What’s happening in the surfing scene on the Gold Coast in May 2025

If you’re a surfer juggling a 9-to-5, family duties, and still frothing for water time, this monthly wrap is for you. May on the Gold Coast brings a mix of mellow autumn vibes and the first hints of winter swell. We’ve pulled together the need-to-know on surf conditions, local happenings, gear, and more – all in a quick read so you can get back to planning that next dawn patrol.

Wave Check: Surf Conditions in May 2025

Autumn is in full swing and the surf is holding steady. The southern point breaks – Snapper Rocks, Greenmount, and Kirra – are still enjoying the tail end of their prime season.

Swell: Expect a mix of easterly and southeasterly groundswells. On the better days, set waves should hover in the chest-to-head-high range (around 3–5ft), with the odd overhead cleanup when wind conditions cooperate.

Wind & Weather: Light offshore winds from the west most mornings are grooming those lines nicely (May often gifts us glassy dawns before a light sea-breeze kicks in mid-arvo). Skies are generally sunny with cooler, crisp mornings – you’ll feel that slight chill pre-sunrise, but daytimes remain pleasantly warm.

Water Temp: The ocean is cooling off but still comfortable – averaging about 23–24 °C , meaning many locals are just starting to swap boardies for springsuits.

Key swell dates to watch:

Early May (around 5th–9th) – A long-period ESE groundswell is on the cards, coinciding with morning offshores. This could deliver a few days of classic Snapper and Kirra peelers – perfect timing as the world’s best surfers hit town for the comp (more on that below!).
Late May (around 25th–28th) – The first solid southerly swell of the year might sneak up the coast. If it materialises, look for bigger sets and longer lines at the outer points. Local gurus suggest Kirra could light up if the sandbanks are aligned, so keep an eye out and maybe plan a sneaky flex day off work.

Local Surf & Ocean Events – May 2025

If you’re keen to plug into the community or just see some epic surfing, May has a stack of events. From elite competitions to grassroots gatherings, here are the must-knows for this month:

WSL Bonsoy Gold Coast Pro – Burleigh Heads (May 3–13) – The Championship Tour is making waves on the Goldie once again! Originally slated for Snapper Rocks, the event has been relocated to Burleigh Heads due to significant sandbank erosion caused by ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred. The cyclone left a deep trough at Snapper, rendering it unsuitable for the competition. Burleigh Heads, with its rich surfing heritage and world-class right-hand point break, steps in as the new venue, promising thrilling performances from top surfers like Kelly, Steph, and Filipe. While it’s a change of scenery, the excitement remains high. Even if you’re tight on time, catching a heat or two is well worth it—the atmosphere is electric, and you might pick up some tips from the world’s best. (Tip: Keep an eye on daily updates, as the event may utilize mobile backup locations like Greenmount, Kirra, or even Snapper Rocks if conditions permit.)
Queensland Surf Championships – Sunshine Coast (May 24–30) – Up the highway on the Sunny Coast, the state’s top surfers will battle it out for the QLD titles . It’s a multi-day event covering various divisions (from groms to masters). Why care? Today’s Sunshine Coast champ could be tomorrow’s Gold Coast superstar. If you fancy a road-trip, head up to Coolum or Alexandra Headland to support our Goldie competitors and enjoy a change of scenery – the waves up there can pump this time of year too. This comp is also a great networking spot if you’re into the surf industry scene.
Gold Coast Bodyboard Titles – (May 25) – Squeezing in just before winter, local spongers get their moment. The Gold Coast Bodyboard Club is hosting the state bodyboarding titles at one of our beach breaks (likely D-Bah or Tugun, venue pending conditions). It’s worth a watch to see riders getting shacked in shorey barrels and pulling moves most of us couldn’t dream of on a stand-up. Plus, the vibe at bodyboard comps is super friendly – they’re always keen to welcome spectators and new riders.

Local Cafés Worth a Visit

When you're out and about, here’s where we recommend grabbing a coffee if you're on the Gold Coast or nearby:

Paddock Bakery, Burleigh Heads – A local favourite set in a charming old Queenslander house. Perfect for a post-surf coffee and a fresh pastry. The outdoor garden seating is ideal when you’re rocking up sandy and salty after a session at Burleigh Point.

Elk Espresso, Broadbeach – One of the Coast’s best spots for serious coffee and creative brunches. Always buzzing with surfers and beachgoers. Their seasonal menu and specialty brews hit the spot after an early paddle.

Barefoot Barista, Palm Beach – Chilled vibes, top-quality coffee, and heaps of healthy food options (including vegan and gluten-free). It’s close to some of Palmy’s best surf spots, making it a classic stop after your morning waves.

And that’s the lowdown for May. Get out there, enjoy the awesome conditions, support a few local events if you can, and most importantly – have fun and stay safe 🏄🌊