Everybody Go Surfing: My Wave-Chasing Adventure at Spot X, Australia

“I took off on a wave, went down the side, popped out the other end, and went, shit, I’m still alive!

Quoted by Greg Noll (on surfing Waimea Bay for the fist time)”

There’s something about the ocean that calms your mind and kicks up your adrenaline at the same time. That mix of fear and thrill, of finding your balance while battling the pull of a wave—that’s the magic of surfing. And for me, learning to surf in Australia was more than just a bucket list tick. It was a full-on, saltwater-soaked, sandy-haired adventure.

During my travels through Thailand and the Australian coast, I knew I had to do it. Learn to surf. Just once. Just to say I did. But the moment I stood up on that board and felt the wave carry me, I realised why people fall in love with it. That one wave turned into a passion.

Here’s how it all went down at Spot X Surf Camp in Australia.

Finding the Perfect Surf Camp on the East Coast

While backpacking across Australia’s east coast, I kept hearing about Mojo Surf’s Spot X camp. Tucked away in a beautiful, lesser-known stretch of coast between Sydney and Byron Bay, Spot X is the kind of place you arrive at for two days and end up staying for two weeks. The vibe is pure coastal freedom—sand, surfboards, and the sound of the ocean always in the background.

I booked a two-day surf experience, packed my sunblock, and jumped on the Mojo Surf bus, unsure what to expect. Would I actually learn to surf, wipe out in the first five minutes or would I love it or hate it? I had no clue. But I was all in.

Welcome to Spot X: Where the Beach Is Your Backyard

The moment I arrived at Spot X, I got it. The surfboards lined up like soldiers on the sand. The cabins painted in bright colours. The shared meals and beach bonfires. The people from all over the world, gathered in this little slice of surf heaven. Everyone there was relaxed, welcoming, and, quite literally, barefoot.

The first evening set the tone. We sat around a fire, swapped travel stories, shared a few drinks, and watched the stars burn bright above the crashing waves. It was that kind of place. No pretence, just good energy and good people.

My First Surf Lesson: The Reality vs The Fantasy

Surfing looks easy when you’re watching from the beach. The pros glide across the water, standing tall, riding waves like it’s second nature. But learning to surf is something else entirely.

Our instructor for the weekend was Jordan Rattle, a laid-back Tasmanian surfer with sun-bleached hair and the kind of calm energy that makes you feel like everything’s going to be fine—even when you’re being tossed by a wave like a rag doll.

We started on land, where Jordan took us through the basics. Paddling. Popping up. Balancing. Falling safely. The board felt massive under my arms. The sand felt hot beneath my feet. I was eager, but nervous.

Then it was time to hit the water.

The first wave knocked me off before I could even attempt to stand. The second soaked me with a salty slap across the face. But the third—I caught it. For a split second, I stood up. Not for long. But it was enough. That brief glide across the surface was electric. I couldn’t stop grinning.

Jordan cheered us on as we stumbled, tried again, and slowly found our rhythm. He encouraged us not to worry about perfection, but to focus on the feeling. That was the best advice he could have given.

An Interview with a Surfer: Jordan Rattle Shares His Story

Between lessons, I had the chance to sit down with Jordan and ask about his journey with surfing. His answers reminded me that surfing isn’t just a sport—it’s a lifestyle.

At what point did you know surfing was more than just a hobby?

“The moment I caught my first wave on a point break back home in Tasmania. That sense of gliding weightlessness—it’s addictive. It changed everything.”

How do you stay motivated on the days you just don’t feel like surfing?

“I tell myself, ‘You’ll regret not going.’ And it’s true. Once I’m out there, I never regret it. The only way to get better is to show up.”

If you weren’t a surfer, what would you be?

“Probably an artist or musician. But I can’t draw and I’m tone-deaf, so it’s lucky I surf.”

Do you compete in surf competitions?

“No, I don’t really want to make fun serious. I’d rather have serious fun.”

What’s your favourite wave to surf?

“Mays Point, back in Tasmania. It doesn’t work often, but when it does, it’s perfect. Long rides, barrels, everything you want. You only need one good wave there and it’s enough for the whole day.”

What places have you surfed so far, and which was the most memorable?

“I’ve surfed in Indonesia, Vietnam, and Thailand. Indo had the best waves, but I found some hidden gems in Vietnam too. I’d love to surf in North America and South America. Basically, anywhere with a coastline.”

What music pumps you up to surf?

“It’s not really about music for me. It’s seeing other people surf that gets me excited. Watching a surf video or just seeing someone catch a wave—it’s enough.”

Favourite surfer?

“Kelly Slater. He’s a living legend. His mindset, his approach—he’s incredibly inspiring.”

Spot X Life: More Than Just Surf Lessons

Surfing was the main event, but Spot X offered so much more. Between sessions, we had beach volleyball games, yoga by the sea, and chill time in hammocks strung between the trees. Meals were served in a communal area where conversations flowed freely and laughter echoed into the night.

There was a photographer on-site snapping photos of our surf attempts—some heroic, some hilarious. We’d all gather around in the evenings to see who had the best wipeout or who managed to actually look cool while riding a wave.

Mojo Surf also gifted us some branded gear—t-shirts, caps, and sweatshirts. It might sound cheesy, but getting that first “surfer tee” felt like a badge of honour.

Lessons Learned (On and Off the Board)

Surfing taught me more than just how to pop up on a board. It reminded me to let go of perfection, to embrace discomfort, and to trust the process. Every wave is different. Every attempt is a lesson. And every fall is part of the ride.

I also learned that the best experiences are the ones where you throw yourself into something new without knowing the outcome. I didn’t go to Spot X expecting to fall in love with surfing. But I left with sandy feet, sore arms, and a heart full of ocean love.

Why You Should Try Surfing at Spot X

If you’ve ever considered surfing, Spot X is the perfect place to start. The vibe is inclusive and beginner-friendly, the instructors are supportive, and the setting is straight out of a postcard. You don’t need to be athletic or need prior experience. You just need the willingness to try, fall, and try again.

Whether you stay for two days or two weeks, you’ll walk away with more than just a new skill. You’ll gain memories, friendships, and the kind of confidence that comes from doing something that once scared you.

Final Thoughts: Everybody Go Surfing

Greg Noll’s quote about surviving his first massive wave rings true. Surfing has that effect. It makes you feel alive. Raw, windblown, and totally in the moment.

Spot X didn’t just teach me how to ride a wave. It reminded me of the joy that comes from doing something purely for the thrill of it. No filters. No ego. Just the ocean, the board, and you.

So if you ever find yourself on the Australian coast with a couple of free days, look up Mojo Surf Spot X. Pack your swimmers, ditch your expectations, and go surfing. You’ll leave with aching muscles and a glowing soul.

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