Over the last decade or so Avalon has become the favoured "sea-change" destination for Sydney-siders looking to adopt the surfer lifestyle. As a result, the board-riding community here is large and enthusiastic but the skill level varies greatly so it's a good idea to watch for a bit before paddling into the fray.

North Avalon breaks along the north headland and a nearby sandbank and attracts lots of older longboarders who don't always succeed in getting out of each other's way. South Avalon is centred on a triangle-shaped sandbank near the 25 metre ocean rock pool (free entry) that generates a mix of fun easy waves.

The edge of the south cliff is known as Little Avalon, and here the swell sucks up hard on a shallow rock shelf to produce fast-barrelling tube rides.