Blessed with more accessible surf beaches than any other Australian state. NSW has established itself as the Mecca for surf travellers. Most campervan & motorhome hire locations are based in Sydney, but there are a few operators in Byron Bay and just across the border on the Gold Coast. The coastline boasts an incredible diversity, from the temperate rainforests of the Byron Bay area to the cool, and often inhospitable beaches of Cape Howe. This is a wonderful mix for the wave hungry traveller, as it often represents a choice unparalleled anywhere else. NSW is the hub of surfing in this country. It is the most prolific producer of fine surfers and the ever expanding surf industry is deeply entrenched in the nooks and crannies of the northern beaches. No wonder, when there are so many possibilities for waves. Although the coast has been thoroughly explored for hidden treasures, this by no mean indicates that crowds are prevalent everywhere. In fact just the opposite. It is a dream for surf wanderers as many of the places have been documented, yet a large percentage of the natural beauty remains untouched. Certainly in the south, there is still a sense of solitude as many winter swells pound the shore ceaselessly in hollow perfection, without the slightest hint of a surfer’s trail. In the north as well, there are many places that can be surfed alone, yet without the total remoteness that often characterises the other States. For many of the non-surfing populous of Australia, places such as Byron Bay characterises everything that surfing represents. Yet this is just the tip of the iceberg. The northern beaches of Sydney were the first place to witness the birth of surfing in the early 1901 and since then, the coast has steeped itself in surfing tradition, with surfing being a regular part of the Lifestyle enjoyed by the inhabitants of Australia’s busiest capital city.

Travelling was and is, an essential ingredient to every surfer who resides In the heart of NSW, Sydney. It became necessary as the population grew quickly, crowding the once peaceful surf breaks. This led to amazing discoveries that have become a focal point for surfers. Aussie Pipe, Lennox Head and a host of other top class waves are still fondly talked about and passionately surfed. For many of the greatest breaks in Australia lie within the boundaries of this great State. It has bred a hardy group of travellers who are constantly dialling surf reports for the north and south coasts, in the desperate hope that ‘their’ special place will turn it on, and a mad roadtrip dash will yield waves that most dream about. For every surfer in the state’s capital must search further and deeper to uncover the beauty that has blessed this region for so long.

Pretty much all of South Australia’s campervan, 4WD and Motorhome hire locations are based in the capital, Adelaide – including budget operators like Wicked Campers, Travellers Autobarn, Rouge Rentals. Adventuring through the heart of South Australia feels like being inside an Indiana Jones movie, complete with crazed tribesman and narrow escapes from sea beasts all in the hope of riding some of those elusive waves that haunt the coastline. The myth of South Australia lends to its character. ferocious shark attacks, hardened locals, and rugged terrain. Of course there are the world class waves to consider. It’s just a matter of finding them, and then battling the forces that so often confront you on your quest for those precious barrels.

Perhaps many of the stories that abound in the local taverns would have been closer to the mark thirty years ago. Certainly, there are still many sharks brooding below the surface, but quite a few of their hunting grounds have moved farther afield due to the fishing ports being well bled of their fish supply.

Many of the roads, impassable 20 years ago, are now paved, or at least graded, and the locals are, in general, warm and friendly. Yet there is still a feeling of isolation. There are many coastal camping zone void of humans for months on end. The breaks are often surrounded by deep and dark channels giving an eerie feel. There are still plenty of 4WD Hire tracks that will test the will of all adventurers, and the locals can be daunting. However, the rewards by far outweigh the negatives. Endless sandy beaches stretch towards towering dunes that resemble snow fields. Cornices dangle, whipped into perfection by relentless winds. Hundreds of bird and animal species roam the rugged wilderness. Huge salt pans that reflect the searing sun. Lush green hillsides where cattle and sheep stand nervously. There is so much to see, yet so few to see it. There lies the key to anyone who wants to experience adventure. During the months of June and November, great Southern Whales come to calve in a cove at the head of the bight. On one blustery Tuesday, with not a soul in sight, we watched as eight whales calved and played with their young a mere 100 meters offshore. We dived at Piccaninie Ponds where the sea bed suddenly drops to a depth of 500 ft, merely metres from the reedy bank, alone. We also surfed some of the best waves we had seen, alone. This is how the people in the community want to keep it. Quiet, uninterrupted, peaceful. Small diners sulk at large orders from a healthy group of surfers, preferring the meagre taking from locals. The reason for this difference to the Eastern states is their existence has been an isolated one. Those who disliked it left for the East, the rest remain staunchly tight lipped about their bountiful state. No wonder, as they have witnessed many prized east coast areas become overcrowded by busy tourists, and money chasing developers. They fear for the soul of their State and once you have seen the beauty you can understand the dilemma. Government signs, that may have lead the way to some secret wave, are torn down. Tourist brochures are hidden on shelves by fishing tackle and the odd porn mag. Locals grunt at questions and lose interest in talking to the tourist. Scratch the surface, and like the mercurial genie, your pot of gold will appear. If you want to take a great South Australian roadtrip adventure – be sure to contact us. We’ll get you the cheapest campervan hire in Adelaide – guaranteed!

It took the first settlers more than forty years to reach the West, following the colonisation of the much fabled East. This was due to its remoteness and huge area. At a little under half Australia’s overall size, Western Australia is certainly the big man of our states. Over 175,000 kms of road intertwine this vast land, where much of the natural environment is still untouched. As expected, most campervan, 4WD and motorhome hire companies are based in Perth, however there are a few operators in Exmouth (Wicked Campers) and Broome (Wicked Campers, Britz Motorhomes). Our indigenous population has many of its foundations here, which adds to the spiritual feel, and there is so much diversity in the landscape that every desire can be satisfied. The coastline is spectacular in its appearance and its sparseness of population, although this is changing every year. Every Australian surfer at one time or another has read or seen articles about the adventurers of this land. Surfers who lock themselves in the desert for months on end, to escape normality, and revel in the absolute beauty of their environment.

