Where to Buy Used Surfboards in Port Macquarie (Local Guide 2025)
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Looking for a pre-loved board in Port Macquarie without getting stung? Here’s the local, no-BS guide I wish I’d read earlier—clear options, what to check before you pay, and where each choice shines depending on your level and budget.
Best places to buy used surfboards in Port Macquarie
Surfboard Broker (local guidance + in-house repairs)
If you want the safest path to a dialed-in board, start here. What makes Surfboard Broker different isn’t just a rack full of second-hand sticks—it’s the advice. I’ve found buying local always works better, and with Chad I felt he knew exactly what I needed for my waves. He’ll walk you through shape, size and construction (PU vs. EPS) for your surfing and typical conditions. If a board needs attention, he’ll tell you—and they can sort the repair in-house, which is a huge trust signal when you’re going used.
Why go here: curated stock, sizing by experience (and even by height/weight), honest condition notes, and help with dings/fin boxes before you take it home. The site lists boards by size ranges and ships too, but the local know-how is the kicker. Surfboardbroker Australia
How to choose a good used board (10-point quick checklist)
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Deck pressure dents: normal on used boards; avoid deep, spongy soft spots (delam risk).
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Rails & tail: run your fingers gently—look for hairline cracks, especially near the tail and around the leash plug.
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Fin boxes: wiggle fins; any play or stress cracks? Futures/FCS boxes should be solid.
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Nose & tail tips: small scrapes are fine; open or poorly done repairs aren’t.
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Bottom: check for creases (especially mid-section) and any “banana” bends.
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Stringer line: look for splits along the wood line.
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Weight check: if it feels suspiciously heavy for its size, it may be waterlogged.
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Laminate gloss vs. matte patches: dull, uneven areas can hint at past delam or heat damage.
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Dimensions & volume: match to your goals (e.g., mini-mal 7’0–8’0 for smooth progression; fish/twin with extra foam for summer).
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Repair honesty: this is where local shops shine. If the board needs something, they’ll tell you and quote it. With Chad, I’ve always had a straight answer and, if needed, the fix done right before pickup.
Typical price ranges around Port Macquarie (guide only)
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Softboards (learner): ~AU$120–$300
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Shortboards / fish / twins: ~AU$200–$600 (brand, condition and glassing swing this a lot)
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Funboards / mini-mals: ~AU$300–$700
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Longboards: ~AU$450–$1,000+
These are ballpark figures I’ve seen locally; stock moves fast and condition is everything. If you’re between two options, I’d rather pay AU$50–$100 more for a board that’s water-tight and correctly sized—the “cheap but wrong” board is the most expensive mistake over a season.
Repairs & trade-ins nearby
One of the biggest perks of staying local is repair workflow: minor rail dings, tail chips, or lifted boxes can be fixed without the shipping drama. When I’ve brought up a suspect area, I’ve gotten the “yep, we’ll sort that in the shop” answer—super reassuring. Shops may also do consignment or trade-ins; ask about timelines, commission, and how they present your board (clear photos and dims sell faster).
Where to sell your used board (quick steps)
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In-store consignment: the easiest. Clean the board, list accurate dims/volume, note repairs.
FAQs
What size should a beginner look for?
If you’re learning on local beachies, a 7’0–8’0 mini-mal or a foamie with enough volume keeps things fun and forgiving. Buy for paddle power and stability first.
Is EPS or PU better for second-hand?
Both can be great. PU feels classic and damp; EPS is lighter and can feel more lively. The right shape/volume matters more than the layup at beginner–intermediate levels.
Why buy local instead of online only?
Because fit beats hype. In my case, the local chat made all the difference—“he knew exactly what I needed for my waves”—and if a board needed love, it was fixed properly before I paddled out.
Conclusion
If you want it easy and right, start with local shops—Surfboard Broker for that surfer-to-surfer advice and repairs, and Soul Surf for a curated rack and straight talk. If you’re bargain-hunting and know how to inspect, Gumtree can deliver. Either way, pick for volume and condition first; the right board will keep you surfing more and stressing less.