Clifton Beach is Hobart’s most popular surf spot, located just a 30-minute drive from the city center. This beach attracts a lot of surfers, so expect to see plenty of people out in the water. It has a patrolled setup, making it a good choice for beginners who want to give surfing a try. You'll find all the facilities you need for a day at the beach.

The surf here works best with southeast swells, but it can handle south and southwest swells as well. Swell sizes can start at about 0.3 meters (1 foot), and you'll generally find beach breaks over sand. At the south end, the waves are usually a bit softer, revealing a nice right-hander on moderate swells, plus it provides some protection from west winds. Moving up the beach, the waves get a bit more powerful, and the sandbanks are set against deeper channels, which can help break up those common close-outs. In smaller, onshore conditions, the surf can definitely be mushy and gutless.

The best time to hit the waves is during low to mid-high tide, with northeast winds being ideal. Clifton Beach is a solid choice for beginners looking to practice their skills, but keep in mind that it's popular, so you might have to share the waves with a good number of fellow surfers.