The word 'Maroubra' comes from an Aboriginal word meaning 'like thunder' - an apt description of the sound of the waves pounding on the shoreline. These waves have made Maroubra one of the most popular surfing locations in Sydney and Australia's second only National Surfing Reserve. The beach is serviced by two surf life saving clubs, and is patrolled all year by Randwick City lifeguards. Volunteer lifesavers patrol the beach on weekends and school holidays during daylight saving months.
Maroubra Beach has deep ties to the local community, recognised in the National Surfing Reserves as a place of intrinsic environmental, heritage, sporting and cultural value. Nicknamed the Bra, the beach is a 1km curved strip of white sand that offers some of Australia’s most consistent waves.
Located between Malabar Headland National Park to the south and Jack Vanney Memorial Park to the north, the beach is popular with families who are drawn to the beach's picnic areas, shaded playgrounds and safe rock pools. The Bay Hotel is nearby as well as surf shops and cafés.
Maroubra Beach is the best surfing beach in the eastern suburbs, popular with experienced surfers who enjoy the consistent reef and beach breaks. A decent swell brings three or four beach breaks to life, and on a happening day, board-riders are spread along the length of the beach. If you want to try your hand at learning to surf, try Sydney Safe Surf Schools.
The reef at the southern end creates Maroubra's premium wave, which on a south swell and with a southwest breeze, breaks as a classic barrelling right-hander. As with all Sydney beaches, the best place to swim is between the red and yellow safety flags.
Maroubra Beach also has a free outdoor gym with a range of strength and cardio equipment, including an upright cycle, chest press, step-ups, stepping stones, balance beam and stretch station. Inspiring views of the beach will keep you motivated.
The beach and parklands are also used for picnics, playing, fishing, walking and jogging while the Maroubra Skate Park and innovative playground for kids are nearby. From dawn, board-riders grace the waves at Maroubra.
Famous for its consistent waves, Maroubra Beach is a popular destination for experienced surfers and beginners keen to learn from the local experts. The beach is 40 minutes by bus from the city centre. You can take a bus from Hyde Park, opposite Bathurst Street.