Surfest

Surfest is the largest surfing festival in the southern hemisphere. Over 700 competitors from more than two dozen countries attended the event.

Surfest will commence at the Reflections Cadet Cup at Bonny Hills and conclude at the scenic Merewether Beach.

In 2025, Surfest Newcastle Australia is made possible through the support of Burton Automotive, the NSW government and Destination NSW, the City of Newcastle, Reflections Holiday Parks, Newcastle Business Community crowdfunding and Newcastle and Hunter regional businesses.

In 2025, Surfest Newcastle Australia will feature the Burton Automotive Pro and the Newcastle Racecourse Women’s Pro (WSL Qualifying Series 5000 events), the Burton Automotive Pro Junior (WSL Junior Qualifying Series 1000 event), and six supporting events.

The surfing festival will be held at Port Stephens and Newcastle City beaches, with the WSL QS5000 events at Merewether Beach, a recognised Australian National Surfing Reserve.

Surfest started in 1985 when Newcastle’s residents desperately tried to eliminate the industrial image and showcase the beauty of Newcastle’s beaches and surf breaks to people outside the region. The first competition (the BHP Steel International) was the richest professional surfing event in the world at that time. This notoriety drove competitors and spectators to the iconic event, and for more than three decades, Surfest has become Australia’s largest surfing festival.

Each year, Surfest offers 12 different surfing events during the competition. Visitors coming to spectate should note that this is much more than just an excellent surfing competition – it is a celebration of the city of Newcastle, its residents and their relationship and culture with the Australian beaches.

Aside from the surfing, a pop-up market runs on selected days during the event. The market showcases a variety of handmade items and art produced by local artists. Of course, a market would not be complete without a diverse range of delicious treats and food from food stalls and restaurants nearby.

Surfest’s reach extends beyond those present at the event. Through a webcast, the fun and excitement of Surfest can be shared with the rest of the world. So whether you are a keen surfer or spectator, Surfest has something for everyone to enjoy!