Kingscliff Set to Host World's Largest Women's Surf Festival Again

The NSW Government and Surfing Australia have announced the return of the Seas The Day Women's Surf Festival to Kingscliff Beach next month, backed by $110,000 in state government funding.

Now entering its fourth year, the festival has grown into the world's largest women's surfing event, attracting competitors and visitors from across the country to the NSW North Coast.

The 2026 event will run from 20-21 June and aims to create a welcoming, pressure-free environment for women and girls of all ages and skill levels to experience surfing, while also encouraging greater involvement in the surf industry.

Families will also have the opportunity to take part, with parents invited to assist young surfers aged under 14 in the water.

Alongside the surfing competition, the free festival will feature live music, surf film screenings, entertainment and guest talks from female professional surfers and leaders in wellness, sustainability and photography.

The popular Celebrity Surf Challenge will also return, bringing together world champions, Olympians and media personalities to support women's participation in sport.

Festivalgoers will also be able to participate in health and wellbeing workshops, including yoga, breathwork and ice bath sessions.

Last year's event drew record crowds, with 314 women competing in the surfing competition and more than 15,000 people attending across the weekend.

The festival forms part of the Minns Government's broader push to increase women's participation in sport through its Play Her Way strategy, which aims to break down barriers for women and girls both on and off the field.

The NSW Government has committed $1 million to deliver the strategy between 2024 and 2028, alongside more than $4 million in additional sport sector initiatives supporting female participation.

Minister for Sport Steve Kamper said the festival provided a supportive space for women and girls to get involved in surfing.

"Seas The Day is a fantastic opportunity for female surfers of all ages and abilities to compete or give surfing a go in a supportive, non-judgemental environment," he said.

Minister for Women Jodie Harrison said the event continued to strengthen community connections while promoting health and wellbeing.

"Whether it be to compete, share waves with friends or simply be in the water - surfing has so many benefits," she said.

Minister for the North Coast Janelle Saffin said the festival would also provide an important economic boost for the region.

"Events like Seas The Day bring our community together while showcasing our world-class breaks to thousands of visitors who support local businesses and the regional economy," she said.

Chris Symington, CEO of Surfing Australia, said the event had become a major fixture on the surfing calendar.

"The event reflects the continued growth, strength and professionalism of women's surfing in Australia," he said.

The Seas The Day Women's Surf Festival will be held at Kingscliff Beach from 20-21 June.