Sunshine Coast Surf Guide 2025 | 5 Best Spots With Easy Access

An Introduction To Sunshine Coast Surf

The Sunshine Coast surf gives an ideal mix of waves for everyone, from fun beach breaks to famous right-hand points. These are world-class conditions without the crowded line ups, giving a lowkey haven for surfers who want quality and space. Whether a long ride or just developing, it’s got something for everyone.

Everyone surfing on the Sunshine Coast comes to Alexandra Headland, famed for its consistent right-hand point which attracts intermediate and advanced surfers. It also boasts softer beaches like Mooloolaba, Maroochydore, and Cotton Tree, perfect for beginners or laid-back sessions.

The gentle break of Mooloolaba is only a 30-minute walk away, or better yet, a 10-minute bike ride. Closer still are Maroochydore and Cotton Tree within an airy 10-minute walk. For more advanced riders, it is a heavier challenge on the reef at Point Cartwright which is reached in about 15 minutes by bike or via a quick bus ride.

Some of the links on this website are affiliate links, which means we may earn a commission at no additional cost to you if you decide to make a purchase or book a service through them. We only promote products and services that we believe in, and your support helps us continue to provide honest insights and valuable content.
Thank you for your trust and for supporting our work!

Surfer girl with long hair walking into the water holding a surfboard at Sunshine Coast Surf

In This Guide

Surf Camp
Find Your Australia Surf Camp
Compare Prices, Book Today

Best Time To Surf Sunshine Coast

Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

Sunshine Coast surf sees its most consistent swell during summer & early autumn, driven by tropical cyclones & steady easterly trade winds. Long-period cyclone swells can generate powerful waves in the 3 to 8-foot range, offering excellent conditions when paired with offshore westerly winds in the mornings. However, summer’s unpredictability means some weeks deliver world-class surf, while others see choppy onshore conditions & short-period wind swells.

With warm water & an influx of tourists, lineups can get busy, especially at well-known breaks. However, for those willing to explore, Sunshine Coast surf offers plenty of quieter spots further down the coast, providing more relaxed sessions away from the crowds.

Autumn & spring bring moderate yet enjoyable waves, with Sunshine Coast surf offering consistent 2 to 5-foot swells. In May & early June, remnants of cyclone swells linger, blending with cooler-season southerly swells to create fun, varied conditions. Offshore west winds remain dominant in the mornings, helping maintain clean & surfable waves.

By spring (October–November), early signs of summer’s easterly swells begin to show, though conditions can be unpredictable, with occasional flat spells. With fewer crowds than peak summer, this is an excellent time to experience Sunshine Coast surf, whether enjoying longboard-friendly waves at Alexandra Headland or fun peaks at the region’s open beach breaks.

As winter sets in, Sunshine Coast surf experiences smaller & less frequent swells as dominant weather patterns shift south. While the region still receives southerly swells, Moreton & Stradbroke Islands often block them, reducing the number of quality surf days. Wave heights typically range from 1 to 3 feet, with occasional pulses reaching 4 feet.

Offshore westerly winds keep conditions clean, making this a great time for beginners to practice. While not ideal for high-performance surfing, Sunshine Coast surf in winter provides relaxed, longboard-friendly waves & fewer crowds in the lineup.

Sunshine Coast Surf Temperature, What To Wear & Rainfall Guide

Sunshine Coast Surf Temperature:
25–27°C (77–91°F)

What To Wear:
You’ll be comfortable in boardshorts/bikini. The water is warm, so you won’t need a wetsuit. If you’re planning long sessions, a rash vest can help with sun protection.

Rainfall:
This is the rainiest season, with 12–15 rainy days per month. Expect humid conditions & occasional afternoon storms, but plenty of sunshine between showers.

Sunshine Coast Surf Temperature:
23–25°C (73–77°F)

What To Wear:
You can still get away with boardshorts/bikini, but if you’re sensitive to cooler water, a 1-2 mm spring suit can add some extra warmth.

