No waves is Australia? What now?
Are you annoyed that there are no waves on the beach today? Don't worry — surfers know that flat days are the best times for big adventures beyond the break!
Along its more than 34,000 kilometres of shoreline, Australia is a surfer's dream, with breaks for all skill levels. But even in this surfer's paradise, there are days when the ocean looks like an old paddling pool and the only sound is tiny waves lapping the shoreline. These are the feared "flat days", the bane of every surfer’s life.
People who aren't familiar with the term might think of a flat day as a peaceful day to relax on the beach. But for surfers, a flat day is a challenge. So, what's the plan?
Searching for surf
The first thing to do is to go find surf somewhere else. With such a vast array of surf spots that work off different conditions, there may be a break that's working and within driving distance. Consult the forecast, check the spot map, and head off to a new spot.
Failing that, you'll have to choose an alternative?
Living Life Like a Surfer
A surfer's "stoke" is their passion and emotional investment in surfing. Even when the waves are flat, surfers still have a deep love for the water. Surfers keep themselves interested in and passionate about the sport through a wide range of pursuits and ways of thinking.
One way, and a productive one at that, is to hone the forecasting skills. Surfers generally know more about the weather than the weatherman, particularly in the weather patterns that will affect the local breaks. Flat days are turned into boot camps for weather predictions. They look at swell charts, satellite images to see if storms are coming, and wind patterns in great detail, like a detective solving a case. What is the goal? To be able to pinpoint exactly when the next swell will hit. Think about how proud you'll be when you and your friends are the first ones out when the perfect waves come in!
Sports
What about if it's really flat? Well, how about some other sporting activites? Attending a cricket match at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground, especially during the annual Boxing Day Test or the fiercely contested Ashes series against England, is a must-do experience. Soak up the atmosphere and sink a couple of tinnies to while away the flat spell. Wherever you are there's likely a game going on, or a game to take part in. The beach makes for a great pitch too.
If you're a surfer visiting Australia for the first time, seeking a unique sporting experience might be just the distraction you are looking for. Australian Rules Football, commonly known as Aussie Rules, is an exhilarating option. Originating in the mid-19th century, this fast-paced and physically demanding sport combines elements of rugby, soccer, and Gaelic football. Catching an Australian Football League (AFL) game will give you a taste of local culture and athleticism. The AFL Grand Final at the Melbourne Cricket Ground is a highlight, drawing massive crowds and showcasing the sport's dynamic play and community spirit. Even outside the finals, regular season matches offer thrilling entertainment and a deep dive into Australian sporting life.
Other Popular Pastimes
We all yearn for the ideal wave, but flat days provide an alternative type of excitement. Get your friends together and give up the board for a taste of traditional Australian hobbies. Maybe you feel like playing the classic coin-flipping game Two-Up, which is traditionally played over a campfire or if you're more of a beach volleyball player, that's a great way to get some exercise and friendly competition with the sea wind in your hair.
The best part? The nice sound of the ocean waves is always a great addition to your fun.
But hey, if you're feeling a little extra lucky and want some entertainment without even leaving your beach chair, Australia's online casino scene has got you covered! You can explore games for real money at online casinos in Australia using any internet-connected device. Pokies are particularly popular in Australia, offering a fun way to pass the time along with many other games. Imagine a game with some strategy, some luck, and a virtual world you can explore from the beach or wherever you are with your friends.
The Surfboard Spa Treatment
It can be rough to catch waves, and even the best surfers damage their boards sometimes. Days when it's flat are like playing Dr. Ding. Get out the ding repair kit and carefully set to work fixing up the cracks or dings. Flat spells are also the perfect time for a surf wax maintenance. Carefully remove old wax with a wax comb and apply new coats in smooth, even strokes. The perfect wax job is all about getting the best grip for the next session. Take the time to get ready at time when you won't be missing out on any waves.
From Grommet to Guru, Sharing the Stoke
Surfing is a group sport where people come together to share a love. And when the waves are flat, what a better time to build that community?
Do you remember how it felt to catch your first wave? Most surfers do! Share knowledge and excitement with eager newbies and teach them the basics, like how to do pop-ups, paddle skills, and stay safe in the ocean. Seeing a grommet's (young surfer) first wobbly ride is a treat in and of itself; it gets both the teacher and the learner excited.
Flat spells are a nightmare, but there's plenty of other things to be doing while waiting for the next swell.