Surf News & Updates

Live Surf Cams

Surfline Live is a 24/7 glimpse into the world’s surf.

This stream moves through Surfline's global camera network, showing spots where it’s daylight and rated Fair or better.

What's The Deal With...?

Legendary Surf Spots

How do I score the famous Superbank?

Scoring the Superbank is about timing and a bit of luck. You want a solid east or southeast swell with light offshore winds (westerlies). It works best on a rising tide. Be prepared for a crowd—it’s one of the longest, most rippable waves on the planet, so everyone wants a piece. Paddle fitness is key, as the take-off zone can shift. Your best bet is to be patient, follow the crowd rotation, and wait for your turn. The ride can be a 2km down-the-line dream!

Where’s the best place to get the lowdown on conditions?

Don’t just stare at generic surf apps. Hit up the local surf shops like Bundoran Surf Co or Surfworld. The guys behind the counter live and breathe it and will give you the real scoop on tides, wind, and which spot is working. Checking the cams at The Peak or Tullan is smart, but nothing beats local knowledge. Also, the surf school noticeboards often have the best, most accurate info for the day.

Beyond surfing, what’s the lifestyle like?

It’s the classic beachside dream, brah! Mornings start with a dawn patrol, followed by a flat white at a cafe overlooking the break. There’s an epic network of coastal walks and skate paths. The food scene is massive, from fish and chips on the grass at Burleigh to killer restaurants. Nightlife pumps in Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach. It’s a healthy, outdoor-focused life where the rhythm of the swell dictates the day. You’ll eat, sleep, and breathe saltwater.

Surfboard Evolution

What was the “Redwood Plank” era?

After the Hawaiian revival, surf hit California, but they lacked the perfect Hawaiian woods. So, early 20th-century shapers used what they had: redwood. These planks were crazy heavy—like 100+ pounds, bro! They were often just milled lumber, shaped a bit, and sealed with varnish. Riding one was a workout just to get it to the water. This clunky era was a crucial bridge between ancient craft and the lighter materials that would soon revolutionize everything.

Why was surfing so important in ancient Hawaiian culture?

It wasn’t just a sport; it was woven into their social and spiritual fabric, man. Chiefs used surfing to display skill and mana (spiritual power). The kahuna (priests) would even bless the waves and boards with rituals. It influenced everything from land disputes to romance. Being a great waterman or waterwoman was a huge mark of status. It was a way of life that taught balance, respect for the ocean, and pure stoke long before it was called that.

What’s the deal with volume, and why should I care?

Volume, measured in liters, is your board’s overall foam. It’s the magic number for float and paddle power. More liters mean an easier paddle, a more stable platform, and better wave-catching, especially for beginners or in smaller waves. As you progress, you’ll likely drop volume for more maneuverability. Think of it like this: high volume is your reliable friend on a mellow day; low volume is for when you want to really throw the board around.