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Guide on to where to surf on the Northern Beaches
Image courtesy of Destination NSW

You’re never too young or old to learn to surf. It is a great way to have fun and keep fit at the same time. First, pick the perfect beach that has small waves that break over sand instead of rocks or reef. Most beaches have shops nearby where you can hire a board or a friendly surf school that will have you standing up in no time. The waves are best early in the day, and you will have more time to practice your new skill.

Get yourself to one of these local beginner friendly beaches.

Collaroy Beach (Southern End)

Where to learn to surf on the Northern Beaches
Image courtesy of Destination NSW

The southern end of Collaroy is much more sheltered than the rest of the beach and if you are heading out it is best in south swells. You will get small rolling waves that are going to give you plenty of time to stand up.

Freshwater Beach

Where to learn to surf on the Northern Beaches
Image courtesy of Destination NSW

Freshwater Beach is the birthplace of Australian surfing and has the perfect waves for beginner to intermediate surfers. This small beach is protected from most swells and tends to have rolling waves that are perfect for beginners.

Long Reef Beach

Where to learn to surf on the Northern Beaches
Image courtesy of Destination NSW

Nestled between Collaroy and Dee Why Beach is Long Reef Beach. There are sand banks that help keep the waves smooth and regular. For absolute beginners, we recommend you head down at low tide where the white water is the best place to start.

Palm Beach (Southern End)

Where to learn to surf on the Northern Beaches
Image courtesy of Destination NSW

For beginners the sheltered southern corner of Palm Beach is a learner’s paradise.  Make sure the swell is coming from the south and you can count on consistent waves that give you plenty of time to conquer the whitewash.

South Steyne, Manly Beach (Southern End)

Where to learn to surf on the Northern Beaches
Image courtesy of Destination NSW

Manly Beach is home to many surfing legends that still call Manly home. Like a lot of the nearby beaches, the waves at South Steyne are best when the swell is coming in from the south.

Learn from the professionals

Surf school's in Sydney
Image courtesy of Destination NSW

Sometimes it is best to learn from the professionals. There are 4 surf schools located on the Northern Beaches – Chix Surf School, Manly Surf School, Dee Why Salty Surf School and Manly Surf Guide.  Your instructor will have you standing up catching waves by the end of your lesson!

Where to hire