Surfing

When it comes to surf breaks in Sydney, the beaches of Bate Bay (Cronulla) provide arguably the most variety and best quality of any other single stretch of coastline. From north to south there are in excess of 24 surf breaks catering for a variety of surfing abilities. From soft easy beach breaks to world class waves at Shark Island and Voodoo this stretch of coastline has it all.

In 2008 Cronulla was declared a National Surfing Reserve.

Key surfing spots

Voodoo

Comprises of predominate left hand reef break of world class standard that can hold massive south swells.

The Alley

The main beach break in the area at North Cronulla beach and the natural rip that occurs at the southern end of the beach makes for consistent sand banks and quality beach break waves. It can get really busy out here so be prepared for a bit of hassling.

Cronulla Point

The birthplace of modern surfing in Cronulla now 50 years ago. The point is one of the only waves in the area that is protected from southerly winds which is a real bonus throughout winter but can get really crowded.

Shark Island

Draws the world’s elite body boarders each year for the Human Shark Island Challenge. It's not recommended you paddle out here at all unless you are an advanced surfer, instead watch the locals take it on from the safety of the esplanade. For the record the Island breaks best on a high tide with a south swell. Best to start your paddle out to the Island from Blackwood's Beach.

Sandshoes/Oak Park

A little jewel on our southern peninsula and provides surfers with a short sharp right hander. It got its name because the surf pioneers of the 1960s, in the days before leg-ropes, wore sandshoes when they surfed because the place is ripe with sea urchins. Works best on a north swell.

The Wall

The Prince Street sea wall, better known as 'the wall' is one of the most accessible, historic and iconic spots for surfers of all abilities. It has lots of parking at the north end and close enough to walk from the train station. This is one of the most popular spots and you can check the conditions without even getting out of your car.

Green Hills

For the adventurous surfer looking to escape the crowds, Green Hills is for you. Protected from the northerly winds and gets all of the southern swell. A great place to check when the conditions are small.

Windy Point/Shelly Beach

Located on the southern side of Shelly Beach, it's a swell magnet although it lives up to it's name and best surfed early mornings before the wind gets up. A family favourite with Shelly Beach rockpool, playground, toilets and cafe all nearby.