Surf, Stay and Play

Australia. Home to dazzling beaches and top-tier surf. If you've been meaning to up your board skills for a while, this summer is the perfect time. We’ve combed through our properties to find some of the best YHAs to stay close to the beach and hit the waves whenever the mood strikes. There's also heaps of oppurtunities to learn at one of the local surf schools, so whether you're a seasoned wave rider or have barely got your feet wet, read on, my dude. 

Byron Bay YHA and Cape Byron YHA

You couldn’t find a more perfect surfing town than Byron Bay if you tried, and if the surf wasn’t enough of a reason, the good vibes sure will be. With its ultra-laid back hippie heritage, breathtaking beaches and immaculate offshore breaks; this is nature's perfect classroom. Boasting super affordable surf lessons with all equipment provided, you won't break the bank when you catch some waves.

Where to stay: Byron Bay YHA 

Port Elliot YHA

If you're itching to catch some South Australian waves, what better way to learn than at one of SA's best surf spots? The windswept coastline near the beautiful town of Port Elliot features world-class surf breaks and access to some of the best surf schools in the country. The entire Fleurieu Peninsula is also absolutely gorgeous, so that helps, and the local YHA is among our highest rated in the country. For a surf-centric holiday, it really doesn't get much better than this!

Where to stay: Port Elliot YHA

Learn to surf or ride solo in style at Port Macquarie, halfway between Sydney and Byron Bay. Port Macquarie is a proper coastal gem that's home to an abundance of dolphins and, at the right time of year, whales. Port Macquarie YHA is renowned for its quirky charm and amazing hospitality, and they have offer awesome $30 sunrise surfing experience to kick off your morning with a splash. 

Where to stay: Port Macquarie YHA

Just a couple of hours north of Sydney, Newcastle will capture your heart. This rapidly evolving industrial town now packs a real punch on the arts, music and cuisine fronts. It's also home to internationally renowned beaches, so once you're well fed and thoroughly entertained, you should take the opportunity to get out and master the art of surfing! Newcastle Beach YHA is a favourite of surfers, and they offer free surf and boogie board hire, so everyone can get in on the fun!

Where to stay: Newcastle Beach YHA

Tick surfing off your travel bucket list at one of Australia's most iconic beaches - 1770 Agnes Water. Located on the untouched surf coastline north of Fraser Island and south of the Whitsundays, this hidden gem was eyeballed by Captain Cook on his way up the Queensland coast and still probably looks the same as it did then. It's the perfect place to catch a wave or jump on a bike and explore the surrounds – and you can source both bits of gear from the crew at reception. 

Where to stay: 1770 YHA

Surf's up and so are your options for a hectic surf-filled weekend. Get amongst it this summer!