Hitting the waves: Surfing life on the Northern Beaches
Sydney's Northern Beaches boast a long-established surfing culture that has become an integral part of the community's lifestyle. This part of the city takes credit for being the “birthplace of surfboard riding in Australia”, with the story sharing that Australian manufacturers and individuals immediately started making surfboards after a visiting American swim team demonstrated a new way of riding the waves at Avalon and Manly in the 1950s.
With stunning beaches and endless surf breaks, it’s no wonder that surfing enthusiasts from all over the world flock to these shores, and our area produces world champions. From beginners looking to catch their first wave to seasoned surfers seeking the perfect ride, the Northern Beaches offer something for everyone.
Joining the surfing community
The surfing community on the Northern Beaches is very accessible. For those new to the sport, Surfing NSW is an excellent starting point. This organisation offers a range of resources for aspiring surfers, including surf schools and clubs across the region. Their website provides comprehensive information on how to get started, where to find lessons, and how to join local surfing clubs.
Mona Vale Boardriders Club
A prominent fixture in the local surfing community is the Mona Vale Boardriders Club. This inclusive club has a rich history and plays a pivotal role in fostering surfing talent and camaraderie among surfers of all ages. MVBC hosts regular competitions and social events, making it an ideal place for surfers to hone their skills and make lifelong friends.
One notable member of the Mona Vale Boardriders Club is one of our most experienced agents, Ryan Petrie. His active involvement in the club sets the tone for our team’s community activities.
Get your gear
The Northern Beaches are home to numerous stores catering to surfers’ needs, with custom board makers, on-trend clothing stores and surfboard shops in abundance.
Some local shops in Mona Vale include:
Surfing etiquette
When the swell is good, you’ll find a spread of black-clad figures bobbing up and down off Mona Vale, Curl Curl, Long Reef, Freshwater and Manly beach (to name a few).
When the water is crowded, understanding and practising proper surfing etiquette is crucial for a safe and enjoyable experience in the water. Some of the general rules include:
- Don’t try to surf outside of your ability, especially when it’s busy
- Don’t try to paddle out where people are catching waves
- Don’t surf between the flags
- Maintain control of your board
- Give way to the surfer on the ‘inside’ of the wave/closest to where it is breaking
- Take note of the weather and swell when you’re a beginner and don’t surf beyond your abilities.
Local information
Northern Beaches Council provides a wealth of information and resources for surfers. Their website offers details on beach conditions, safety guidelines, and local regulations that surfers need to be aware of.
Learn to surf on the Northern Beaches
There are plenty of surf schools to get you started on your journey to becoming a confident surfer. These include:
- Manly Surf School (offering lessons at Manly, Collaroy, Long Reef and Palm Beach
- Chix Surf School (offering lessons at Freshwater, Mona Vale, Warriewood, Curl Curl and Palm Beach)
Local competitions
Prefer to spectate? That’s great too! Keep an eye out for the:
Australia's home of perfect waves
Surfing life on Sydney's Northern Beaches is more than just a sport; it is a way of life that brings people together and fosters a strong sense of community. Even if you don’t surf, it’s relaxing to watch surfers doing their thing on the water, or exciting to check out a local competition and see the real pros in action.
Are you looking to sell your Northern Beaches home?
We have many keen buyers looking for their perfect home here, and we’re always happy to chat to you about local market trends. Reach out to LJ Hooker Mona Vale today.
