North Coast, New South Wales
Best months:
February to September

North Coast, New South Wales

New South Wales, Australia
Surfing guide
LAST UPDATED 07/01/2008
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introduction

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Hesperian: IBRA 6.1 NSW North Coast; 2007-02-6

The North Coast is the region in the north-eastern part of the State of New South Wales in Australia. It stretches along the Pacific Ocean shoreline from Port Stephens in the south to Coffs Harbour in the north and has a mild, sub-tropical climate.  Major towns in the area include Coffs Harbour, Byron Bay, Lismore, Ballina, Grafton, Casino, Evans Head and Murwillumbah.

This region of New South Wales contains one of the best collection of right hand point breaks in the world. Some such as Lennox require a serious SE swell to truly work whilst Byron Bay seems to always have a wave - and that's never a bad thing.

 

surfing

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Mjrogers50: Byron Bay; 2004

The North coast of NSW runs from the Clarence River in the south right up to the NSW border.

The points, reefs and beach breaks offer a wealth of potential for the surfer. The general north east lie of the NSW coastline ensures that there is always a spot nearby that will receive excellent exposure to the predominant south to south easterly swell patterns that routinely bomb the coast in winter.

This coast is where the Australian Surfing Legend began with breaks such as Byron Bay, Lennox Head, and Evans Head dotting the passage north.

Lush countryside, quirky towns and rare ancient Australian Rainforest will give you plenty to look at between sessions. 

 

where to stay

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Matt Smith: Byron noserider; 29.12.2005

The north coast of New South Wales has heaps of places to stay, tourism is a major source of income to a lot of the local population. When considering where to stay here, the first place any many travellers list is Byron Bay - it's kind of the hub of the surfing and travelling scene in this region and the vibe could be described here as laid back chaos.

It's reputation as a chilled out hip place to hang out for while and soak up some sun and surf is deserved but this attracts many backpackers which makes the place pretty crowded in peak seasons and booking ahead is strongly advised - especially around Christmas and New Year when prices for beds will soar

All accommodation is available here from modern hotels with beach front views to laid back backpacker hostels that are on the verge of being hippy communes set in rain forest with a very 'arty' vibe, some even offer Didgeridoo lessons and painting workshops.

There are also a pick of campsites and the subtropical climate can make camping a pleasureable experience. 

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