2 posts
Hi everyone,
First time posting, long time reader (found myself regularly checking out Seabreeze when I've had questions such as what to do with my car key while I paddle, how to cut my carbon paddle - thank you for all of your advice!)
I'm new to SUP, got my first board a few weeks ago (loving it!) and am heading up to Byron Bay with the family next week. As I'm still growing in confidence mainly sticking to flat water cruising at this stage but will hopefully try some waves in the not too distant future (although not next week).
My question is not knowing the area too well (in particular, the water conditions/rips/tides/winds) does anyone who does know Byron (and surrounding areas) have any suggestions on where I'm best to get in the water while I'm there?
Thanks for your tips in advance.
Cheers,
Surnik
NSW
814 posts
Hi Surnik Welcome!
If you're looking for flat water paddle around Byron, go for a drive to Brunswick Heads and go up stream well away from the mouth of the river. Have paddled a kayak up there and is a great bit of water, really scenic. You could also try Belongil Creek at Byron, it is usually closed to the ocean and would be worth a look.
As for surfing, Byron is not the place to learn. Way too many bodies in the water, many of who have spent an hour having lessons, hire a board the next day and paddle out in the middle of the crowd. Insane! I've surfed my whole life and have had some really close calls there.
NSW
268 posts
Hi Surnik, welcome to the Breeze and to the addiction that is SUP.
For a unique place to paddle, check out Lake Ainsworth at Lennox Head. Small but popular place which is heaps of fun for the kids. It's the colour of Coke due to the Tea Tree's surrounding it. When you dive in, its dark red in colour, very weird. But it smells and feels nice and apparently good for your skin. Not a big piece of water to paddle, but different. Lennox also has a less busy beach, so there are lots of options to paddle there. Stay away from the point except for taking a walk out there on a bigger day to watch the locals rip. And a river run at Ballina is a blast, especially on a NE wind. Lots of options away from crowds. Even in Byron, look for the places no-one else wants to surf. I had a great day at Watego's when it was just too small for everybody else except a couple of SUP's and a couple of long mal's. You still get to feel the magic of Byron without any of the crowds. It just pays to be resourceful and respectful and look for different options that are less popular. If you are tempted by The Pass, leave the board behind and take the family bodysurfing. It's a magic place.
Enjoy and explore.
NSW
406 posts
Well, if you're down in Ballina - Shaws Bay is sheltered and lots of fish. go at high tide
2 posts
Thanks for the great suggestions everyone - definitely now have some ideas of where I need to check out. Appreciate it.
Cheers,
Surnik
