Summary
Tasmania is Australia’s best-kept secret for outdoor adventure and epic waves. Located about 500 km south of Melbourne, this remote island state is a haven for surfers, hikers, and nature lovers alike. With wild coastlines, clean water, and world-class breaks, surfing in Tasmania is a unique experience far from the mainland crowds.
From legendary slabs like Shipstern Bluff to mellow beach breaks like Park Beach, Tasmania offers waves for every level of surfer, all in a raw and rugged natural setting.
Why Surf in Tasmania?
Tasmania may not be the first place that comes to mind when thinking of Australian surf destinations, but that’s exactly why it’s so special. Here’s what makes it stand out:
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Untouched surf spots with little to no crowds
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Heavy, world-class waves for advanced surfers
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Beginner-friendly beach breaks on the east coast
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Cooler climate and dramatic scenery
When to go
The best time to surf in Tasmania depends on what kind of conditions you are looking for. Winter offers bigger and more consistent swells while summer has more enjoyable weather and beginner-friendly waves.
| January-February | March-April | May-June | July-August | September-October | November-December | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Suitable for: | Intermediate Advanced | Intermediate Advanced | Intermediate Advanced | Intermediate Advanced | Intermediate Advanced | Intermediate Advanced |
| Air temperature | 18°C 64°F | 15°C 59°F | 10°C 50°F | 9°C 48°F | 12°C 54°F | 15°C 59°F |
| Water temperature | 16°C 61°F | 15°C 59°F | 14°C 57°F | 12°C 54°F | 10°C 50°F | 14°C 57°F |
| Crowd | Few people | Few people | Empty | Empty | Empty | Few people |
| Swell consistency | 95% | 97% | 100% | 100% | 98% | 95% |
| Swell height | 10ft | 12ft | 12ft | 12ft | 12ft | 10ft |
Getting there
Being its own separate island, Tasmania might be a bit trickier to access than most Australian cities. However, the best way to get to Tasmania is a quick flight into Hobart or taking the ferry from Melbourne to Devonport.
Surf spots in Tasmania
Shipstern Bluff
Shipstern Bluff is a reputable big wave surfing spot located on the southeastern end of Tasmania. On a good day, Shipstern turns into a heavy slab that breaks boards and bones.
- Wave direction : Right
- Bottom : Reef
- Best tide : High
- Skill level : Expert
- Optimal swell direction : SW
- Optimal wind direction : N
Clifton Beach
One of the most accessible surf spots near Hobart, Clifton Beach offers consistent waves with a sandy bottom—great for intermediate and beginner surfers.
- Wave direction : Left & Right
- Bottom : Sand
- Best tide : Mid to High
- Skill level : Beginner to Intermediate
- Optimal swell direction : SE
- Optimal wind direction : NW
Park Beach
Located just north of Hobart, Park Beach is another beginner-friendly spot known for its mellow peaks and forgiving waves.
- Wave direction : Left & Right
- Bottom : Sand
- Best tide : Any
- Skill level : All levels
- Optimal swell direction : SE
- Optimal wind direction : NW