Find the best surf spots on the Gold Coast to plan your surf getaway right
Planning a surf trip to the Gold Coast? Smart move. This place has everything going for it: consistent waves, warm water, and a coastline that welcomes all skill levels. Whether you’re just starting out or already comfortable on a board, you’ll find the right spot.
After your session, kick back at a beachside café and soak up the view.
To help you make the most of your trip, we’ve put together a clear, no-fuss guide with top surf spots, trusted schools, local advice, and the best places to eat, so you can hit the coast with confidence.
Beginner-friendly surf spots
Rainbow bay Gold Coast
– Media credit: peterkingphoto
Address: 2 Ward St, Coolangatta
Lifeguard operating hours: Monday to Sunday, 8AM – 5PM
Beach length: 0.3km
General hazard rating: 5/10 (Moderately hazardous)
Surf zone: 300 m wide
Rainbow Bay is a laid-back gem tucked into the southern end of Coolangatta. It’s a sheltered break that works perfectly for all levels, from total beginners to cruisy longboarders looking for mellow lines.
Off the point, you’ll find clean right-handers that peel gently, making it a great place to build confidence without battling heavy waves. Closer to shore, the inside section stays soft and manageable, ideal for learners just getting their footing.
The water here is clear, the vibe is friendly, and the scenery speaks for itself. You can easily spend the whole day here—surf in the morning, grab lunch nearby, then head back in for a sunset session.
Currumbin Alley
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Address: Queensland, Australia
Lifeguard operating hours: Monday to Sunday, 8AM – 5PM
Beach Length: 0.75km
General Hazard Rating: 6/10 (Moderately hazardous)
Surf zone: 200 m wide
Currumbin Alley is one of those places where everything just feels easy. Tucked beside the Currumbin Creek mouth, the waves roll in gently and keep a nice shape, which makes it perfect if you’re just starting out or want to practice without stress.
Paddle-outs are a breeze, thanks to the protected creekside access, and the waves usually stay mellow, with little chance of getting caught in a gnarly set.
It’s the kind of spot where you can take your time, soak up the sunshine, and get the feel for things without pressure. If you’re keen for a relaxed surf session with laid-back vibes, Currumbin Alley has you sorted.
Bring your longboard, take it slow, and enjoy the flow. This is the kind of place that helps you fall in love with surfing.
Intermediate surf spots
Kirra
– Media credit: kirra.beach.4225
Address: Queensland, Australia
Lifeguard operating hours: Monday to Sunday, 8AM – 5PM
Beach length: 0.2km
General hazard rating: 4/10 (Moderately hazardous)
Surf zone: 300 m wide
Kirra sits right in the heart of Coolangatta and stands as one of the Gold Coast’s most iconic surf zones. Known for its perfect right-handers, it dishes out long, reeling waves that are ideal for surfers looking to challenge themselves.
When the swell is moderate, Kirra becomes a playground for intermediates ready to move beyond the basics. The takeoff can be sharp, but once you’re in, the face opens up for clean lines, speed sections, and even the occasional barrel.
It’s a great place to tighten your turns and get a real feel for how to read a wave. You’re surfing where some of the best in the world have cut their teeth, and that alone adds to the energy in the lineup.
Kirra is peak Gold Coast—raw experience, rewarding, and a must-surf if you’re chasing progression in a place that means something.
Burleigh Heads
– Media credit: burleightourism
Address: Queensland, Australia
Lifeguard operating hours: Monday to Sunday, 8AM – 5PM
Beach length: 0.001km
General hazard rating: 6/10 (Moderately hazardous)
Surf zone: 200 m wide
Burleigh Heads is a true Gold Coast gem and a favorite among locals who know their waves. This right-hand point break runs along the iconic Burleigh headland and offers long, workable walls that are great for building flow.
When the swell isn’t too heavy, it becomes a dream for experienced intermediates looking to step things up. The inside sections are playful and fun, giving you a chance to link smooth turns and fine-tune your timing.
There’s something satisfying about paddling out from the cove, watching sets roll in past the rocks, and picking off clean runners that let you open up.
The vibe in the water is focused but friendly, and with the natural amphitheater of Burleigh Hill nearby, it’s easy to take a break and watch the action.
For a classic Gold Coast session with quality waves and solid progression potential, Burleigh delivers every time.
