaneer has surf camps all across Australia where one can find professional instruction, lodging, and social networking. These camps welcome you into the Australia surf lifestyle while working on improving your surfing. The perfect mix of learning and a fun holiday!
| Accommodation Type | Description | Price Range (EUR)* | Price Range (USD)* |
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Hostels |
Dormitory-style accommodation |
€35 to €50 |
$40 to $55 |
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Mid-range Hotels/Serviced Apartments |
Studio apartments, motels, or 1-bedroom units |
€110 to €220 |
$120 to $240 |
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Luxury Stays |
Luxury beachfront resorts or high-end apartments |
€250 to €500 |
$270 to $550 |
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*Rates are per night and subject to change. |
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Coolangatta Surf Lessons & Surf Schools
Coolangatta surf schools boasts a variety of surf lessons perfect for beginners and those looking to improve their skills. Coolangatta surf lessons at Go Ride A Wave offers professional instruction with friendly coaches and a focus on safety and fun.
Kirra Point Surf School provides lessons at one of Coolangatta’s iconic surf spots, with expert instructors dedicated to helping you catch waves with confidence. Coolangatta Learn To Surf is a fantastic option for all ages, offering personalized coaching in small group or private settings to ensure the best learning experience.
Improve Surfing specializes in advancing skills for intermediate and experienced surfers, making it a great choice for those looking to refine their technique and take their surfing to the next level. These four Coolangatta surf schools provide expert coaching, quality equipment, and an immersive experience in one of Australia’s most iconic surf destinations.
Coolangatta Surf Camp
Coolangatta may not have standard surf camps, but it boasts a huge range of local lodgings, making it a prime surfing destination for those seeking comfort and convenience. From hotels to holiday homes to beachfront accommodation, the area has it all, and the majority of them are just a short stroll away from Coolangatta surf spots.
If you venture an hour down south to Byron Bay, make the most of your trip with a 3-day, 2-night Surf & Stay experience at Soul Surf School. This package consists of two days of surf lessons led by experts for all skill levels, be it a beginner catching your first wave, or somewhat an advanced rider improving your technique.
You will be staying at a fun, social accommodation just a few minutes from the beach, allowing easy access to the laid-back surf culture of Byron Bay. Available for solo travellers or groups of up to six people.
For a longer stay, Mojosurf offers a four-day surf & stay for solo traveller or pair options. The surf package includes four surf lessons, three nights’ accommodation, and all the gear necessary for an incredible time honing in on your skills and soaking in Byron Bay’s surf lifestyle.
Coolangatta Surfboard Hire
Coolangatta surfboard hire at Go Ride A Wave offers a variety of surfboard rentals, conveniently located near Coolangatta’s popular beaches.
Coolangatta Board Store is another excellent choice, providing high-quality boards for hire to suit surfers of all skill levels.
These two Coolangatta surfboard hire spots provide everything you need to enjoy the world-class waves of Snapper Rocks, Greenmount, & Kirra. Offering a wide range of boards for all skill levels, they make it easy to grab the right gear & hit the water without hassle.
Coolangatta Surf Report & Surf Cam
You gotta stay tuned for wave action on your Coolangatta surf journey. Surf-Forecast gives clear information on tides and swell, Surfline has live cams, but it’s a pay to watch situation.
Drimsim eSIM or a Yesim eSIM gives online access as it connects instantly upon landing, no swapping of SIM cards or visits to stores. Whether you want to watch the live surf or update highlights from your Australia surf, Drimsim or Yesim keeps the connection on and puts you in control of your sessions.
How To Get To Coolangatta Surf
- Gold Coast Airport (OOL) To Coolangatta
Distance: 3km (1.9mi)
The best way to get to Coolangatta surf is by flying into Gold Coast Airport (OOL), also known as Coolangatta Airport. Conveniently located just min. from the top surf breaks as described above, this airport offers easy access to your favourite waves.
Public Transport
Approx. 20 min.