Rainfall:
Rainfall starts easing off, with around 9–12 rainy days per month. The humidity drops, & the weather becomes more stable, making this a great time for consistent surf.

Sunshine Coast Surf Temperature:
20–22°C (68–72°F)

What To Wear:
A 3/2 mm full wetsuit is the best choice. The water stays relatively mild, but early morning & evening sessions can feel a bit chilly without some insulation.

Rainfall:
This is the driest season, with around 6–9 rainy days per month. You’ll get mostly sunny days with cool mornings & pleasant afternoons.

Sunshine Coast Surf Temperature:
22–24°C (72–75°F)

What To Wear:
A spring suit or a 2 mm wetsuit is ideal. The water is warming up, so some days you might even be fine in boardshorts/bikini.

Rainfall:
Spring sees increasing rainfall, with around 8–11 rainy days per month. Conditions are still mostly dry early in the season, but humidity starts creeping back toward summer levels.

 

Surfer riding a left-hand wave, skillfully maneuvering along the face with a bright yellow surfboard at Sunshine Coast

Surf Spots Within 5km or 3 Miles From Sunshine Coast

Sunshine Coast Surf Spots Distance from Alexandra Headland Wave Size Wave Quality Skill Level
Alexandra Headland
In town centre
2-6 foot
Right-hand point break
All levels
Mooloolaba Beach
Approx. 2.5km (1.5mi) south
2-4 foot
Small beach break, less consistent waves
Beginner to intermediate, great for learners
Maroochydore Beach
Approx. 2km (1.2mi) north
2-5 foot
Beach break, fun waves but can close out on big days
Beginner to intermediate, good for building confidence
Point Cartwright
Approx. 4km (2.5mi) south
2-8 foot
Powerful right-hand point break
Advanced only (rocks, heavy waves)
Cotton Tree
Approx. 1.5km (0.9mi) north
2-4 foot
Rivermouth break, mellow but fun on the right swell
Intermediate to advanced, beginners on smaller days

Further Information To Sunshine Coast Surf Spots

Ideal Conditions:

  • Tide: Mid to high tide
  • Wind: Southwest
  • Swell Direction: East to Southeast
  • Crowd Factor: Moderate to High

Alexandra Headland, known as “Alex” by locals, is a renowned point break on the Sunshine Coast. Right-hand waves in this area are both longboarders’ and shortboarders’ dream runs, featuring peeling long waves ideal for carving & manoeuvre.

The pointy rocks mark the waves and provide conditions consistent enough, especially with an east to southeast swell. While the takeoff zone can become crowded, particularly on weekends & holidays, the vibe in the lineup is generally relaxed & friendly.

Surfers must be careful of the rocky bottom near the point & strong currents when there are larger swells. The area is well serviced with facilities like close-by cafes, & the Alexandra Headland Surf Life Saving Club, hence an easily accessible & enjoyable spot to have a surf session.

Rating: 4/5

Ideal Conditions:

  • Tide: Mid to high tide
  • Wind: Southwest
  • Swell Direction: East
  • Crowd Factor: Moderate

Mooloolaba Beach is a picturesque beach better known for its swimming & family atmosphere than for its surf. That being said, when there’s a decent size east swell, the beach can dish up some nice beach break waves that are perfect for beginners & intermediate surfers.

The waves here are pretty mellow, with both left & right-handers breaking over a sandy bottom, so it’s a forgiving place to try to get your skills up. Due to its popularity with visitors, the beach can get busy, though the surf spots are generally less busy than the swimming spots.

Amenities are plentiful, with an excellent range of cafes, restaurants, & shops all within walking distance, along with ample parking facilities. The beach is lifeguarded, so it is a safe destination to visit for all.

Rating: 3/5

Ideal Conditions:

  • Tide: Mid to high tide
  • Wind: Southwest
  • Swell Direction: East
  • Crowd Factor: Moderate

Maroochydore Beach offers a variety of beach break peaks that cater to surfers of all levels. The waves have the potential to offer lengthy rides with workable faces, and it’s well-liked among locals.

