Noosa

## The spot Noosa is one of Australia's most famous longboard waves, a series of gentle right-hand point breaks wrapping around the Noosa National Park headland in Queensland. First Point, the most accessible, produces long, mellow walls perfect for nose-riding and classic longboarding. The warm subtropical water, sunshine, and beautiful headland setting make it one of Australia's most pleasant surf experiences. ## When it works Needs a north-east to east cyclone swell wrapping around the headland. A southerly or south-westerly wind is offshore. Best on a high tide (the rocks are exposed otherwise). The 2-5ft range is ideal. Works primarily during cyclone season (December-April) and with north-east wind swells. Less consistent than south-facing spots but magical when it works. ## Where to sit First Point is the most accessible and popular. The wave peels right along the rocks. Second Point and further require a longer walk through the national park but offer more quality and fewer people. Each point has a defined take-off zone. ## Hazards Rocks and reef throughout. The headland is rocky with urchins. High tide covers most hazards but low tide exposes sharp reef. Bluebottles seasonally. Small sharks occasionally. The crowd at First Point is a hazard itself. ## Parking and access Park in Noosa Heads (limited, arrive early) or take the bus. Walk along the boardwalk to First Point or through the national park for the other points. Full resort town facilities. ## The crowd First Point is extremely crowded. 50-100 people on a good day. Longboards, SUPs, and beginners create chaos. The further points (Second, Third, Tea Tree) are progressively less crowded but require a longer walk. Dawn patrol at First Point is essential. ## Local tips Bring a longboard. Noosa is not a shortboard wave (too gentle). Walk to Second Point or beyond for less crowd and better waves. The national park walk is beautiful regardless of surf. Noosa town has excellent restaurants and cafes. Hastings Street is the main strip. Arrive at first light for parking and waves.