4 minute read
Surf’s Up!
NORFOLK ISLAND IS A PLACE WITH SO MANY HIDDEN WONDERS; the amazing food, the glorious fishing, the beautiful beaches, the rich history and the lovely locals. It’s not that it tries to hide these charms, it just doesn’t like making a big deal about them. And now we can add one more little known attraction to the reasons for visiting Norfolk – turns out it’s also a laidback surfing paradise.
That the surf’s up on Norfolk Island should really come as no surprise, given that it is an island in the middle of the Pacific. Nevertheless, it’s location has meant that it has flown well under the radar on the surfing circuit, which is a shame as it has so much to offer, from gentle waves that are great for beginners to more challenging breaks for those who are up for it. And the best part is that all these waves are to be found in absolutely
It’s location has meant that it has flown well under the radar on the surfing circuit, stunning locations: Slaughter Bay and Cemetery Beach have consistent reef breaks offering up beautiful barrels (put it this way - the swells at Slaughter Bay were good enough to wreck HMS Sirius in 1790), with crystal clear water and sandy beaches fit for a postcard, while the truly magnificent Anson Bay has a pounding beach break lorded over by spectacular cliffs. Breathtaking views and heart-pumping waves; what’s not to like.
“Norfolk Island is a pretty special place for a surfer,” says Jack Entwistle - and Jack should know. The professional long boarder has been surfing pretty much all his life - hailing from Manly, Australia and having a world champ surfer for a father meant that was pretty much inevitable! - and has made numerous trips to ride the Norfolk waves. “I have grandparents there, so any excuse to get over there is welcome! It can be a little fickle, but it’s also pretty versatile in that it has a few different breaks which are better in different swell and wind directions. If one place is no good, then there are often waves to be found at another place. On a good day Norfolk is a pretty amazing place to surf. It’s off the beaten track and not as easily accessible as other places, but that is part of the attraction. You’ll often be out there on your own - which you don’t get anymore on the popular beaches - and when there is a lineup its just really passionate locals, so there is a great camaraderie there that has kinda been lost elsewhere. There is a cool little local scene with some great surfers and they are pretty welcoming.”
Explore the history of the island and it’s hardy settlers, get out on the hiking trails, or sample the island’s amazing cuisine.
And an added bonus is that there is plenty to do even if the waves aren’t coming to the party and you have to wait for the swells. Explore the history of the island and it’s hardy settlers, get out on the hiking trails, or sample the island’s amazing cuisine, with what must be one of the most carbon neutral farm-gate-to-plate carbon footprints on the planet! Norfolk Island beef is excellent, but the seafood - it’s and island! - is the star of the show.
“Yeah if the water is flat then it’s a day for fishing! And the fishing is amazing,” Jack says. “The snorkelling at Emily Bay is fantastic too, golfing is a favourite, or even just hanging out at Anson Bay - there is a great vibe on the island that’s pretty infectious!”
