I have a friend who wants to learn how to windsurf... and he lives on Phillip Island in Victoria. Can anyone suggest beginner friendly sailing sites in the area that would suit someone starting out? I'm hoping for locations with flat water, on-shore winds, shallow water, sandy bottom (no rocks), no dangerous currents... etc etc. PLUS, where would the nearest windsurfing retail shop that I could send him to? Any info gratefully received.

At the end of the main street of town is probably the friendliest beach.
There are no windsurf shops nearby, or even remotely close. Sandringham is as close as you'll get.
Funny story .... the first time I taught my now wife, when we were 18, was on that beach. The not so funny part was, later that very day, the biggest caught White Pointer, ever, anywhere, in the world, was around the corner at Seal rocks. This shark was one meter longer than the shark they used in the movie Jaws.
Don't panic, you'll be OK.
Just don't think all that nice shallow water around the bridge is a good idea. We got told off by the coast guard, they said we were mad and were going to end up as shark poo. Pity, it was good sailing there.

Inverloch

Select to expand quote

kato said..
Inverloch

Yes Inverloch
When in harness and he says, 'I want to go faster ', Sandy point is only 40 mins away.

Select to expand quote

Imax1 said..
Funny story .... the first time I taught my now wife, when we were 18, was on that beach. The not so funny part was, later that very day, the biggest caught White Pointer, ever, anywhere, in the world, was around the corner at Seal rocks. This shark was one meter longer than the shark they used in the movie Jaws.

there used to be a photo of it on the wall in the isle of wight pub, showing it hanging from a crane. I believe vic caught an even bigger one a few years later off south africa somewhere.

i fished from every jetty and bay on the island, any time of day and night, and from our boat, fairly regularly for nearly 8 years and never once saw a toothy shark. Plenty of gummies. In the 80s san remo area was considered a good windsurfing spot. but current is very strong. maybe everyone's getting soft lately

Cleeland Bight Beach at the end of Cottesloe Ave

Best learning spots are nearby at Inverloch and Sandy Point (Shallow Inlet), depending on the wind direction/strength and tides. Both have enclosed, shallow, flat water.

Many thanks to all... I've passed on the info to my mate in Phillip Island. Cheers everyone!

Hit up Johno at SurfTrax Philip island, he's a qualified instructor and all round good guy