Details:
Upon arriving at Gold Coast Airport, follow the clear signage directing you to the local bus stops located just outside the terminal. Board a local bus service that runs along the coastal route towards Coolangatta; these services typically operate every 20 minutes.
The bus ride is air-conditioned and offers a relaxed way to enjoy the local scenery as you travel a short distance to your destination. Although this option may take a bit longer than a direct taxi, it remains the most economical choice, and schedules are generally reliable—however, it’s still wise to check current timetables online or at the terminal, especially during peak periods or local holidays.
Shuttle Service
Approx. 15 min.
Details:
Reputable shuttle companies such as Gold Coast Shuttle, Coolangatta Express Shuttle, and Aussie Shuttle Service operate between Gold Coast Airport and Coolangatta. Once you arrive, look for the clearly marked shuttle pick-up area just outside the terminal.
These shuttles run on fixed schedules, often coordinated with flight arrivals, ensuring you don’t have to wait long for your ride.
Pre-book your shuttle with HolidayTaxis or Welcome Pickups so your ride is ready when you land. This convenient service lets you get from the airport to the beach quickly & without any fuss.
- Brisbane Airport (BNE) To Coolangatta
Distance: 80km (50mi)
If you land at Brisbane Airport (BNE), below are the estimated costs & various transportation options to reach Coolangatta surf from BNE.
Public Transport
Approx. 1.5 – 2 hrs.
Details:
After landing at Brisbane Airport, make your way to the Airtrain station located within the airport precinct. Board the Airtrain to Brisbane’s city center—commonly to Roma Street or Brisbane Central station—where you’ll transfer to a long-distance coach service that travels along the coast toward the Gold Coast region, with stops including Coolangatta.
This multi-leg journey, while requiring a couple of transfers, provides a comfortable, air-conditioned ride and is the most budget-friendly option available. It also gives you the opportunity to see a broader slice of Queensland’s landscapes.
To ensure a smooth connection between services, check the latest timetables online or at the station, as schedules can vary on weekends and during public holidays.
Shuttle Service
Approx. 1.5 – 2 hrs.
Details:
Several reputable shuttle companies provide services between Brisbane Airport and Coolangatta, including providers such as Brisbane Airport Shuttle, Gold Coast Shuttle, and Coolangatta Express Shuttle. Upon disembarking at Brisbane Airport, look for the shuttle service counters or designated pick-up points just outside the terminal.
Pre-book your shuttle through HolidayTaxis or Welcome Pickups and have your ride ready when you arrive. This hassle-free transfer takes you from the airport to the beach quickly & easily.
Australian Travel Information | 7 Essentials You Need To Know
Surfing in Australia is accessible and straightforward, but don’t skip the essentials. Carry a card with you, as most places accept digital payment. Tap water is clean and safe, even in small beach towns.
We’ve listed all 7 key essentials on our Australia surf page, including visa entry info, health advice, and connectivity tips to make your trip hassle-free.
Travel Insurance For Your Coolangatta Surf Trip
Excellent surf trips to Australia will usually start off with good planning, not only can people check weather forecasts or pack wax, but they should also prepare for mishaps. By the time you get on the plane, you should have your Coolangatta surf adventure insured.
VisitorsCoverage covers medical expenses, cancellations, and equipment loss, which include finding plans. Illnesses, injuries, or even delays can ruin a perfectly planned trip. With travel insurance, you can bounce back quickly.
Discover Coolangatta: What To Do When The Waves Are Flat
When the surf isn’t on in Coolangatta, there are plenty of other exciting activities to explore. Below are 5 recommended activities to make the most of your time.
Exploring Gold Coast: The Best Sights & Landmarks to Visit
The Gold Coast offers more than just surf and beaches. Head inland to explore lush rainforests, waterfalls, and scenic trails in the hinterland. Or stay local and enjoy theme parks, cultural spots, and great dining.
For even more experiences, check out GetYourGuide and Viator for everything from day tours to wildlife encounters and food adventures.