So... I went digging out photos taken some 7 years ago... when I was studying for a short course in Australia... apologies for yellowish photos.
(Below: Behind me, lifeguard has collasped the "flags" and taking them in, I am sitting with the other flag; 5pm, knock-off time, swim at your own risk. My advice: Swim between the flags. I didn't and I regretted it.)
Beach there is HOT in summer. The sand is so scorching I've got to keep my slippers on while walking along the beach.
(Below: This ain't no desert, its the beach... long wide beach...)
Surfing? This is the place... further left to the beach where I was at, the waves are stronger.