Advanced surf spots
Snapper Rocks/Superbank
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Address: Snapper Rocks Rd, Coolangatta
Lifeguard operating hours: Monday to Sunday, 8AM – 5PM
Beach length: 0.1km
General hazard rating: 6/10 (Moderately hazardous)
Surf zone: 300 m wide
Sitting at the southern end of Coolangatta, this famed point break marks the beginning of the Superbank, where perfectly groomed waves peel endlessly along the sand.
When conditions align, it dishes out fast, hollow rides that can stretch nearly two kilometers. It’s a wave that demands quick reflexes, clean lines, and plenty of paddle power.
The lineup is packed with keen kids and experienced surfers, all out there chasing the same perfect wave. But don’t let the crowd scare you off, this place is all about experience.
Watching a flawless set roll through while perched on the rocks is unforgettable in itself.
Duranbah (Dbah)
– Media credit: jarvisearle
Address: Carlin Family Park, Tweed Terrace, Tweed Heads
Lifeguard operating hours: Monday to Friday, 8AM – 5PM
Beach length: 0.63km
General hazard rating: 7/10 (Highly hazardous)
Surf zone: 100 m wide
If you’re looking for raw, fast surf with no fuss, Duranbah, or Dbah, is your spot. Just past Snapper Rocks and right near the border, it’s a classic beach break known for its punchy, shifting peaks.
The waves hit hard and change quickly, so you’ll need strong paddling, quick reflexes, and some serious confidence. It’s not as long or lined-up as the points, but it makes up for it with power and unpredictability.
You’ll see everything from shortboarders launching airs to bodyboarders charging steep drops. The lineup is busy but spread out, with different peaks popping up across the beach.
Dbah isn’t the easiest wave on the Gold Coast, but it’s one of the most exciting. If you’re keen to push yourself and catch something with bite, this is the place.
Surf schools for all levels
Go Ride a Wave – Surfers Paradise
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Website: https://gorideawave.com.au/
Address: Paradise Center, Shop/26A Cavill Ave, Surfers Paradise
Contact: +61 1300 132 441
Mail: [email protected]
Business hours: Monday to Sunday, 8AM – 4PM
If you’re keen to tick “surfing in Surfers Paradise” off your list, Go Ride a Wave is a solid place to start. Located right on the beachfront, it’s one of the most accessible surf schools on the Gold Coast.
You don’t need to bring a thing, just show up and they’ll handle the rest, from boards to wetsuits. It’s especially popular with visitors and first-timers, thanks to its relaxed vibe and step-by-step guidance.
The instructors are experienced, balancing technique with lessons on ocean safety and how to read the surf. Whether you’re standing up for the first time or getting your confidence back, the sessions are structured but easygoing.
Plus, being right in the heart of Surfers Paradise means you can hit the waves in the morning, then grab lunch at a nearby café. We’ve put together this guide so you’ve got one less thing to figure out. Just show up and go.
Get Wet Surf School
– Media credit: getwetsurf
Website: https://getwetsurf.com/
Address: 507 Seaworld Dr, Main Beach
Contact: +61 1800 438 938
Mail: [email protected]
Business hours: Monday to Sunday, 9:00AM – 3:30PM
Get Wet Surf School at Main Beach is a great pick if you’re new to surfing and want a laid-back place to learn. It’s set on a quieter stretch of the Gold Coast, away from the usual crowds, with calmer waters that make it easier to get your footing.
The school runs group, private, and family-friendly sessions, so you can bring the whole crew or go solo if you prefer. The instructors keep things light and encouraging, with a focus on safety, basic technique, and simply enjoying your time in the water.
There’s no pressure to perform or compete, just good vibes and steady progress at your own pace. Being based at Main Beach means it’s still close to everything, but with just enough space to learn comfortably.
We’ve flagged this spot for anyone looking to start slow and soak it all in.
Surf tips by experience level
For beginners
- Start on small days, ideally early morning. The wind is calmer and the beaches are less crowded, making it easier to learn.
- Practice on a foam board first. It’s more stable and safer for building your balance and confidence.
- Don’t surf between red and yellow flags. These areas are reserved for swimmers not surfers.
For intermediate to advanced
- Check local forecasts through Swellnet or Coastalwatch. These give reliable updates on swell size, wind, and tides.
- Ride points like Burleigh and Snapper only if you can hold on your own. These breaks demand strong skills and wave awareness.
- If it’s crowded, take a step back and observe first. Blend in smoothly and respect the local rhythm before paddling out.