The Best Places to SUP in Australia
Want to SUP in Australia but not sure where to go? Check out this Perfect Paddles list of the best places in Australia!
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The country of Australia is an outdoor lover's dream. The continent is known for its wide open beaches. Some of the best waves in the world. Barren deserts full of wildlife only native to the country. And thick forested trees that line the outskirts of some of the most beautiful modern cities in the world.
Australia is also known to have a low population density especially in the untapped wildlife refuges. That means much of the coastline remains in pristine condition, with large portions of it being uncrowded for the adventure paddler. Once on the water however, is where you can expect to see most of the action in the form of dolphins, whales, and an abundance of fish species.
With so much going for Australia, we can definitively say it is worth the long flight to visit, or if you are an Australian native - get out there and explore!
This list is composed of some of the best launch locations for an epic SUP adventure in Australia.
-Perfect Paddles Travel Brief-
Best Time of Year to Visit:
The best travel time to stand up paddle board in Australia is during their summer seasons. Unlike the Northern Hemisphere locations, Australia's summer takes place December 1st through the end of February. (www.tripsavvy.com)
Average Temperature:
The average temperatures for summer in Australia range from 80 degrees Fahrenheit to 95 degrees.
Seasons
For the paddlers in the northern hemisphere, it’s important to note the seasons in Australia are the opposite of what you will experience. For example, during the winter in the Northern Hemisphere, it is summer in Australia. However, we don’t want to totally fry your brain by trying to think about Christmas in the summer, so we should also note that Australia is a large country. And with such a large coastline comes a variety of weather conditions year-round depending on your location.
From September to April, it is best to visit the states of Tasmania, New South Wales, and Victoria. In January, the average temps in these areas range from 71-78 degrees Fahrenheit.
However, if you do happen to visit during the winter months, don’t be discouraged from paddling! The winters in Australia are often not as chilly as it is in the Northern Hemisphere areas like the United States and Eruope. The average temperatures in July range from 54-65 degrees Fahrenheit in places like Sydney, Melbourne, and Hobart, Tasmania.
On the western coast and Queensland you will find warmer temperatures year-round for paddle boarding. Just a word of caution - visit these areas during June to September as these waters can be full of jellyfish the rest of the year!
SUP Environments to Paddle In
Marinas
Bay
Ocean
Lakes
Rivers
Australia has it all!
SUP Activity Highlights:
Excursions
Tours
Wildlife Tours
Eco-Tours
Glow Paddles
SUP Yoga
Wildlife Paddles:
Australia is known for its diverse wildlife. To see it all from a unique perspective be sure to take part in a wildlife excursion while you are there!
Special Note: It is always best to be aware of the tremendous variation in marine life in Australia. As a few of these locations are in undeveloped parts of Australia, you should know there are saltwater crocodiles in the northern waters of Australia which include coastal areas. On occasion some will swim up the freshwater rivers as well.
To avoid any problems with the local wildlife, we recommend you reach out to one of our paddling professionals below to gain any local knowledge they may have on the area you plan on paddling. Or they may even provide you with a tour!
Local knowledge on areas around the world are the best ways to get familiar with anything that can happen on and off the water. Be prepared for whatever may come with a short conversation with a local paddling pro!
Interested in any of these extra activities? Be sure to head HERE to find a list of paddle pros in the area and what they offer!
Perfect Paddles Shops/Outfitters Near the Locations:
- Work Out on Water (Sydney)
- flow mOcean (Sydney)
- WatSUP Watson's Bay Paddle Boarding (Sydney)
- Stand Up Paddle HQ (Melbourne)
- Sun Seekers SUP (Melbourne)
- Rainbow Beach Surf School (Queensland)
Member Deals: Don’t forget to take advantage of our fantastic Member Deals for exclusive discounts for our members! To become a member head HERE.
Additional Attractions:
Great Barrier Reef Snorkeling and Diving Cruise: Great Barrier Reef diving and snorkeling Cruise from Cairns. Both day boats and pontoons offer snorkeling with the optional extra of scuba diving. Scuba diving you will wear a scuba tank on your back and breathe compressed air underwater for just over 40 minutes. Scuba diving is easy and a really enjoyable way to explore the Great Barrier Reef .
