There’s something iconic about learning to surf on the Sunshine Coast — and Coolum Beach is one of the best places to begin.

With its wide-open shoreline, consistent waves and relaxed local vibe, Coolum offers the perfect introduction to surfing. It’s not intimidating. It’s not overly crowded. And it doesn’t feel rushed. It’s a place where you can take your time, fall off your board a few times (or ten), laugh it off and try again.

If you’re staying at Coolum Beach Resort and thinking about giving surfing a go, here’s everything you need to know to get started.

Why Coolum Is Perfect for Beginners

Coolum Beach stretches for kilometres, which means plenty of space to find your own patch of ocean. The beach faces east, picking up consistent swells year-round, but there are usually gentler sections that are ideal for learners.

Compared to some of the more famous (and busier) surf spots along the coast, Coolum feels approachable. The atmosphere is friendly. The locals are respectful. And because the beach is so open, you don’t feel like you’re competing for every wave.

For beginners, that space makes all the difference.

The Best Time to Surf

If you’re new to surfing, timing matters.

Early mornings are usually the best time to learn. The wind tends to be lighter, the ocean cleaner and the beach quieter. The light is beautiful, the air is fresh and you’ll feel like you have the coastline almost to yourself.

Late afternoons can also be great, especially when the sea breeze softens. Midday can be busier and windier, so if it’s your first lesson, aim for sunrise or sunset sessions.

And don’t worry — there’s no need to surf massive waves. Smaller, rolling waves are exactly what you want when you’re starting out.

Should You Book a Lesson?

If it’s your first time, the answer is yes.

Local surf schools operate right on Coolum Beach and are fantastic at building confidence quickly. Instructors will:

• Teach you basic ocean safety
• Show you how to read waves
• Demonstrate how to pop up correctly
• Help you position yourself in the right part of the break

Most lessons start on the sand, practising your pop-up technique before you even hit the water. Then it’s straight into waist-deep waves where instructors guide the board and give you that first magical push.

And yes — you’ll probably stand up in your first lesson.

What Board Should You Use?

For beginners, longer and softer is better.

A soft-top longboard is ideal for learning. These boards are more stable, more forgiving and much easier to balance on compared to shortboards. They also float better, which makes paddling and catching waves far less exhausting.

Leave the sleek, small boards for later. Learning is about confidence and fun — not looking cool.

What to Wear

Coolum’s water temperature changes slightly through the seasons, but it’s generally comfortable year-round.

• In summer and early autumn, most beginners surf in swimmers or a rash shirt.
• In winter, a light wetsuit (often a 2mm or 3/2 steamer) will keep you comfortable, especially in early morning sessions.

Sunscreen is non-negotiable. The Queensland sun is strong, even on cloudy days. Apply before your session and reapply afterwards.

Ocean Safety Basics

Before you paddle out, take a moment to observe.

Look for the red and yellow flags — always surf between them if you’re unsure. Lifeguards are there to keep swimmers and surfers safe, and they can offer advice on conditions that day.

Pay attention to:

• Rip currents (stronger channels of moving water)
• Wave size and power
• Other surfers in the area

If you’re ever unsure, ask a lifeguard or your instructor. There’s no such thing as a silly question in the ocean.

The Beginner Experience: What It Really Feels Like

Let’s be honest.

Your first few attempts will involve falling off. A lot.

You’ll paddle. You’ll miss waves. You’ll stand up for half a second and topple sideways. You’ll laugh. You’ll swallow a bit of saltwater.

And then suddenly — it clicks.

You feel the push of the wave behind you. You pop up. You glide forward. The shoreline looks different from your board. And for a few seconds, you’re doing it.

That moment is addictive.

Surfing isn’t about perfection. It’s about progression. Every small improvement feels like a win.

Surf Etiquette for Beginners

Even as a beginner, it’s important to understand basic surf etiquette:

• Don’t drop in on someone already riding a wave.
• Hold onto your board — don’t let it fly loose.
• Be aware of your surroundings.
• Smile and apologise if you make a mistake.

Coolum’s surf culture is relaxed and friendly, especially toward learners. Respect the space, and you’ll feel welcome.

After the Surf

One of the best parts of learning to surf at Coolum Beach? What comes after.

Salty hair. Tired arms. That satisfied feeling of having tried something new.

Head back to Coolum Beach Resort, rinse off, grab a coffee from a nearby café and relive every wave you caught (and the ones you almost caught). Surfing has a way of making food taste better and naps feel deeper.

And don’t be surprised if you’re already planning your next session before the day is done.

When Is the Best Season to Learn?

The good news: you can learn year-round.

Summer offers warmer water and consistent swell.

Autumn brings warm conditions with fewer crowds.

Winter has crisp mornings but beautiful clear days.

Spring feels fresh and energising.

If you’re staying at Coolum Beach Resort, the ocean is always just moments away — ready when you are.

Final Thoughts

Surfing at Coolum Beach isn’t about becoming a professional overnight. It’s about stepping outside your comfort zone, embracing the ocean and enjoying the process.

It’s about sandy feet in the morning.

Laughing at wipeouts.

Feeling the rhythm of the waves.

And catching that one perfect glide that makes it all worthwhile.

Whether you’re eight or eighty, it’s never too late to try.

And there’s no better place to begin than Coolum.