Sun, Surf, & Sand: What You Need to Know About Australian Beach Culture
With over 60,000 kilometres of coastline and with most major cities bordering the ocean, the beach is held firmly in the heart of every Australian, deeply rooted in our culture and history. It’s not just a place for Australians; the beach is a lifestyle, symbolizing freedom and forming an integral part of our national identity.
Let’s dive headfirst into what makes Australian beach culture so unique.
Photo by Belle Co
The Great Outdoors
Not only does Australia shine in nearly every major sporting event worldwide, but sports and outdoor activities are inherent to the Australian lifestyle.
Everything from surfing and swimming to more leisurely snorkelling and paddleboarding, right through to competitive fishing, water plays an exceptionally large part in Australia’s sporting industry.
Clubs run in most towns, from children or adult novices, right through to professional level, with lessons and events running all year round. Our famous Ironman competition, the Rip Curl Pro Surfing competition at Bells Beach, and even the Beach Ultimate flying disc competitions have truly made Australian beaches an iconic part of our society.
Photo by RDNE Stock project
Christmas in the sand
Whilst most end-of-year celebrations in the Northern Hemisphere occur in winter, Australia celebrates the Christmas and New Year period at the peak of summer. This means that regardless of religious or cultural background, it’s an Aussie tradition to gather at the beach or pool for a barbecue with friends and family, and even enjoy a game of beach cricket.
Many public parks have barbecues for everyone to use and share their beachside feats, leading to an incredible day of international cuisines and music, and a blend of community which truly embraces multiculturalism.
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Sun & Surf Safety
The ocean is a serious business, and with so many safety and survival mechanisms in place at every major Australian beach, it is important to follow the rules and advice for each area. An entire industry has been built around water safety, with full-time lifeguards and volunteers working together over the warmer months to help visitors stay safe in the water.
Safety extends not only to water safety but also sun protection. Given the profound affinity with the beach, Australians are conscientious about minimizing UV exposure during the intense summer sun. From early childhood, Australians are urged to “Slip, Slop, Slap” – slip on some clothes, slop on lots of sunscreen, and slap on a hat.
Safety advice can be found near the lifeguard stations at patrolled beaches, including where and when it is safe to swim and any warnings about local marine life in the area.
Photo by Nicola Louise on Unsplash
Welcoming Waters
With a seemingly endless number of beaches, Australia provides a place for everyone. There are beaches for surfing and bodyboarding, man-made ocean pools, beaches for dogs and pets, and even places with accessibility ramps leading into the water.
This diverse coastal landscape not only caters to all preferences but also reflects Australia’s commitment to inclusivity. It ensures that its public beaches are spaces where all are truly welcome and where everyone can feel safe, comfortable, and embraced by the beauty of the Australian coast.
Photo by Kate Branch
Environment and Nature
Take one look at the beloved Steve Irwin, and it’s not hard to see that the environment and nature are very dear to the Australian people.
The deep connection that Australians share with their natural surroundings can be felt throughout history, with profound connections to land and local fauna and flora beginning with the Indigenous Australians over 65,000 years ago. With such a close connection to nature, it is every visitor’s responsibility to always leave the beach as it was found.
Protecting the wildlife and following the strict fishing and marine laws will ensure that the country remains pristine for all visitors to enjoy for generations to come.
Photo by Tom Fisk
Australian beach culture is a unique blend of outdoor activities, festive traditions, safety-conscious practices, and a deep commitment to environmental preservation. These elements collectively shape a distinctive way of life, ingrained in the hearts of Australians through the sun, surf, and sands of their iconic beaches.
Chat with us today, and let us get you started on your Australian beach journey.