Rainforest Day Trips: Experience three of Northern Queensland’s most impressive natural wonders in one tour. Visit the Mossman Gorge and discover the region’s Aboriginal heritage as you take part in a traditional Kuku Yalanji smoke ceremony. Continue to Cape Tribulation for a spectacular view over the Great Barrier Reef, then journey into the heart of the UNESCO-protected Daintree Rainforest and spot wildlife on a Daintree River cruise
Litchfield Natural Park: Litchfield National Park, covering approximately 1500 km 2, is near the township of Batchelor, 100 km south-west of Darwin, in the Northern Territory of Australia
Royal Botanical Gardens (Melbourne): Visit Melbourne's inner-city oasis. Over 10,000 plant species from around the world are presented in a kaleidoscope of colour and texture. Sweeping lawns, tranquil lakes and majestic trees are home to an amazing range of wildlife.
National Gallery of Victoria: The National Gallery of Victoria, popularly known as the NGV, is an art museum in Melbourne, Victoria, Australia. Founded in 1861, it is Australia's oldest and most visited art museum.
Art Gallery of New South Wales (Sydney): The Art Gallery of New South Wales (AGNSW), founded as the New South Wales Academy of Art in 1872 and known as the National Art Gallery of New South Wales between 1883 and 1958, is located in The Domain, Sydney, Australia. It is the most important public gallery in Sydney and one of the largest in Australia.
Double Island Point at Rainbow Beach
Located deep in the Great Sandy National Park is a place called Double Island Point. What makes this location special is the fact that it’s a hidden gem, known mostly by the locals only.
This exclusivity also makes it a great place to SUP. That and the tropical crystal clear water and the abundance of wildlife. Upon arrival you would think you’ve been transported to the Caribbean. The waters sparkle in a turquoise color unlike almost any other location in Australia. And the fact that it is difficult to get to makes it the perfect place to experience SUP in Australia at an (almost) private beach!
For an absolutely epic adventure we highly suggest booking a tour with the Rainbow Beach Surf School. Instead of having to secure transport to this location, they will take everything you need in their 4x4 vehicles from Noosa and directly to Rainbow Beach. Once there, they will unload the boards, show you a thing or two about technique (if need be), and get you paddling on the beautiful waters all before the afternoon.
This is truly an adventure in one of the most beautiful beaches Australia has to offer.
Half Moon Bay, Victoria
Australia’s second largest city is, of course, Melbourne. When most people visit Melbourne and they want to include a beach day into their itinerary, they usually flock to the sands of St. Kilda Beach. With good reason! St. Kilda is easily one of the most beautiful beaches around Melbourne. Here, the conditions are usually calm making it a great place to paddle if you are looking for a relaxing time.
However, if you want to avoid the crowds and experience a piece of Australia most don’t, then we suggest you head down to Half Moon Bay.
It’s located 12 miles south of the city center and derives its name from the crescent shape of which it resembles. What makes this a great place to SUP? Given its unique shape, the wind and the waves are largely not a factor here. And what makes it the most interesting place to SUP around Melbourne is the shipwreck sitting in the middle of the bay.
The HMVS Cerberus sank here in 1926 and has made for an interesting excursion for paddlers to head towards off the coast. And with calm waters and plenty of sunshine, the excursion is worth the effort.
Palm Cove, Far North Queensland
A large village located on a small bay, Palm Cove is a common starting point for tourists wanting to explore the Great Barrier Reef and the surrounding area. An excellent location for beginners and experienced SUP boarders alike, Palm Cove offers year-round water temperature in the mid 20's (Celsius) and consistent winds making it perfect for SUP boarding.
Plus, look at that view! Palm Cove is easily one of the most beautiful locations for SUP in Australia for doing just about anything at all! But a chance to see this amazing piece of coast from atop your SUP is not to be missed. You will spend the entire day admiring the beauty of Palm Cove while relaxing under a palm tree.
