Byron and Tweed to host major national surfing events in 2026

BYRON Bay and the Tweed Coast will take centre stage on the national surfing calendar in 2026, hosting two of Surfing Australia’s flagship championship events.

The Australian Para Surfing Titles return to Byron Bay in March with the national longboard titles to be held at Cabarita in July.

Far North Coast will also host multiple Pro Junior events with the Oz Grom Open at Lennox Head in July and the Tweed Coast Pro at Kingscliff in October.

The Para championships have become a signature event for the region, hosting local champions Mark “Mono” Stewart and Joel Taylor.

Both used the event last year as part of their qualification for the Australian team with Taylor going on to win a world title in the United States.

Surfing Australia’s chief of sport Luke Madden said the 2026 calendar reflects the strength and diversity of Australian surfing.

“The 2026 National Calendar showcases the best of Australian surfing – iconic locations, stand-alone national championships for each discipline, and clear pathways from grassroots through to international representation,” Madden said.

 

“Each event has been purposefully placed to suit the discipline, the athletes and the community, while continuing to strengthen partnerships with host regions and event partners across the country.”

Surfers at the longboard titles will also compete for a chance to represent the Australian team.

The nationals have been a stepping stone for surfers to reach the world longboard tour and attracts competitors from across the country.

Byron Bay surfer Kai Ellice-Flint broke through in 2025 for his first win on the world title.

It will be a mobile event on the Tweed Coast with Kingscliff earmarked as one of the locations.

Other major events include the Australian Indigenous Surfing Titles at Bells Beach and the junior titles at Margaret River in Western Australia.