Cruising with Style: My Favorite Picks for the Best Longboard Brands in Australia

If there’s one thing I’ve learned from years of chasing lines across the Australian coast — from the slow, sunlit waves of Noosa to the reef rollers of Yallingup — it’s this: a great longboard can make or break the ride.

Longboarding isn’t just a style of surfing; it’s a mindset. It’s about flow, patience, and harmony with the wave. And when it comes to gear, Australia is home to some of the most respected and innovative shapers on the planet. So if you’re looking for the best longboard brands in Australia, you’re in luck — you’re searching in the right part of the world.

Why Australia Is a Paradise for Longboard Lovers

Australia’s surf scene is famously diverse. While shortboarders flock to punchy beach breaks and competitive lineups, longboarders have carved out a more peaceful lane — from the rolling points of the Sunshine Coast to the gentle beachies of WA.

The longboard brands in Australia reflect that vibe. They prioritize craftsmanship, glide, heritage, and community. Many of the best Aussie brands still shape by hand, stay close to their roots, and blend performance with soul.

What I love most? You don’t have to look far. Some of the best boards I’ve ridden came straight from backyard sheds, shaped by people who live and breathe surfing.

The Best Longboard Brands in Australia

Thomas Surfboards – The Gold Standard of Aussie Logging

If you’ve ever watched a surf film featuring long, clean lines and dreamy cross-steps, chances are you’ve seen a Thomas board in action. Based in Noosa, Thomas Surfboards — shaped by Thomas Bexon — is widely considered one of the best longboard brands in Australia, especially for traditional logging.

My take: I rode a Thomas Stepdeck at Tea Tree Bay on a small 2-foot day. It was like dancing with the wave — smooth, intuitive, and perfectly balanced. These boards aren’t just beautiful — they’re engineered for flow.

• Ideal for: Classic logging, nose riding, and point breaks.
• Real-world note: Expect a premium price, but unmatched quality.

McTavish Surfboards – Iconic Heritage Meets Modern Craftsmanship

You can’t talk about longboard brands in Australia without tipping your hat to Bob McTavish. A true pioneer of modern surfing, McTavish boards blend retro roots with modern updates. Shaped in Byron Bay, their designs cater to all styles — from progressive turns to old-school trim.

I tested their “Involvement” model at The Pass and immediately felt the difference — fast entry, solid pivot, and the ability to lock into a pocket like no other.

• Ideal for: Surfers who appreciate history, innovation, and a balance of performance and glide.
• Bonus: Their Byron showroom is a must-visit if you’re ever in town.

Keyo Surfboards – A Nod to Australia’s Golden Surf Era

If you’re into the classic 60s aesthetic and shapes that respect heritage, Keyo Surfboards is a timeless pick. Based in Sydney’s Northern Beaches, they’ve been part of Aussie surf history since 1959 and remain one of the best longboard brands in Australia for riders who love authenticity.

Their Classic Nose Rider is one of the best boards I’ve ever used on a glassy morning in Crescent Head. Think slow carves, tip rides, and a board that rewards patience.

• Ideal for: Purists and those seeking a slice of Australian surf history underfoot.

DMS Surfboards – A High-Performance Twist on Logging

Looking for something more progressive? DMS Surfboards, based in the Gold Coast, blends longboard outlines with cutting-edge materials. They’re known for their carbon wraps and EPS builds, offering speed, responsiveness, and modern maneuverability.

I tested a 9'1" model with a pulled-in tail on a windy day in Currumbin — and it handled like a shortboard but paddled like a log. Ideal for beach breaks or those ready to step up their game.

• Perfect for: Intermediate to advanced surfers who want hybrid performance.

Takayama (Honorable Mention – Distributed in Australia)

While not born in Australia, Donald Takayama’s boards are widely available here and deserve a mention. They’ve earned respect for their consistent shape, quality finish, and nose-riding capability.

If you're a traveling surfer like me and can’t find a local brand at short notice, this is a dependable fallback that’s sold across major Aussie surf retailers.

Where to Buy: Finding Authentic Aussie Longboards

To get your hands on boards from the best longboard brands in Australia, here’s what I recommend:

• Buy local when you can – Many small shapers do direct orders, and you’ll get the real story behind your board.
• Check Surf Shops – Stores like Onboard Store (Victoria), Classic Malibu (Noosa), and Zak Surfboards (Melbourne) carry top-tier shapes.
• Online platforms – SurfStitch, Boardcave, and Surfboard Empire offer access to custom orders, especially for those living outside coastal towns.

Where to Buy: Finding Authentic Aussie Longboards

Real Advice for Choosing the Right Longboard

If you’re just starting out, don’t get caught up in brand names too quickly. Instead, focus on:

• Volume & stability: Especially for beginners.
• Fin setup: Single fins offer classic glide; 2+1 adds turning ability.
• Wave type: Ride a Thomas at Noosa? Yes. But maybe not the best choice for punchy Bondi shorebreaks.

Try before you buy if possible. Rent, demo, or borrow. Because the best longboard isn’t just a brand — it’s the one that matches you.

Real Advice for Choosing the Right Longboard

Final Thoughts: Australian Craftsmanship, Wave by Wave

From my perspective, the best longboard brands in Australia don’t just build boards — they build community. They blend design, performance, and storytelling in a way that reflects Australia’s deep-rooted surf culture.

Whether you're cruising Noosa points, trimming through Sydney’s outer reefs, or logging solo sessions in WA, these boards carry with them not just function, but feeling. Choose wisely, ride often, and you’ll see why Australian longboarding is in a class of its own.

And if you’re planning a surf trip from abroad, don’t forget to line up your ETA or eVisitor visa before chasing waves. Australian Immigration Services can help streamline that process so your stoke doesn’t get stuck at the airport.