Mission Beach, Far North Queensland
Located further north than Palm Cove this beach is ideal for SUP in Australia. Especially if you want to explore the beautiful reefs. With over 100 species of coral living in the waters here most are within easy range of shore. And some, like the fire coral and the dead man's fingers (tubastrea faulkneri) can be seen from shore.
Just one word of caution - this location is very tropical. That means it can be hot, especially during the summer season. If you plan on visiting here, always make sure you are wearing a strong sunscreen. Especially if you are planning on spending long amounts of time on the water. However, please make sure your sunscreen is reef safe. Over the years, through pollution, the reefs in Australia have taken a bit of a hit. This mainly due to plastics in the ocean, however, sunscreen is another hidden killer of the reefs. With a reef safe sunscreen you'll be protecting your skin while at the same time, protecting the beautiful reefs in Australia.
Exmouth, Western Australia
The pictures of beaches you see online or on postcards in Australia usually share some common traits - brilliant white sand, crystal clear blue water, and a never-ending stretch of coastline that hits the horizon and seems to never drop off. They’re beautiful pictures.
Well, did you know, most of those famous pictures are of Exmouth and the surrounding beaches of the Western Australian coastline?
It’s true! The beaches at places like Sandy Bay and Turquoise Bay are some of the most stunning areas you will visit. And not just in Australia, but around the world. Whether the conditions are good for SUP or not on a particular day shouldn’t persuade you from a visit. You must check out these locations and see for yourself.
But on those days where the wind is blowing strong, you can also head to Yardie Creek as a foul-weather alternative. The Yardie Creek Gorge is an excellent spot to drop in surrounded by red limestone cliffs.
Bonus: Hike the 1.2 miles to the top of the gorge cliffs and take in the sunset from the best seat in the house!
Cable Beach, Broome
A SUP boarder's dream for SUP in Australia, Cable Beach is located in Broome. Cable Beach offers SUP boarders year-round waves with which they can surf down the long stretch of exposed reef. Along the length of cable beach, SUP boarders can be seen riding alongside kite-surfers as everyone enjoys the long stretch of protected reef. There are even local rental companies right near the beach that offer SUP hire for those who want to explore this beautiful location.
If you are not experienced as a SUP surfer, we should say that it is best to avoid this crowded lineup. Especially on a SUP. Some Australian surfers can be territorial when it comes to local breaks, so, to avoid any issues, stay in the shallows, or head down the beach where the break is not as great. It's a beautiful spot to SUP, so don't feel dissuaded from exploring. It's just a great idea to avoid any issues with the locals!
Emu Bay, South Australia
The water temperature here is a little cooler than the rest of our locations for SUP in Australia, but it's more than made up for in crystal clear waters and a huge variety of fish to be seen. This bay is a bit of a secret that not everyone knows about and you can sometimes find yourself along with the stunning waters all to yourself.
Well, maybe not entirely alone. But there is a good chance this particular spot will not be as crowded as a few other locations on this list. If you are looking for a private time in an environment where the water may not be as warm, but the beaches are less crowded, this is the place to go!
Port Stephens, New South Wales
Port Stephens is an estuary that has a deep channel running from it to the ocean. This calm, flat water, makes it an excellent place for SUP in Australia. The only downside? Port Stephens can be somewhat popular for tourists. So that means - expect a crowd.
However, it shouldn't dissuade you from checking this location out. Once you go, you'll understand why it's a popular spot - white sandy beaches, and clear blue water. A truly picturesque location for any SUP enthusiast to enjoy. In addition, it is only a short drive from Newcastle so you can use this location as a day trip if need be!
Apollo Bay, Victoria
Located along the Great Ocean Road Apollo Bay is sandwiched in between several fantastic spots for surf. If SUP surfing is your thing, we would recommend a visit here. You can often find great waves, or at least information from locals on where the great waves are breaking that day.
Most days though, Apollo Bay is flatware paddling at its finest. The main attraction here is the beach path that runs both north and south along the shore with an easy access point on the southern end. There are plenty of ways to explore Apollo Bay and that is why it makes it onto our list!
