Related GuidesPopular Cities in AustraliaMost Popular
Travel Resources
|
Seven Windsurfing Wonders of the World Australia: Windsurfing in the Land of Oz By Paul McMenamin
The prime windsurfing season here runs from October to November, with continued good sailing through February. Winds are usually offshore in the morning with a cool onshore wind blowing in the afternoon, averaging 18-25 knots in the Perth area with even windier conditions to the north and south. Perth's Swan River is an excellent choice for flatwater sailing. Being rather shallow, it's a good choice for novices learning to waterstart with enough wind to satisfy stronger sailors. A good place to put in is Pelican Point on the north bank of the river near the University of Western Australia. Pelican Point Windsurfing (01161.8938.61830) operates a windsurfing school here and also offers trips out to the nearby Keeling Islands. For chop jumpers, Leighton Beach, just north of Fremantle, is the most popular ocean site close to Perth. Typical summer conditions are onshore with 18-25+ knot winds, with ideal swells for "bump and jump" sailing on small boards. A couple of offshore islands shield Perth from the largest swells traveling across the Indian Ocean. For serious wavesailing, therefore, you've got to venture north or south for any serious wavesailing. About one hour north of Perth/Freemantle is the small fishing town of Lancelin. The winds are stronger here than in Perth and reefs that produce solid 6-10 foot waves much of the year. Lancelin doesn't offer many amenities but there are shops where you can buy spares and rent a basic rig. Be aware that once you leave Lancelin things get desolate quickly. Don't venture into the hinterlands without reliable transport, and plenty of water and fuel. Further north, about five hours from Perth, the fishing town of Geraldton (pop. 25,000) is a popular boardsailing center with reliable southwesterly seabreezes from 15 to 25+ knots. Good sites exist all along the coast here. Geraldton's hot spots are the lighthouse at Point Moore—usually the windiest spot in Geraldton&3151;and St. Georges Beach, a good choice for all skill levels. Sunset Beach at the northern end of Geraldton offers excellent wave riding when there's a big swell. Typically Sunset Beach conditions are side, side-onshore with good bump and jump conditions near the shore, and head high surf out on the reefs when a swell is running. Sail West (P.O. Box 1459, Geraldton, Western Australia 6530. 01161.8996.41722. www.wn.com.au/sailwest.sailwest.htm) offers one-to-four-week windsurfing packages on Australia's west coast. A one-week package with lodging in Perth and Geraldton, rental car, and equipment costs AUS$475-$535 per person based on double occupancy. To the south of Perth, the territory is fairly wild and rugged. Head south if you're feeling adventurous and want true big wave action. At Margaret River you can regularly find mast-high swells and strong onshore winds. Margaret River is ideal for surfing in the morning, and wave riding when the wind picks up in the afternoon. However, don't even think about sailing here unless you're very good. The tremendous swells and rocky outcrops here have claimed several lives. If you intend to sail here it's a good idea to spend some time watching the locals first. There are many other similar sites along the south coast between Cape Naturaliste to Cape Leeuwin, about three hours south of Perth, but most are experts only.
|
    advertisementTravel Interest Guides
Spring Driving Guide
Top itineraries, family-friendly asphalt-obsessed exploration, global four-wheel touring, tips, photos—it's all here. 
Rafting Guide
From riotous to lazy, GORPTravel offers a state-by-state guide to the whitewater of the United States. 
Family Travel Guide
Our esteemed travel experts pick the best places, hotels, and attractions, and offer sage travel wisdom and insight. 
Beach Guide
Whether you dive, kiteboard, windsurf, or just strive to perfect the art of sun-bathing, our experts have the spot. Vacation PackagesMore Travel Deals
Sign up for our Travel Deals Newsletter
More Travel Resources
Whether you are planning a family vacation, romantic getaway or travel adventure, visit our travel partners to save on your next trip.
GORP: GORPtravel: Outside Magazine: Orbitz:
CheapTickets:
eBookers travel: 
|
ShoulderSeason
Photo Galleries
Screensavers
©1999-2008 Orbitz Away LLC