Pia like Tombstones, Grunters, Crazies and Gallows fill most surfers with dread, and a dedicated crew with drooling desire. This is the beauty of such a rugged state, that it is not all Macdonald’s drive thru’s, and the waves aren’t all beach breaks. Hell no. There are reefs that will slice you like a steak knife, hundreds of kms from any medical service. Roads that will tear apart the most rugged 4WD Hire vehicle. And then there are the wave. With over 6,000kms of surfable coastline, you would be right in assuming that there are some quality waves in this region. In fact some of Australia’s premier big wave spots lie within Western Australia’s grasp. Most surfs are lonely, long paddles to outer reefs, where spitting beasts dwell, and where the marine life surrounds you. It tests the most adventuring spirits. Howling winds berate the inhabitants, a relentless sun sheds more than its share of UV rays. Expensive fuel and redneck attitudes all combine to give a feeling of a separate land, as if the desert is the great barrier between east and west.

Technology is slow to infiltrate the sparse ranks of this land. Mobile phones are useless in many areas, and mechanical repairs consist of chewing gum in radiators and stockings for fan belts. A land full of contrast, with the richness and diversity of the south, to the extreme sparseness and hostile environment of the north. The south, with its bountiful wineries, and karri forests stretching hundreds of feet upwards, has received thousands of admirers from the east. Great waves abound this area, with raw power and monolithic sizes being its trademark. In contrast, the
North has built its reputation on its tough exterior. Rugged roads, often impassable, gnarled coastlines and mammoth expanses of desert. But weaved in amongst this vastness, is a rare beauty that makes this place magical. The blooming wildflowers, shower their canopy of colours over an otherwise barren landscape. The coastline twists and weaves its way through open facing beaches, to secluded coves and peninsulas, where an incredible array of marine creatures dwell. The reefs are barely touched and haven’t been subjected to excessive tourism. Visitors to this area, from the east or further, stand in awe of such majesty. But Western Australia requires more than a cursory glance, since there are secrets hidden amongst its ruggedness that most intrepid travellers will find. But search my friends, as you cannot be disappointed in an area that is so rich in every way.

It was the early ’60’s when Victoria established itself as an epicentre for surfing in Australia, although the locals had known this for some time. The Bells Beach surf carnival was the beginning of a dynasty that carries on today. Thousands of people flock from everywhere to watch the proceedings lhat have become so steeped in tradition. If you’d like to explore the Great Ocean Road or Mornington Peninsula, then Melbourne is your best option for hiring a campervan, 4WD or Motorhome. We have the best campervan hire deals in Melbourne – and the largest selection of brands!

The Mexicans of Australia are lucky people indeed. Blessed with an ocean road that is unparalleled and hundred of kilometres of empty beache , this state is unique in every way. Unlucky some may say, as the capital is some 100 km away from the closest surf. Lucky is the way most surfers feel, as they are exposed to so many beach options without the problem of overcrowding. Indeed, surfing this state can be a lonely experience. There are stretches of coastline where one would imagine that you are the first inhabitant. Aboriginal caves still remain intact without the crass signatures that often deface their natural beauty. Quaint towns still dot the coastline, and the pubs are full of intriguing patrons who can tell endless stories hunched over their beloved beer. For Victoria is a beer loving State. It is home to Victoria Bitter, the most widely accepted drink in this land. Why is it that they love amber ales and yarns so much? Perhaps it is the fact that the weather seems to fmd people scampering away from the cold, into the warmth of the taverns and friendly conversatlon. The trademark of the Vicos: their hospitality. The capital has tried to remain a little antiquated, although this has been altered by the resolute hand of our Premier. A casino is now in place, but for how long, as the inhabitants are keeping away from such a tiresome place. Residents preferring the atmosphere and diversity of the myriad of restaurants and cafes.

For the surfer though, there is much to offer. Torquay, the home of the surf industry, is the starting point for many roadtrips. This is what characterises the coastline. Spectacular ocean views and a diverse landscape that keeps evolving. The variety for the travelling surfer is magnificent. Only South Australia is comparable to the numerous locations that vary so greatly. From lhe far reaches of the East, where ninety miles of beach link powerful but inconsistent surf to the more populated areas. Places like Phillip Island are still very isolated from the majority of tourists. Then of course there are the popular places such as The Mornington Peninsula with great vineyards and an enduring rural feel, interspersed with powerful ocean breaks. It is the West Coast though, that really sparks the imagination. Cold but clean ocean power form endless waves over the numerous point breaks. There are no boundaries on this coast as it keeps going to the west which is the natural progression for surfers in this state. The men and women who regularly surf here are a hardy breed. They stand staunchly in the Bells carpark at the break of day, struggling to see the icy sets peeling around the corner through me early morning mist, the woollen jumpers and beanies wrapped rightly around chiselled faces and bodies. For it takes commitment to surf here year round. The temperature of the water in winter is around the ten degree mark, making for headaches and blue feet in the surf. This is me attraction though. An initiation for lifetime of surfing for bodies that have been built for stamina. Although you will all hear groaning about the cold, it really is a decoy to keep the pretenders in their cars. There is nothing more treasured than a lonesome session for a Victorian.