Top surf spots near Byron Bay

If you're headed to Byron Bay, you're in for a treat. This place isn't just a beach town; it's a surfer's paradise. Whether you're a newbie or a seasoned pro, Byron Bay has something for everyone. So grab your board and let’s dive into the best surf spots near Byron Bay and find out which one’s perfect for your skill level. From ‘The Wreck’ which is great for beginners, to ‘The Pass’, ‘Wategos’ and ‘Belongil Beach’, you’re spoilt for choice in this lovely part of the world.

1. The Pass: Intermediate to Advanced

Let's kick things off with The Pass, arguably Byron Bay's most famous surf spot. Located just east of the main beach, The Pass offers a long, peeling right-hand point break that can give you rides up to 200 meters long. It's perfect for those who have moved past the beginner stage and are ready to take on some more challenging waves. The wave quality here is fantastic, but be prepared for a crowd, especially during peak season. Early mornings are your best bet to snag some epic waves without too much competition.

2. Wategos Beach: All Levels

Next up, we've got Wategos Beach. This spot is super versatile and caters to all levels of surfers. It's a bit more sheltered than The Pass, making it ideal for beginners when the swell is small, but still fun for intermediate and advanced surfers when the waves pick up. The vibe here is laid-back, and the scenery is absolutely stunning – think lush greenery meeting golden sands. It’s a great spot to practice your skills or just enjoy a cruisy session with a breathtaking backdrop.

3. Main Beach: Beginners

If you’re just starting out, Main Beach is your go-to spot. Located right in front of Byron Bay town, this beach offers gentle waves that are perfect for learning the ropes. You’ll find plenty of surf schools here, so it’s a great place to book a lesson or rent a board if you don't have your own. The waves are generally smaller and more forgiving, which is exactly what you need when you're beginning your surfing journey. Plus, the vibe is super friendly and welcoming – perfect for newbies!

4. Tallows Beach: Advanced

Feeling confident and ready to tackle some serious surf? Head over to Tallows Beach. This spot is exposed to the south and can get pretty wild, so it’s best suited for advanced surfers who are comfortable in bigger, more powerful waves. The beach is less crowded than The Pass, offering more space to carve up the waves. But beware – the rips can be strong here, so make sure you’re well-prepared and always surf with a buddy.

5. Belongil Beach: Intermediate

Last but not least, there’s Belongil Beach. This stretch of coastline is less crowded than the main spots in Byron, making it a hidden gem for intermediate surfers. The waves here are consistent and fun, offering a variety of peaks to choose from. It's a great place to work on your technique without the hustle and bustle of the more popular beaches. Plus, the laid-back vibe of Belongil makes it a perfect spot to chill out after a solid surf session.

Final Tips for Surfing in Byron Bay

• Respect the locals: Always be mindful of local surfers and the unwritten rules of the lineup.
• Check the conditions: Before you head out, make sure to check the surf report. Conditions can change quickly, so it’s good to be prepared.
• Stay safe: Know your limits and always surf within them. If you're unsure about the conditions, it's better to sit one out than to risk injury.

But there’s more to surfing in the Shire than Byron Bay. Strap the boards on top and drive north to surf beaches such as North Brunswick, South Brunswick and New Brighton Beach. Or go south for great surfing at Suffolk Park, Broken Head (both North and South), Kings Beach, New Brighton Beach and Golden Beach.

Sound fun? Time to gather the crew and organise your next surfing trip. And you’ll be in good company too, with some very famous surfers forming part of the history of surfing in Byron Bay.

And we’ve got your accommodation needs covered. Reflections Byron Bay is just a 10-minute’ walk from the heart of Byron Bay. Or for the excellent surf beaches of Brunswick Heads, stay at Reflections Ferry Reserve, Reflections Massey Greene or Reflections Brunswick Heads, all with stunning water views. Find more fantastic things to do in the Byron region here

See you on the next wave!