Mudjimba Island

Mudjimba Island (also known as Old Woman Island) is a low-profile, exposed offshore reef break on the Sunshine Coast. The surfing is generally centered on a powerful, fast right-hand wave that peels along the western side of the island, and it’s especially valued when other mainland beach breaks are not working. Best conditions are reported in winter, with June highlighted as a standout month for surf quality and consistency. Spot-level wind notes point to westerly winds as favorable, while southerly winds can be less favorable for the mainland but are where the island’s wind-shadow effect can help keep the break usable. This is not an easy or forgiving spot. Access typically requires boat or jet-ski entry, or a long, tiring paddle from the mainland beach that demands high fitness. Water movement is described as having strong tidal currents and sweeps between the island and mainland, and the reef is shallow in places—so careful tide timing is important to avoid hitting the reef sections. Safety is the overriding concern here: hazards include rocks, sharks, jellyfish, sharp reef, strong currents, and sea snakes. Warnings specifically emphasize that it’s a sharky spot—use extra caution at dawn/dusk and when bait fish are present—and respect standard surf etiquette for a sensitive offshore lineup.