The beach is broad, & surfers can disperse & find less crowded peaks away from the central access points. Amenities such as the Maroochydore Surf Life Saving Club & close cafes, make it a simple location to spend a day at the beach. Surfers should be conscious of rip currents, especially near the river mouth, & always heed lifeguard instructions.

Rating: 3.5/5

Ideal Conditions:

  • Tide: Mid tide
  • Wind: West to Southwest
  • Swell Direction: Southeast
  • Crowd Factor: Moderate to High

Point Cartwright is a prominent point that offers a quality right-hand point break that will appeal to more experienced surfers. The wave here can be fast & powerful, especially in a solid southeast swell, with the possibility of high-performance maneuvers & the odd barrel.

The break is over a rocky platform, so surfers must have good wave knowledge & be able to keep an eye out for the hazards around them. Access to the break is by a walk through the Point Cartwright Reserve, which helps to limit the size of the crowds somewhat compared to more easily accessed spots.

The natural beauty of the area, with walking tracks & panoramic ocean views, helps to enhance the appeal of this surf break. Surfers must be cautious due to the rocky bottom & take heed that the beach is unpatrolled, so surfing with a buddy is advised.

Rating: 4/5

Ideal Conditions:

  • Tide: Mid to high tide
  • Wind: Southwest
  • Swell Direction: East-Southeast
  • Crowd Factor: Moderate

Cotton Tree is located at the mouth of the Maroochy River & offers a unique form of surfing where river & ocean conditions converge. The area provides a variety of sandbank setups that have the potential to create both right & left-hand waves, hence making it suitable for surfers of all levels.

During an east swell, the sandbanks can align to create fun, peaky waves that are ideal for both shortboarding & longboarding. The proximity to the river mouth also means that the conditions of the water can change rapidly, & surfers must be aware of powerful currents & shifting sandbanks. The location is well-developed, with the Cotton Tree Holiday Park, shops, & cafes all nearby, making it a very accessible spot for locals & visitors alike.

Rating: 3.5/5

Travel Time To Sunshine Coast Surf Spots

Sunshine Coast Surf Spots Walking Time Biking Time Public Transport
Alexandra Headland
5 min.
5 min.
Not required
Mooloolaba Beach
Approx. 30 min.
10 min.
10-15 min. (Bus routes from Alexandra Headland available)
Maroochydore Beach
Approx. 25 min.
8-10 min.
10-15 min. (Bus routes from Alexandra Headland available)
Point Cartwright
Approx. 50 min.
20 min.
15-20 min. (Bus to Mooloolaba, with a short walk and a swim across the Mooloolah River)
Cotton Tree
Approx. 20 min.
7-10 min.
10-15 min. (Bus routes from Alexandra Headland available)

Accommodation In Sunshine Coast

Should you wish to make your Sunshien Coast surf trip easy, start by making your hotel booking with Trip.com. They have various properties by the ocean ranging from posh resorts to budget traveler type guesthouses. Early bookings gives you peace of mind and more time to catch some waves.

For surfers looking to upgrade their level in Australia, Tripaneer has surf camps that combine coaching, accommodation with comfort, and a lively community. These camps are your ticket to experiencing the full Sunshine Coast surf lifestyle while improving your surfing skills in a fun and supportive atmosphere.

Accommodation Type Description Price Range (EUR)* Price Range (USD)*
Hostels
Dormitory-style accommodation
€18 to €38
$20 to $40
Mid-range Hotels/Serviced Apartments
Studio apartments, motels, or 1-bedroom units
€70 to €150
$75 to $160
Luxury Stays
Luxury beachfront resorts or high-end apartments
€175 to €500
$190 to $550

*Rates are per night and subject to change.

Sunshine Coast Surf Lessons & Surf Schools

Sunshine Coast surf lessons are perfect for all levels, with top surf schools helping beginners catch their first waves & experienced surfers refine their technique.

Robbie Sherwell’s XL Surfing Academy, based in Alexandra Headland and Mooloolaba, is a top choice for those seeking expert instruction. With a focus on both introductory and private lessons, Robbie Sherwell and his team bring years of professional surfing experience to ensure you’re in good hands while learning the ropes.

