Phillip Island is off the coast of Melbourne and one of Australia’s most popular surf spots. With pristine sands, consistent waves and a chill vibe, it’s the perfect place for all levels of surfers. Whether you’re an experienced surfer or a beginner looking to catch your first wave, Phillip Island has a surf spot for you. World-class beach breaks, sheltered bays, and powerful reef breaks make it a surfer’s heaven. In this article, we’ll cover the top surf spots, the island’s surf culture, weather and the best surfing experiences Phillip Island has to offer.
Surfer’s Paradise
Phillip Island has a variety of surf beaches, including iconic spots like Cape Woolamai, Surf Beach, YCW Beach and Smiths Beach. With consistent waves, a beautiful coastline and wild surf beaches, the island has something for everyone – from beginner bays for gentle waves to challenging reefs and powerful point breaks for advanced surfers. Stunning rock pools, pristine sands and a never-ending beach, Phillip Island is a must-see for surfers. Whether you’re heading to the changing world-class beach breaks of Woolamai Surf Beach or the gentle sheltered break at Smiths Beach, you’ll find epic surf experiences throughout the island.
Surfing Culture
Surfing has been part of Phillip Island’s culture for decades. From the surfers of old to the modern-day wave riders, the island’s surf community has survived the dramatic coastlines and ever-changing weather. The island is home to the Phillip Island National Surfing Reserve, a section of coastline that celebrates the island’s world-class waves and its surf culture. Locals and visitors alike enjoy the fun social atmosphere at spots like Summerland Beach and Flynns Beach, where surfers gather for casual surf sessions, beach games and even beach fishing during the summer holidays.
Top Surf Spots on the Island
Phillip Island has some of the best surf in Australia. Each surf spot on the island has its own unique characteristics, so you can try different styles of waves. All of these spots are easy to get to and have stunning scenery and a welcoming vibe for surfers of all levels.
Cape Woolamai: The Surfing Jewel
Cape Woolamai is one of the most famous and toughest surf spots on Phillip Island. Known for its powerful reef breaks and left-hand point breaks, Woolamai is a must for experienced surfers. The waves here can get up to 6ft, so there is plenty of opportunity for advanced surfers to show off. The beach is a mix of dramatic coastlines, golden sand and towering basalt rocks along the shore. It’s a sight to behold for surfers and photographers. Despite the challenge, Cape Woolamai is one of the most popular surf beaches on the island and attracts surfers from around the world to experience its beautiful and consistent beach breaks.
Smiths Beach: Beginners Only
Smiths Beach is a great beginner surf spot, with mellow waves and a sheltered break perfect for those just starting out. This beginner-friendly bay is one of the most popular spots on the island for surf schools and new surfers. With its consistent small to medium-sized swell, it’s a safe and fun place to learn the basics of surfing. Surf schools like Phillip Island Surf School offer lessons here so new surfers can learn in a safe, guided environment. The calm water and sheltered break make it one of the best places on the island to catch your first wave.
Surf and Weather Guide
Phillip Island has a Mediterranean climate, so it’s a surf destination all year round. The summer months (December to February) have warm weather, big swells, and offshore winds that are perfect for surfing. You’ll get plenty of sun, but it’s wise to pack a summer wetsuit for those cooler mornings. In winter, the wind picks up and brings more ground swells and bigger surf to the island. Make sure to check the current swell and tides before you head out so you get the best surf possible.
Gear and Rentals
Surfing Events
Phillip Island has several surf comps throughout the year. Local surfers, international competitors and surfers from around the world come to the island for these events. The National Surfing Reserve and world-class beach breaks provide the perfect setting for major comps. Events like the Phillip Island Surf Festival and the Bass Coast Shire Council Surf Series attract the best surfers to surf the island’s most famous waves at Surf Beach, Pyramid Rock and Cape Woolamai, making them a highlight of many Phillip Island tours.
FAQ
Where are the best surf spots for beginners on Phillip Island?
Smiths Beach, YCW Beach and Shelly Beach are the best beginner spots on the island, with mellow waves and sheltered breaks.
Where is the best surf spot on Phillip Island for advanced surfers?
Cape Woolamai and Flynns Reef are the best for advanced surfers looking for some swell.
When’s the Best Time to Be Here?
Summer (Dec to Feb) is the best time for beginners, smaller swells and offshore winds. Winter (June to Aug) is bigger swells, better for experienced surfers.
Where can I hire surf gear on Phillip Island?
Island Surfboards in Cowes is the best spot to hire surf gear, surfboards, wetsuits and accessories.
What are the wind conditions like on Phillip Island?
Summer has offshore winds and clean and perfect surfing conditions. Winter has gusty, westerly winds that are a bit more challenging for surfers.
