THE LURE Western Australia offers everything; the flattest of flat water spots, isolated riding, immense downwinders and world class waves. The winds here can be some of the most consistent in the world when the infamous Fremantle Doctor kicks in. Being home to Perth, the most isolated city in the world, WA has a unique character and is still the road less travelled by many visiting Australia. Lancelin is only 130 kilometres north of Perth. The town itself is small but explodes during the summer with the influx of windsurfers and kitesurfers from all over the world.
THE SET UP: The wind is predominantly southwesterly and the beach works well for anything westerly with cross- to cross-onshore conditions at the southerly end of the bay. The inside is shallow and flat so you should be aware, depending on the tide, you may find that reef is exposed or very close to the surface. You can also head up to North Point, opposite Lancelin Island which is another good spot for beginners.
There are a number of breaks at Lancelin including Main Break, Hole in the Wall and South Passage which can offer good waves in the right conditions but can also get very busy with windsurfers during the peak season. There are more accessible waves at Back Beach.
WIND & WEATHER: Air temps can vary from 24 degrees to 36 degrees C. Usually around 28 to 30°C.
WATER: Water is usually around 20 degrees but varies throughout the season from 19 to 21.
THE SCENE: Lancelin is a relatively quiet little town with a couple of bars, a cafe and a few takeways. Accomodation in Lancelin is plentiful with short term lets, a camp site and Lancelin Lodge which has provided a bed for many a weary windsurfer and kitesurfer. Note that Australia doesn't operate the same free camping policies as New Zealand and you may find a Ranger moving you on or even fining you if you choose to sleep in your van or car in some places.
GETTING ABOUT: Car, van, ute, campervan are the way to go (preferably 4wd).
DON'T MISS: • Lancelin Lodge pizza oven • Dolphins feeding at sunset • The sand dunes
AIRPORTS: Perth (PER) - 90 minutes from Lancelin.
FACT BOX
Currency:
Australian Dollar (AUD) £1 = AUD 2.25 / US$1 = AUD 1.1 / €1 = AUD 1.65
ATM:
There is an ATM machine in Lancelin.
Airport:
Perth International Airport (PER)
Transfer:
90 minutes from PER
Car Hire:
In Lancelin everything is within walking/cycling distance. Transport will be needed to explore the rest of WA.
