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The stereotype is true: Aussies really do love sports. There's cricket, of course, as in other Commonwealth countries. Thoroughbred horse racing wins the hearts of both punters and fashionistas. And then there's the body slamming that is Australian Rules Football.

But as Canadians populate the border, Australians tend to cluster along the coastline. So if you want to get physical like a local, you really should grab a board. While every Australian has a favourite beach – and firmly believes it to be the best in the world – some surfing spots really are better than others. Here are our top six. BELLS BEACH This Victoria beach is home to the longest-running pro surfing event in the world, and was the world's first “surfing reserve.” Not for beginners. LENNOX POINT Much of the New South Wales coastline is great for surfing. But head to this spot in the north for a beautiful right-handed point break, surrounded by lush green hills and (slightly) removed from nearby Byron Bay's hippie crowds. KIRRA BEACH This Gold Coast beach is a favourite of champion surfer Kelly Slater for good reason. It's gorgeous. But be warned: you'll be battling big local crowds here. TEA TREE BAY This spot in Noosa National Park is one of the few beaches that face north. It's a top pick for long-boarders and nature lovers, but beginners might be better off at First Point, just around the corner. SURFERS POINT Western Australia has a bounty of surf spots, including 40 breaks in the Margaret River area south of Perth. Surfers Point is the main draw, with a big peak that almost always has a wave. SHIPSTERN BLUFF Top-level surfers willing to brave Tasmania's chilly waters will be rewarded with some of the biggest swells in the country. If you're up to it, make the trek to this remote spot, a ferocious break long thought unsurfable.