1. Diggers Beach, NSW

This is our home beach, and it holds a special place in our hearts. During 2020–2022, before we hit the road, we spent countless hours surfing, swimming, and soaking in everything this place has to offer. Diggers is never the best wave in town, but it’s never the worst either. It’s the kind of place where people come to learn and have fun—there’s always laughter in the water as beginners take on their first waves. Surrounded by headlands and mountains, the setting is simply stunning, making it an easy choice for this list.

2. Wobiri, WA

The only sandy beach with surf in Exmouth, Wobiri offers a gentle and accessible wave without the challenge of navigating a reef. It’s the smallest and most forgiving break in the area, making it a favorite for those looking for an easygoing session. What really stood out to us was the welcoming local surf group that meets weekly—they were some of the kindest and most inclusive people we’ve met. The easy parking and the fact that you can actually swim here (unlike at Dunes or Hunters) make it even better.

3. Torquay, VIC

A legendary surf town, Torquay competes with Coolangatta and Margaret River as the true home of Australian surfing. We had an unforgettable session at Impossibles on a Monday morning, where the community vibe was nothing short of amazing. Even on a packed Saturday with 300 people in the water, there was a mutual understanding—everyone was there to have fun and look out for each other. The energy in Torquay is something special, and it’s no wonder so many surfers call it home.

4. Agnes Water, QLD

One of the most family-friendly beaches we’ve ever been to, Agnes Water is a gem. Nestled in a headland with a north-facing, protected beach, it offers easy swimming and fun, forgiving waves that are perfect for beginners. Beyond the surf, there’s a beautiful grassy area where kids play and, if you’re lucky, live music on the weekends. A beachfront café serves up some great food, and the combination of trees, headlands, and crystal-clear water makes this spot absolutely perfect.

5. Coolum, QLD

Despite being an open beach in the bustling Sunshine Coast region, Coolum always feels welcoming. Maybe we’ve just been lucky, but every time we’ve surfed here, the energy has been relaxed and friendly. The moment you step from civilization onto the sand, there’s an immediate shift—it’s beach time. The no-fuss, look-after-your-mates attitude in the water makes Coolum stand out.

6. Gracetown, WA

One of our favorite waves in WA, Gracetown gave us serious Bali vibes. It’s a reef/rock bottom wave, but during the three weeks we surfed there, it was low and slow—perfect for newer surfers and surf schools. The consistent left and right options made it a dream to surf. Sandwiched between two headlands with more performance-oriented waves, there was always something happening in this tiny surf town. And post-surf, the local store was the perfect spot to grab some treats.

7. Bicheno, TAS

Bicheno was a surprise, but it quickly became a favorite. We got comfortable surfing the right off the rocks, and it was an incredible place to shoot. Every time Ella paddled out, she found someone keen for a chat, which added to the easygoing, friendly vibe of the place. A small village on Tasmania’s east coast, Bicheno is a must-visit for anyone looking for relaxed waves and good company.

8. Cabarita, NSW

At first glance, you might think Cabarita isn’t welcoming—the “Locals Only” graffiti on the headland sets a certain tone. But our experience was the opposite. We spent two weeks surfing here and had some of the best conversations with locals, meeting heaps of surfing families along the way. Maybe the town is learning to embrace the economic benefits of being a welcoming surf destination, or maybe the locals have just mellowed out. Whatever the reason, the vibes were unexpectedly great.

9. Whartons Beach, WA

Just outside Esperance, Whartons is one of Australia’s premier beaches. It’s also one of the best beaches to drive on, so if you want a good spot, get there early. Despite being busy, everyone seems to be on the same page—soaking in one of Australia’s most pristine natural environments and having a great time in the surf. Since most people aren’t locals, there’s an unspoken agreement to treat the place with respect, which makes for an incredible experience both in and out of the water.

10. Broulee, NSW

Broulee is an incredible surf village about 30 minutes south of Batemans Bay. The local brewery is the perfect spot for post-surf drinks and food, and the energy in the water is equally enjoyable. We had an epic week of easy waves, shared with some of the most relaxed and friendly surfers we’ve met. The combination of great waves and a laid-back community made Broulee an easy addition to this list.

These beaches aren’t just about waves—they’re about the people, the atmosphere, and the feeling you get when you step onto the sand. Whether it’s a local surf group welcoming you in, a perfect setup for beginners, or just a shared understanding that we’re all here for a good time, these 10 beaches stand out for their incredible vibes. If you’re looking for a spot where the energy is just right, you can’t go wrong with any of these.

View some of our other favourite places