I am heading from Brisbane to Sydney next week, probably getting the greyhound. Any suggestions on where to stop? I will probably take about a week to do the trip, and have already been to Surfer's Paradise but am definitely going to Byron Bay. Any other hints?

Also, any recommendations on good places/companies for beginner's surfing???

Thanks!

Have you thought of heading Noosa way before leaving Brisbane as it's a great location in itself and also quite a few different beaches in area where you'll find surf lessons for sure.
YHA Noosa is situated adjacent to Noosa Heads NP and they'll have info on lessons, and Maroochydore/Alexandra Headland/Mooloolabah you'll also be able to find schools as well.

Byron Bay will have lessons and heading further south, I'd reckon Coffs Harbour for sure, maybe Nambucca Heads past there a bit, Port MacQuarie maybe, though not renowned for its surf and further south again, Port Stephens/Shoal Bay and Newcastle also have plenty of beaches and likely locations for schools.

Another alternative that could be of interest to just using greyhound is having a look at surf safari/schools as I've heard of about week or longer trips that involve transport along the coast that will include surfing, surfing and more surfing and beginners are catered for.

When you consider that you'll pay for a greyhound ticket, probably a bit more if wanting to get to smaller beach stops, and then for surf lessons, getting it all rolled into one will ensure you get to see some idyllic great beaches along the way that you would otherwise not likely see.

Google up surf schools and surf safaris and you'll get a selection.

Thanks gonorth. I have found a few surf schools and hopefully one will be available when I plan to leave!

What would this forum do without you?!

check out Byron- of course...Coffs Harbour, Yamba/Maclean, MooBall is awesome for a short trip- everything is painted like cows! I was not impressed with Tweed Heads. Lismore is actually a really cool place as well. check out www.Australiablog.com for some more details about these places.