Surfing Phillip Island
There are waves on Phillip Island almost always. Thus, it should be no surprise that Victoria became the first National Surfing Reserve. This surfer’s paradise has one of the top surf beaches in the whole country, as well as protected beginning harbours and strong reef breakers.
Get out there and have a blast
Phillip Island is a one-of-a-kind, top-notch location with a strong surfing heritage, consistent waves for all skill levels, and the most incredible surfing in the state. It also has Victoria’s first National Surf Sanctuary. With a wide range of popular spots, from sheltered beginner coves to powerful reef breaks, you will find a place that suits you.
On Phillip Island, you’re guaranteed to get your board on. The waves are rarely too small to surf, and depending on the size of the enormous wave, you can find a sheltered spot in any wind.
Expert surfers should visit the world-class surf island beaches at Cape Woolamai, while beginners may enjoy mellower waves at Smiths Beach and YCW Beach.
If you want to learn how to ride your first colossal wave, the Ocean Reach Brewing is the perfect option. If you don’t need basic surfing skills, rent surfboards, paddle boards, and equipment at the Cowes and Smiths Beach Island Surfboards stores. Surfing is also a popular feature of many Phillip Island tours, offering adventure-seekers a chance to experience the island’s coastal thrills.
Surfing at the Phillip Island National Surf Sanctuary
On Saturday, March 16, 2013, the Phillip Island National Surf Sanctuary was dedicated to past, present, and future beginner or more advanced surfers. The National Surfing Reserves is a voluntary collaboration that recognizes Australia’s fantastic surf spots and assists NSR sites worldwide. The National Surfing Reserve consists of four breaks: Cape Woolamai, Smiths Beach, Summerlands, and Cat Bay.
Popular surf spots
Cape Woolamai
Comprised of world-class beach breaks that are constantly evolving, Woolamai is a unique stretch of beach with many quality surf beach breaks, from Magic Lands to Forest Caves. Sand covers a shallow rocky reef, and seasonal winds and currents create crescent-shaped sand spits ideal for surfing but best suited to experienced surfers.
The Smits
From the island’s first reef break, Express Point, to the gentler waves at Smiths Beach and YCW Beach, where many beginners have found their first epic wave.
Surf schools use Smiths Beach and YCW Beachcomber Beach, where beginners and future stars hone their maneuvers on stable class waves.
Cat Bay
High-quality reef breaks to the left and right allow you to ride epic waves when the island’s south-facing surf beaches are onshore.
The Cat Bay area features multiple reef breaks of different skill levels, with Flynns Reef and Right Point particularly notable.
FAQ
Why is Phillip Island famous for surfing?
Phillip Island is known for its consistent waves, strong surfing heritage, and being home to Victoria’s first National Surf Sanctuary.
What are the best beaches for experienced surfers?
Cape Woolamai offers world-class beach breaks and powerful waves, ideal for seasoned surfers.
Where can beginners learn to surf on Phillip Island?
Smiths Beach and YCW Beach have gentle, sheltered waves perfect for beginners and surf schools.
What is the Phillip Island National Surf Sanctuary?
It’s a protected area established in 2013 that recognises four prime surf breaks: Cape Woolamai, Smiths Beach, Summerlands, and Cat Bay.
Can I hire surfing equipment on the island?
Yes, surfboards, paddle boards, and gear can be rented at shops in Cowes and near Smiths Beach.