The Bay Of Islands, New South Wales
The Bay of Islands is our next location for SUP in Australia. Located on the Pacific Ocean it is popular with long-boarders and SUP boarders alike. It offers many flat areas to explore around the coastline and for those up for a faster ride, there are larger waves closer to the shore that is known to break overhead high! Of course, only head into the breaks if you are well qualified and have a few surfing trips underneath your belt!
The Bay of Islands is also only about an hour's drive away from Byron Bay itself if you are looking to spend more time there, another popular area for SUP boarding due to its clear water and protected coves that offer sheltered conditions.
Roebuck Bay, Broome, Western Australia
This is one of the most beautiful places to SUP in Australia. Just look at the picture below! It's truly a unique landscape that is prime for exploring on a SUP.
In addition, there are a ton of hotels and hostels that will let you store your board in their garages or outdoor areas if you want to bring it back the same day.
Broome is also home to some of the best SUP companies in the area. Take a tour, relax on the beach, and take it all in on your stop here at Roebuck Bay.
Fairy Bower and Shelly Beach, New South Wales
The beaches in Sydney are often described as being so perfect they belong in a travel magazine. However, the waves are more suitable for seasoned surfers than they are for stand up paddlers. This is due to the size and crowded lineups in the water. If you have not paddled and surfed in other famous breaks around the world, we suggest taking your SUP instead to Fairy Bower. It is located just south of the more famous Manly Beach on the north shore.
This location and the adjacent Shelly Beach are part of the Cabbage Tree Bay Aquatic Reserve - a protected area with more than 160 species of fish. The cool part - many of the fish are visible from shallow waters. Combine that with the bird’s eye view your SUP provides and you’re in for a fun afternoon spotting the aquatic species from your board!
After a day of SUP in Australia, you can always take some time to relax in the Fairy Bower pool - a rock pool cut into the edge of the coastline. This unique spot is perfect for a day of recovery before heading out onto your next adventure.
Palm Beach, New South Wales
Outside of the bustling city streets of Sydney lies Palm Beach. This spot is a laid-back, quiet town that Australia has become known for. This location is only about an hour and half away from Sydney if you take public transport. While a bit of a hike, it’s worth the day trip.
The beach itself is a little under a mile and a half long with most paddle boarders congregating in the south end that is protected by the cliffs of Barrenjoey Head.
If you decide to visit anywhere between May and November, you may be able to spot a humpback whale as they migrate along the coast this time of the year. In addition, the Australian-exclusive species of kangaroos and wallabies are native to the areas surrounding the beach. This is probably your best chance to see them in the wild.
And for those who enjoy a bit of a challenge (and are experienced in waves!) you can head down to the north end of the beach for some of the best waves to play on in the area.
Currumbin Creek, Queensland
If you happen to find yourself in Queensland on your Australian adventure, then we have a few suggestions for you. Especially if you want to SUP in Australia.
First, if you want to SUP, then the best route to take is to start at the sheltered beach called “The Alley” where you can paddle along the estuary full of open beaches and waterfront mansions. For most of the 8.6 mile paddling trip, this will be your view. That is until…
You eventually hit the rainforests where you will come face-to-face with the wilds of Australia. If a variety of scenery is your pleasure, this is the route for you.
Derwent Valley, Tasmania
Tasmania is the island that sits off the southern coast of Australia. It is known for it’s beautiful mountain landscapes that have largely remained unspoiled throughout the years. And that makes it a fantastic place to SUP in Australia.
Just outside of the capital of Hobart, there lies of the Derwent Valley. Here you can access the local river where you can float through the island’s mountainous central highlands and world heritage area. Along the way you will be able to spot hop fields and restored historic coast houses where locally grown crops are grown, dried, and used for making beer. Enjoy a pint back in Hobart after a long day of paddling under the sun!
The Australian SUP-fun Continues!
Australia has a ton to offer the outdoor enthusiast. Especially when it comes to SUP. Do you have a favorite Australia launch location? Or maybe a travel story you’d like to share? Then let us know! We would love to share your stories with the rest of our Perfect Paddles community.
While you’re here, check out these additional Australia resources on SUP:
Top Spots to Try Stand Up Paddle Boarding in Australia
5 Great Outfitters in Australia for SUP Yoga
5 Great Places to SUP on Australia's Western Coast
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