Australia
New South Wales
Beginner
Beach break

Surfing Port Stephens: Complete Guide

Port Stephens is a sheltered coastal paradise two and a half hours north of Sydney, with calm, sandy beaches like One Mile and Shoal Bay that are ideal for first-time surfers. Dolphin pods are common and the water stays warmer than Sydney through much of the year.

Wave type
Beach break
Skill level
Beginner
Best season
September – April
Swell
S – E
Wind
Offshore W
Water temp
18–24°C
Crowd
Moderate

Why surf Port Stephens?

Family-friendly beaches, warm protected waters, and a relaxed holiday-town atmosphere with surf schools running daily lessons.

Beginner-friendly?

One Mile Beach and Shoal Bay offer gentle whitewater and long sandy runs — perfect for learning.

Hazards & local knowledge

Gentle waves most days; occasional shore-dump at high tide.

Nearby towns

Shoal Bay • Nelson Bay • Newcastle

Surf schools in Port Stephens on SurfSlot

Port Stephens Surf School

Port Stephens surf school running beginner lessons, kids programs and board and wetsuit hire at One Mile Beach and Shoal Bay.

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Run a surf school in Australia?

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