About this spot
Sideways Surf Kawana sits in the Birtinya area of the Sunshine Coast, Queensland, offering accessible surfing action through most of the year. The break draws a solid local crew and maintains steady community engagement—12 species observations and 3 community videos document regular activity at the spot. The location sits outside marine protected areas, giving surfers straightforward access without permit restrictions. Conditions here favor year-round sessions, though swell direction and consistency vary with the Australian east coast's seasonal patterns. The break works for surfers across experience levels, though specific skill requirements depend on swell size and tide state. Community participation remains strong, with local surfers regularly sharing footage and marine life encounters. Getting to Sideways means heading to Birtinya, a suburb easily reached from Sunshine Coast towns. Accommodation, fuel, and food services cluster nearby. The spot's accessibility and year-round potential make it a reliable option for coast travelers and locals hunting consistent waves.
📖 Guide: Diving in Australia: 61 Sites from Coral Reefs to Cold-Water Wrecks
Best months
Trip essentials
Everything you need before you pack — checklist, sun, logistics.
Trip checklist
- 🛂 Visa-free or visa-on-arrival
- 🏄 Surfboard or rental confirmation
- 🧴 Reef-safe sunscreen SPF 50+
- 🔌 Plug type I · 230V adapter
- 💊 Seasickness meds + ear drops
- 📱 Offline maps + emergency contact
Quick facts
- 🌓 Moon First quarter · 47%
- GPS
› Sustainability disclosures
From your departure country
- Visa: e-Visa · 90 days max
- Flight: 16h · direct
- Jet-lag: 9h east · 6 days recovery
FAQ
›When is the best time to surf Sideways Surf Kawana?
The break works year-round. Eastern Australian coast swells are strongest March to October, with autumn and winter typically delivering larger, more organized waves. Summer offers smaller but cleaner conditions on lighter-wind days.
›What's the skill level needed for this break?
Specific difficulty ratings are not documented, so suitability depends on current swell size and your own experience. Check recent community videos to gauge conditions before paddling out.
›What marine life might you see here?
Twelve species observations have been recorded at the spot. Community contributions and local knowledge provide the best detail—check site videos and local reports for recent wildlife sightings.
›Do I need permits or licenses to surf here?
Sideways Surf Kawana is not inside a marine protected area, so standard surf access applies. Always respect local guidelines and check current conditions before heading out.
