Australia 6-Day Summer Surf & Camping Trip

Planning a trip that combines surfing, camping, and a taste of Indigenous Australian culture along Australia’s East Coast sounds like an adventure worth considering. This 6-day tour, offered by Australian Surf Bus, promises a laid-back yet immersive experience suited for those eager to learn to surf and connect with nature—all while traveling in a small, friendly group. We’re here to lay out everything you need to know, from the highlights to the finer details, so you can decide if this is your next Aussie escape.

What immediately caught our eye is the focus on beginner-friendly surf lessons, the swag camping at scenic spots, and the chance to experience authentic Indigenous cultural activities. Plus, with a maximum group size of just 9, it’s designed for a personalized and relaxed atmosphere. The only potential hiccup? The cost of $986 per person might seem steep if you’re on a tight budget, but considering the inclusions—meals, transportation, lessons—that’s quite good value for a fully guided, adventure-packed week. This tour is perfect if you’re new to surfing, love outdoor camping, and want a taste of Australia’s best coastal scenery without the hassle of planning every detail yourself.

Key Points

• Small group size ensures personalized attention and a friendly vibe.
• Daily surf lessons with video analysis help beginners improve quickly.
• Swag camping offers genuine outdoor experience with hot showers and charging facilities.
• Cultural immersion with Indigenous activities adds depth to the trip.
• All-inclusive meals (5 breakfasts and 5 dinners) make logistics easier.
• Comfortable transport in an air-conditioned minibus connects all the highlight locations.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the 6-Day Surf & Camping Adventure

Who Is This Tour For?

If you’re someone who’s curious about surfing but has never tried it, this trip is designed with beginners in mind. It’s also ideal for travelers who love outdoor experiences, enjoy small group settings, and want a laid-back yet active holiday. It’s not suited for children under 16, those with mobility or health issues, or non-swimmers, as the activities require a reasonable level of physical comfort. Also, bring your sense of adventure, as camping—though comfortable—means sleeping in swag tents at scenic locations.

What Does the Itinerary Cover?

The trip runs from either Sydney to Brisbane or Brisbane to Sydney, offering flexibility based on your travel plans. The journey includes iconic coastal stops like Byron Bay, Yamba, Red Rock, Scotts Head, Seal Rocks, Norah Head, and the vibrant Gold Coast. Each destination offers its own unique charm, whether it’s the laid-back surf culture in Byron or the dramatic coastal scenery at Red Rock.

The Daily Schedule Breakdown

While exact times can vary, the tour generally kicks off early each day to make the most of daylight hours and beach conditions. Expect daily surf lessons tailored for beginners, which include video analysis—a helpful tool for quick progress. The surfboards and wetsuits are provided, so you don’t need to worry about bringing your own gear.

In the evenings, after a day of catching waves, you’ll settle into your swag tent—a traditional Australian outdoor sleeping setup that offers a true taste of camping life. The tents are set up at picturesque spots, often with hot showers and charging facilities, making it easier to relax and recharge. The included meals—5 breakfasts and 5 dinners—are freshly prepared, nutritious, and designed to keep you energized.

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Highlights of the Stops

• Byron Bay: Known for its laid-back vibe and legendary surf spots, this is a perfect place to start or end your trip. Expect a friendly community atmosphere and stunning ocean views.
• Yamba & Scotts Head: Smaller towns with gorgeous beaches, quieter than the tourist hotspots, ideal for relaxing and practicing your surf skills.
• Red Rock and Seal Rocks: Rugged coastlines with dramatic scenery, perfect for photographs and soaking in nature.
• Norah Head & Gold Coast: Iconic spots with beaches suited for beginners, where you’ll get hands-on coaching and lots of wave time.

The Cultural Component

A standout feature of this trip is the inclusion of Indigenous Australian cultural activities. These sessions provide insight into the rich traditions and stories of Aboriginal communities, adding depth and respect to your coastal adventure.

Transport and Group Size

Travel is in an air-conditioned minibus, which comfortably seats 11 passengers but keeps the group small—max 9 participants—so everyone gets personal attention. Pickup and drop-off are available from selected hostels in Sydney and Brisbane, making logistics straightforward.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The included elements—daily lessons, surf gear, camping, meals, cultural activities, transport—make this a well-rounded package. The main costs to consider are lunches (not included) and your sleeping bag. The tour’s value lies in the convenience: everything is arranged, and you just need to show up ready to surf and camp.

Real travelers’ insights

Past participants mention the friendly guides—notably, the tour leader “Matt,” who’s praised for his patience and humor. Reviewers also appreciate the small group vibe, which fosters camaraderie and personalized coaching. One review notes, “The surf lessons with video analysis made a big difference; I went from zero to riding waves confidently in just a few days.” Others value the authentic camping experience, describing it as “a real taste of Australia’s outdoor lifestyle,” with some mentioning the hot showers and charging stations as unexpected perks.

Practical Tips

• Pack sunscreen, water, insect repellent, and comfortable clothes for the beach and camping.
• Bring a sleeping bag—even if the swag tents are comfortable, a personal touch helps.
• Be prepared for early mornings and some physical activity, but don’t worry—it’s all beginner-friendly.
• The maximum group size of 9 makes it intimate, but it also means spots fill up fast, so booking early is advised.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a balanced mix of adventure, relaxation, and cultural insight, making it ideal for those new to surfing and outdoor camping. The focus on small group sizes ensures a personalized experience, and the stunning coastal scenery adds a visual feast to your days. If you’re looking for a fun, active holiday that combines learning, nature, and culture without the hassle of planning every detail, this trip hits many of the right notes.

While the price might seem high at first glance, the inclusions—meals, gear, coaching, camping, and transport—justify the cost for a hassle-free experience. It’s especially valuable for beginners who want to get confident on a surfboard, connect with nature, and learn about Aboriginal culture in a friendly setting.

If you’re after a laid-back yet engaging week in Australia’s beautiful coast with like-minded travelers, this tour could be just what you need. Keep in mind, it’s not designed for children under 16 or those with mobility issues, but for everyone else craving a genuine outdoor challenge mixed with cultural learnings, it’s a solid choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for complete beginners?
Yes, the tour is specifically designed with beginners in mind. The daily surf lessons are tailored to help newcomers learn basic skills and build confidence.

What gear is provided?
You’ll get surfboards and wetsuits included in the package, so no need to bring your own unless you prefer a personal fit.

How comfortable are the swag tents?
The tents are set up at scenic locations with access to hot showers and charging facilities, offering a comfortable outdoor sleeping experience that’s more than basic.

Are meals included?
Yes, the tour includes 5 breakfasts and 5 dinners, all freshly prepared and nutritious, making your daily planning easier.

What should I bring?
Pack essentials like sunglasses, a hat, swimwear, towel, camera, sunscreen, water, insect repellent, toiletries, comfortable clothes, and a sleeping bag.

Is transportation included?
Yes, transportation in an air-conditioned minibus is provided, with pickup and drop-off from selected hostels.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Absolutely, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance, allowing some flexibility.

Are children under 16 allowed?
No, the tour is not suitable for children under 16 due to the physical activities involved.

This 6-day surf and camping trip offers a fantastic way to experience Australia’s coast beyond the usual tourist spots. Perfect for those eager to learn, connect with nature, and experience local culture, it promises memorable days filled with waves, scenic views, and genuine adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: