Calling all people who love to ride waves, you all might want to know what is the best swell season for the Gold Coast and why. Gold Coast surfing is among the most popular topics being talked about by people who are interested in the Goldie. Mind you, it’s not enough to know that the Gold Coast has many famous surf spots. You also need to know the best time to go to the Gold Coast to visit them, unless you just want to swim or have a nice picnic with your dog at the shore.
What is the best swell season for the Gold Coast and why? April to September is the best swell season for surfing on the Gold Coast. This period is when there are some of the largest swells in the Pacific Ocean with waves that are also most consistent and ideal for surfing.
The swell season is different from one coast to another. So, read on to know the best months where the best swells appear on the Gold Coast.
Gold Coast’s Swell Season
The best swell season for surfing on the Gold Coast is between April and September. Since this is when there are some of the largest swells in the Pacific Ocean with waves that are also most consistent, for those unaware of the term, a swell is energy transferred into the sea by the wind. Air or water are two possible forms of this energy, depending on the circumstances and the area it has hit.
A swell typically isn’t dangerous for those near it. It can, however, be challenging for swimmers and surfers, especially when a storm occurs.
The stronger and longer the wind blows, the more energy is transferred, so the swell is larger. It is why hurricanes always produce large swells. Similar to ripples in a pond, this energy afterward spreads from where it is created into the ocean.
Why Visit Gold Coast During Its Best Swell Season?
Visiting beaches during the swell season is more enjoyable for surfing enthusiasts as the smooth waves are bigger. Don’t be confused by waves and swell, as these two are different.
When wind runs over water, waves are created. As a result, it provides valuable information about the wind speed in that area. On the other hand, swells are waves that have propagated from outside their original location and often have smooth tops. In short, swell makes swimming in the ocean fun, and as I said earlier, swell isn’t dangerous unless it is extreme.
If you’re planning a trip to the Goldie, consider April rather than September as the water temperature is warmer, being that it is the end of summer.
Frequently Asked Questions
- When to catch the best waves for surfing on the Gold Coast? You can find the best waves for surfing on the Gold Coast between February and April due to the cyclone season. The swell is at its peak, and the water is at a pleasant 23 degrees Celsius.
- What wind direction is best for surfing on the Gold Coast? Wind from the south is the best wind for surfing on the Gold Coast. Local wind swells are just as likely as distant groundswells to produce waves, and the best swell direction comes from the southeast.