Surfing

The world’s longest beaches are to be found in Western Australia, and conditions here are perfect for surfing. Huge consistent swells and warm weather mean that surfing is a sport to be enjoyed all year round, and in many locations around the state.

Most famous is the Margaret River and Yallingup area to the south of the state. The Roaring Forties create huge swells here, and every year the Margaret River Classic attracts pro surfers from around the globe. Also in the south, Esperance is worth a look with heaps of island and reef breaks. Some of these might need a boat, but it will be worth it when you find that perfect hidden break set up.

Around Perth you’ll find some decent waves at Trigg or Scarborough, but if you’re serious you might want to hop onto a ferry and head out to Rottnest Island. The island blocks much of the swell from reaching the mainland, keeping the best waves for its own shores. Here you’ll find reef breaks on both sides of the island that are two or three feet higher then those around Perth.

The north coast gets its far share of action as well. The strip between Lancelin and Exmouth is pretty much all surfable, being susceptible to the same swells that hit Bali. The surf is great around the coastal towns of Geraldton and Carnarvon, or if you have a four wheel drive you can check out the wild coastline above Kalbarri.