Surf, Stay and Play

Stay close to the beach and hit the waves whenever the mood strikes, or learn to surf at one of our favourite surf schools. If you've been meaning to up your surfing skills for a while, get to it - you'll be calling everyone "dude" or "bro" in no time!

Byron Bay YHA and Cape Byron YHA

One couldn’t find a more perfect surf town than Byron Bay and if the surf wasn’t enough of a reason, keep in mind the location is home to the Hemsworth brothers! With its ever-looming hipster spirit, breathtaking beaches and laid-back residents; 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 surf spots? The 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. It really doesn't get much better than that!

Where to stay: Port Elliot YHA

Wanna swell-chase off the beaten track? Here are some more of our fave surf spots right by our YHA properties!

• Sydney's northern beaches are arguably some of the best in Australia and, literally across the road, you can't get much closer to the waves than Collaroy Beachouse YHA. They even have surfboards to hire for FREE. So grab a mate, check the swell and hit the surf!

• Surf the waves and stay at Port Macquarie YHA.  Halfway between Sydney and Byron Bay, Port Macquarie YHA is more like a resort than a backpacker hostel. Guests can relax in the poolside cabana, swim, or take a hammock nap under the palm trees. HINT: remember to befriend Cheeky, the resident parrot, in between your beach sessions.

• Newcastle Beach YHA will capture your heart – with pizza nights, barbeque nights and free surfboard hire… you’ll be well fed, well equipped and ready to master the art of surfing! With hourly services from Sydney, you’ll step off the train and into a beachside wonderland whose relaxed atmosphere you just won’t want to leave.

• Pop on over to Coffs Harbour YHA and spend some time kicking back at one of the many beaches Coffs has to offer! No need to pack all your heavy surf gear - just head down to reception and take the waves on a free boogieboard or surfboard!

• 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 is the perfect place to catch a wave or jump on a bike and explore the surrounds. Luckily, 1770 YHA is also just down the road. BINGO!

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