Meanwhile, Maroochy Surf School in nearby Maroochydore offers a diverse array of surf lessons tailored to all skill levels. Offering everything from group sessions to women’s-only classes, it’s a great way to experience the thrill of Sunshine Coast surf lessons in a supportive environment.

Sunshine Coast Surf Camp

Sunshine Coast is not typically recognized for surf camps but offers a variety of lodgings throughout the region, making it an ideal holiday spot for surfers who take comfort into consideration as well as convenience. From hotels, vacation homes, to beachside lodgings or any other kind of accommodations, you can find everything that is just within a stone’s throw from Sunshine Coast surf spots.

If you venture south to Byron Bay, make the most of your trip with a 3-day, 2-night Surf & Stay experience at Soul Surf School. You’ll just minutes from the beach, making it easy to soak up Byron Bay’s laid-back surf culture. This surf camp is available for solo travellers or groups of up to six people. Be sure to book ahead!

Soul Surf School Byron Bay at night
Image Credit: Soul Surf School | Byron Bay
Surf Learning at Soul Surf School in Byron Bay
Image Credit: Soul Surf School | Byron Bay

Sunshine Coast Surfboard Hire

Sunshine Coast surfboard hire is easily accessible for those wanting to hit the waves without a lesson, with great rental options available.

Beach Beat in Alexandra Headland, conveniently located just across from the beach has a variety of boards to suit all skill levels. It’s the perfect spot to gear up and hit the waves at your own pace.

For a more relaxing experience on the water, you can head to Sunreef in Mooloolaba to hire a stand-up paddleboard. Situated near the calm, scenic waterways, it’s a fantastic way to explore the coastline while still enjoying the beauty of Sunshine Coast surf.

Sunshine Coast Surf Report & Surf Cam

Surfing in Australia means catching the right swell and, of course, using good, reliable tools. Surf-Forecast offers quite detailed tide and swell data while Surfline provides live cams showing the surf as it happens at the best breaks around Sunshine Coast and Australia. You can access these cams about a paid subscription, but they’re worth their weight to plan it well.

A Drimsim eSIM or a Yesim eSIM keeps you connected immediately on arrival, no local SIM is required. You could check out surf reports, watch live from the cams, or upload your favorite Sunshine Coast surf clips whenever you like.

Surf Camp Long
Find Your Australia Surf Camp!

How To Get To Sunshine Coast Surf

Distance: 13km (8mi)

The best way to get to Alexandra Headland is by flying into Sunshine Coast Airport (MCY). Although smaller than Brisbane Airport (BNE), it offers a much more convenient option for travellers. 

Taxi or Rideshare
Approx. 15-20 min.

Details:
Taxis & ride-share services such as Uber & Ola are available at Sunshine Coast Airport’s designated pick-up zones. This is the fastest & easiest way to get to Alexandra Headland, taking you directly via David Low Way.

Use HolidayTaxis or Welcome Pickups to book your taxi ahead of time, ensuring no waiting after you land. This service is perfect for travelers with bulky luggage or surfboards who want a smooth, stress-free transfer from the airport to their accommodation.

Public Transport
Approx. 30-45 min.

Details:
Upon arrival, take Bus Route 622 from Sunshine Coast Airport toward Maroochydore. From Maroochydore Station, you can either walk (about 15 minutes) or transfer to Bus Route 600, which stops directly in Alexandra Headland.

Buses operate regularly throughout the day, but checking the latest schedules is recommended. This option is the most affordable but may take longer depending on wait times for connections.

Shuttle Service
Approx. 30-40 min.

Details:
Shuttle companies provide pre-booked transfers from Sunshine Coast Airport to Alexandra Headland. These shared or private services are scheduled to match flight arrivals & offer a comfortable ride with space for luggage.

Some shuttles may stop in Maroochydore before continuing to Alexandra Headland, so travel times may vary. 

