Australia’s 33,000-kilometre coastline has long drawn sea changers—but for surfers, not every beach town makes the cut.
While coastal living remains in high demand, only a select few communities offer the consistent swell, safe breaks, and accessible surf spots that define a true surf town. As internal migration to regional areas accelerates and supply tightens, surf-friendly suburbs with new housing in the pipeline are attracting fresh attention from both buyers and developers.
Iconic destinations like Bondi, Bells Beach, and the Gold Coast command premium prices, while tourist favourites such as Byron Bay and Noosa Heads now have median house prices of $2,975,000 and $2,050,000, respectively. Yet, demand for surf-side living remains strong, realestate.com.au reported.
According to the latest Regional Movers Index by the Regional Australia Institute (RAI) and Commonwealth Bank, coastal towns are leading internal migration, with the Sunshine Coast, Greater Geelong, and Lake Macquarie topping the list in 2024. The Sunshine Coast has held first place for nine consecutive quarters.
To meet this growing demand, developers are rolling out new home projects in both established and emerging surf towns across the country.
Positioned between Caloundra and Maroochydore, Bokarina is emerging as a premium surf-side hub. This beachside suburb offers nine kilometres of shoreline, a seasonally patrolled surf beach, restaurants, and a scenic coastal walk.
With just 1,935 residents at the 2021 Census, Bokarina’s population is expanding thanks to high-end apartment developments.
According to realestate.com.au, Bokarina’s median house price rose 3.8% to $1,552,500 over the 12 months to March 2025, while unit prices surged 19.4% to $1.6 million.
While Victoria’s Surf Coast boasts well-known surf spots, Winchelsea offers a quieter inland alternative. Just a short drive to Bells Beach and Jan Juc, Winchelsea is one of two designated “growth towns” in the Surf Coast Shire.
With a population set to hit 10,000 by 2050, it offers relative affordability with a median house price of $650,000.
The nearby Barwon River and easy access to the coast enhance its appeal for lifestyle buyers.
Tucked between Ballina and Lennox Head, Skennars Head is a coastal gem just 30 minutes from Byron Bay. It offers panoramic views, quiet beaches, and lush green spaces—and now, a major housing boost.
Aureus, a new beachfront master-planned community, will add around 400 homes through a mix of lots, house-and-land packages, and architect-designed townhomes.
Skennars Head’s median house price rose 8% to $1,625,000 over the past year. Nearby, Lennox Rise is also under construction, with land priced between $720,000 and $895,000.
Globally renowned for its surf breaks, the Margaret River region offers more than 130km of coastline and 75 surf spots. Beyond the waves, it features forests, caves, rivers, and a thriving food and wine scene.
Despite its reputation, Margaret River remains relatively affordable, with a median house price of $825,000 after 10.4% growth in the past year.
Major developments include:
Located on South Australia’s Fleurieu Peninsula, Victor Harbor blends beach lifestyle with convenience, just 90 minutes from Adelaide. Its 32km of coastline, surf-ready waters, and 16,000-strong population support a lively mix of recreation and local amenity.
The town’s median house price sits at $692,700, and development is accelerating:
Océane Victor Harbor, a 700-lot master-planned community, is now selling from $289,990 and is expected to be completed by January 2032, realestate.com.au reported.
Whether it’s surf culture, scenic beauty, or a chance to enter the market at a lower price point, Australia’s surf towns continue to attract buyers—and developers are responding with waves of new housing supply.
