Northwest Coast
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Positives
- World-class lefts
- Mostly uncrowded
- Very high consistency
- Unique wildlife & diving
Negatives
- Challenging waves
- Strong winds
- Remote, no hospitals
- Natural dangers
Northwest Coast surf travel guide
Western Australia is the largest state, but has the lowest population density in Australia. Travelling to the northwest-facing coast takes the word 'remote' to another level and accordingly, most surf spots are uncrowded, with the exception of the world-class lefts at Gnaraloo. The natural habitat and unique wildlife are rich and diverse, especially throughout the 280km long Ningaloo Reef.
Surf spots in Northwest Coast
Research the 11 surf breaks in Northwest Coast and discover what spots suit the current conditions.
Break lowdown
We’ve collated the wave data giving you a unique insight into the 11 breaks in Northwest Coast.
When to go
Surf and weather statistics to help plan your surf trip to Northwest Coast
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Travel Information
General
- Current Time
- Population
- 2,589,000
- Tourist Info
- Tourist Info
Security
Health
Money
- Currency
- AUD
- Exchange rate
- $1 = 1.27 AUD AUD
Cost of living
Communication
- Dialing in
- +61
- Dialing out
- 0011
- Language
- English
Electricity
- Plug Type
- i
Visas
Everyone except Kiwis needs a visa before arriving in OZ so get one in good time before arriving. European countries, USA, Canada and Japan can get a free tourist visa online (some nations maybe charged a A$20 “service charge”). Visas last for 12 months but you can only stay for a total of either 3 or 6 months within the 12 month period. As always check carefully for any updates before you travel.
Getting There
One of the world’s most remote surfing locations. Perth (PER) is the closest international airport. Perth to Exmouth (Learmonth) fr $330 o/w. Perth to Carnavon is a 1000km (620mi) drive (10h by Great Eastern Highway), then Carnarvon-Gnaraloo is 150km (93mi) half black-top, half bull-dust.
Getting Around
A 4WD or bush campervan is recommended since distances are huge, accommodation highly limited and roads/tracks are usually of poor quality. Check Autorentals in Perth, or Europcar in Exmouth. Buy a car if travelling for a long period. Carnarvon to Exmouth is a 380km (236mi) drive. No planes, trains, buses, or taxis, to the spots.
Accommodation
Potshot resort in Exmouth has budget dorms from AU$40/night. Gnaraloo & Bluff camps (only basic accommodation options): 3 Mile Camp (10km from the Homestead) has a campground offering 4 styles of camping: Basic sites, Primo sites, the Lagoon site and the Hilton from $20/p/n. Excellent seafood and try the kangaroo meat.
Activities
Incredible sea life (fish, whales, dolphins, sharks, turtles, dugongs) and amazing corals. Bird watching, world-class fishing, quality snorkelling and diving sites. Shark Bay attracts many tourists.
Hazards & hassles
Despite the high shark factor, attacks are rare, so reef cuts, strong currents and big, powerful waves are the real aquatic threats. Be fully prepared for desert survival, insects and snakes are plentiful. Population is low, but many are hardcore surfers, who can be as harsh as the environment to those who aren't humble.
Handy Hints
Bring a full quiver, repair kit, steamer for the cold winter mornings, booties, a first aid kit with magnaplasm for urchins. Also food, plenty of water, warm clothes, full camping gear. Internet at Gnaraloo station. Cape Hideaway Surf Shop in Exmouth. NW Surfboards in Carnarvon.
Due to global pandemic, Visas, Getting There, Getting Around or Accommodation information and pricing may have changed. Always check Government Travel Advice before travelling.