Reserve your shuttle before your flight through HolidayTaxis or Welcome Pickups. This guarantees a prompt ride upon arrival, making your journey from the airport to the beach hassle-free & quick, even after a long flight.

Distance: 100km (62mi)

Since Sunshine Coast Airport (MCY) is relatively small, most international flights land at Brisbane Airport (BNE).  Below are various transportation options to reach Alexandra Headland from BNE.

Taxi or Rideshare
Approx. 1.5-2.0 hrs.

Details:
Taxis & ride-share services like Uber & Ola are available at Brisbane Airport’s designated pick-up areas. The drive follows the M1 & Bruce Highway for a direct & efficient route to Alexandra Headland.

Avoid the hassle of finding a taxi at the airport by booking ahead with HolidayTaxis or Welcome Pickups. This is especially useful if you have large luggage or surfboards, ensuring your driver is waiting & your transfer is seamless from the airport to your destination.

Public Transport
Approx. 2.5-3.5 hrs.

Details:
From Brisbane Airport, take the Airtrain to Eagle Junction Station, then transfer to a train to Nambour (about 2 hours total, $10–$15 USD). From Nambour Station, take Bus Route 610 or 620 to Maroochydore, then transfer to Bus Route 600 to reach Alexandra Headland.

While this is the most affordable option, it requires multiple transfers, so checking schedules in advance is advisable.

Shuttle Service
Approx. 2-3 hrs.

Details:
Several shuttle operators offer direct transfers from Brisbane Airport to Alexandra Headland. These pre-booked services typically align with flight arrivals & offer comfortable, air-conditioned rides with space for luggage.

Shared transfers may include stops in other Sunshine Coast towns, while private transfers provide a faster, direct journey. 

Pre-book your shuttle through HolidayTaxis or Welcome Pickups & have your vehicle ready on arrival. This service saves you time & stress, providing a quick & comfortable ride from the airport directly to the beach.

Mooloolaba Beach Surf - Sunshine Coast
Mooloolaba Beach - Sunshine Coast

Australian Travel Information | 7 Essentials You Need To Know

Planning to surf in Australia? Great call, but don’t forget the essentials. The Australian Dollar is the currency, and digital payments are the norm. WiFi and mobile coverage are strong across the coastline, but it’s wise to download offline maps for rural areas. Tap water is clean and safe.

For a full overview of the 7 essentials, including visa tips, emergency services, and local safety guidance, check out our Australia surf page before you go.

Travel Insurance For Your Sunshine Coast Surf Trip

Your flight is canceled, your bag is misplaced, and your board is broken. Not the ideal Australian surf trip in your imagination. These kinds of things happen and without insurance, it’s really expensive.

VisitorsCoverage provides travel insurance and lets you fight the chaos. Medical assistance, thefts, missing items, and cancellations are included in most insurance policies. 

Discover Sunshine Coast: What To Do When The Waves Are Flat

When the surf isn’t on, the Sunshine Coast still has plenty to offer. Explore the scenic hinterland, wander through local markets, or relax with great food and shopping in a peaceful coastal setting. Check out our 4 recommendations below.

For even more experiences, check out GetYourGuide, where you’ll find nature tours, food tastings, wildlife encounters, and relaxing day trips to make the most of your time.

  • Hiking

    Explore Mount Coolum or the Glass House Mountains for breathtaking views of the coast & hinterland.

  • Nature & Wildlife

    Visit Australia Zoo or SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast Aquarium to experience local wildlife.

  • Beaches & Water Activities

    Take a boat trip for some whale watching (seasonal from June to November).

  • Cultural Activities

    Explore local markets, such as the Eumundi Markets, or visit Maleny & Montville for charming boutiques & artisan goods.

Sunrise over Mt. Ngungun in the Glass House Mountains, casting golden light on rolling green hills and lush trees
Mt. Ngungun - Glass House Mountains

Keep Exploring With More Australian Surf Destinations

Bondi Beach

Burleigh Heads

Byron Bay

Caloundra

Coolangatta

Jan Juc

Noosa Heads