Surfing

Strap your board to the roof racks and head for Tasmania’s great surf breaks.

SHIPSTERN BLUFF

Big wave surfers come from all over the world to test their skills at ‘Shippies’. For experienced big wave surfers only. The 45-minute hike through bush and the views from the bluff, make it a worthwhile journey. Shipstern Bluff is 115km south-east of Hobart.

FRIENDLY BEACHES

Forming part of the Freycinet National Park, Friendly Beaches Reserve is a great place to surf away from the crowds. Park the car and walk to the long stretch of whitesand beach. From here you can head to the peak of your choice. Access is along a rough track so a four-wheeldrive is useful.

The entrance to Freycinet National Park is 167km north-east of Hobart.

SOUTH CAPE BAY

A 7km trek through stunning World Heritage wilderness and the journey is worth every step – South Cape is an inspiring, unspoiled coastline with big, clean waves.

South Cape Bay is a five-hour hike from Cockle Creek, 120km south of Hobart.

CLOUDY BAY

Bruny Island’s western shores are sheltered but the east and south coasts feel the full force of Antarctic swells. Home to the celebrated Bruny Island Surf Classic, it’s one of the state’s best beach breaks. Catch the ferry to Bruny Island at Kettering, 31.5km south of Hobart.

TAM O’SHANTER

It may sound more like an Irish pub than a surf break but Tam O’Shanter really rocks when the waves are up. Tasmania’s northern coast isn’t known for its surf breaks, but Tam is an exception. It’s a popular spot in winter, so make sure you’ve got a wetsuit if you want to ride this leftpeeling break at its best.

Drive to Lulworth, 58.1km north of Launceston then follow the signs to Tam O’Shanter.