Surfing

What’s the best thing about surfing in Tassie? No crowds! You’ll find some of the most pristine beaches anywhere in the world in Tasmania, and you’re almost guaranteed to get a wave to yourself. All the best surf is along the north and east coasts, and you’ll need to bring your wetsuit since the water here can get a bit nippy, to say the least.

You may have to travel a bit to get to the best spots, but it’s well worth it. On the east coast, you’ll find beach breaks from Orford to Bicheno. This part of the coast is open to the Tasman Sea, so when the winter low pass hits you get some great waves. Around Hobart there are occasionally some waves, even though it’s situated in a bay. The Tasman Peninsula gets some good surf too, especially in the Port Arthur area.

The north coast is right on the Bass Strait, which generates big waves for the beaches along the shore here. Tam O’Shanter is a favourite, north-east of Launceston, as is Mersey Mouth at Devonport. To the north-west, you’ll find the big Southern Ocean swells challenge the best of all surfers.

For those who are prepared to walk, head to South Cape Bay. It’s a seven kilometre trek that many a surfer has made, carrying their board through the World Heritage area of the Southwest National Park. There are seriously big waves here, so put on your walking shoes and get going!