Okanui's pick of Australia’s best longboarding beaches

The Okanui story begins with a passion for surf, founder Dick Ash was just 15 when he was inspired to create his first pair of cotton board shorts. Using his Mum's sewing machine, Dick used some old canvas mailbags from the Avalon post office to sew together this very first pair of Okanui's. The shorts were cut long, suited for sitting on the new-style Okanui surfboards that had exploded on to the Aussie surf scene in 1956.

Our passion for surfing, specifically longboarding, still lives on 40 years later. So, therefore, we feel the need to spread our love for longboarding and provide you with our favourite Australian longboarding beaches.

Noosa Heads, QLD

With some of the world’s most sought-after longboard breaks, Noosa heads will not only invite you to enjoy rolling waves but is home to the most photogenic beaches as well. Whether you’re a beginner looking for an ideal swell, or a pro rider wanting to catch a genuine 200-metre ride, there are many breaks at Noosa Heads. 

Crescent Head, NSW

Ribboning the coastline for 25 kilometres, the waves at Crescent Head are perfect for both beginners and professional longboard riders. Located just north of Port Macquarie, there are four ‘perfect right-hand point breaks.

Snapper Rocks, QLD

This is a classic point break where the waves are formed by the Southern Ocean swells converging towards the rocky point. These types of waves formed accommodate for longer surf craft as opposed to short, fast boards. This break is a favourite amongst longboarders and surf craft enthusiasts.

Yallingup, WA

Yallingup Beach in the Margaret River Area is an exposed reef break that has reliable surf. The main break at Yallingup is quite breathtaking to see for the first time when you head down the hill towards the beach. It has left and right-handers that are just a short paddle from the shore.

Fairy bower, NSW

Fairy Bower is one of the best point breaks of Sydney breaking in front of Manly Beach, next to Shelly Beach you can access the spot by paddling around the corner of Shelly. Rated No#17 out of Australia's top 200 surf spots. With a right-hand point break and shallow rocks mostly, the wave starts at the famous "Winki Pop".

Image credit (in the order they appear) Saxon Kent, Sean Scott Photography & Pier Shaskard Photo