Waves, Culture, and Pure Stoke Surfing down under isn’t just a pastime—it’s a way of life. From point breaks that peel for days to hidden beach gems surrounded by nature, Australia and New Zealand are home to some of the most unforgettable surf spots on Earth. These are my top 10 picks—places I’ve surfed, soaked up the vibe, and never forgotten.  

🇳🇿 1. Raglan, New Zealand – The Soul of Kiwi Surf

If New Zealand had a surf capital, Raglan would be it. Manu Bay’s long, left-hand point break is a dream for anyone who loves flow. It’s mellow but powerful, with that classic, cruisy vibe. Add in the town’s laid-back, artsy feel and it’s easy to see why surfers never want to leave.  

🇳🇿 2. Whangamata – East Coast Perfection

Tucked into the Coromandel Peninsula, Whangamata offers everything from beginner-friendly beachies to the famous Whanga Bar—a sand-bottomed point that fires when the banks are right. It’s a classic Kiwi summer surf town: warm, welcoming, and always buzzing when a swell hits.  

🇳🇿 3. Taupo Bay – Northland’s Hidden Gem

Up in Northland, Taupo Bay is lesser known but unforgettable. White sand, clear water, and a beautiful headland that catches a solid swell. It’s peaceful, uncrowded, and perfect for longboarders and cruisers chasing that glassy morning peel.  

🇳🇿 4. Takou Bay – Wild and Remote

One of the most scenic and raw surf spots in Aotearoa, Takou Bay is tucked away in the Far North. With minimal crowds and wide-open beaches, it’s for those who love surf missions and scoring waves with just a few mates (and maybe some curious dolphins).  

🇦🇺 5. Noosa, QLD – Longboard Paradise

Noosa’s point breaks are legendary. On a clean east swell, the waves wrap around the headland offering buttery rides that feel like they go forever. First Point is perfect for longboards, and the vibe in the lineup? Pure stoke. Throw in the national park backdrops and you’ve got magic.  

🇦🇺 6. The Pass, Byron Bay – Iconic & Endless

The Pass is one of those waves you can surf ten times and still want more. Long right-handers, crystal-clear water, and a mix of locals, travelers, and surf-lifers. It gets busy, but the rides and scenery are 100% worth it. A must-surf if you’re in the Byron area.  

🇦🇺 7. Alexandra Headlands, Sunshine Coast – Homegrown Favorite

The “Alex” point is reliable, especially when the east swell kicks in. It’s got something for everyone—mellow rights, punchy peaks, and a real community vibe. I’ve had some of my most fun, cruisy sessions here. It’s one of those spots that just feels like home.  

🇦🇺 8. Cylinder Beach, North Stradbroke Island – Island Gold

Straddie is an island escape with serious wave quality. Cylinder Beach can get world-class when it’s firing—crystal-clear tubes, powerful rights, and not too crowded if you pick the right window. The ferry ride over adds to the adventure. This is one of SE QLD’s best-kept secrets.  

🇳🇿 9. St Kilda’s Beach, Dunedin – Southern Swell Magnet

Cold water, dramatic cliffs, and raw southern energy—St Kilda’s is as real as it gets. Dunedin gets plenty of swell, and St Kilda’s beach break can dish out heavy peaks and powerful rides. Rug up, respect the locals, and you’ll be rewarded.  

🏄‍♂️ 10. The One That Keeps You Coming Back...

Every surfer has that one place that keeps calling them back. For me, it’s a mix of these spots. Each one has its own energy—whether it’s the dreamy lines of Raglan, the tropical calm of Noosa, or the wild magic of Takou Bay. What unites them all is that feeling you only get when you paddle out, catch your first wave, and think: yep, this is it.  

🌅 Final Word: Chase the Feeling

Whether you’re chasing perfect points or discovering secret beaches, Australia and New Zealand have waves for every style and every level. These spots aren’t just on my list because the waves are good (though they are). They’re here because they remind me why I surf: for the connection, the calm, the freedom. Got a favorite spot of your own? Drop it in the comments and let’s keep the stoke flowing.