Tucked within Broken Head Nature Reserve just 10 minutes south of Byron Bay, this secluded coastal gem combines lush rainforest headlands with pristine sandy beaches and rocky coves. Snorkel the clear inshore waters around the headland's rocky outcrops and tidal pools at low tide, where turtles are sometimes spotted from the beach. The reserve's beaches — Kings Beach, Whites Beach, and the main Broken Head Beach — offer calm conditions on gentle swell days. A short rainforest walk leads to Whites Beach's rocky coves and caves, while Snapper Rock reveals inviting rock pools. Park entry fees apply, and parking is limited, preserving the area's uncrowded, wild character.
Broken Head
IntermediateMAYBE
MAYBE
Fair. Experienced snorkellers only.
Showing last known conditions
Wave Height 0.0 mSwell Period 0.0 sWind Speed 6.8 knPrecipitation 0.0 mmTidal Phase flood
Last evaluated
© NewystatsThe spot
Community-maintained
Community contribution: submitted by Daniel
Know before you go
Logged by the community, confirmed by mods
Moderate risk: Outgoing tide current
Tidal currents around the headland and rocky points can strengthen significantly on an outgoing tide, especially near Snapper Rock and Whites Beach.
Moderate risk: Rip currents
The main beach and surf breaks can develop rip currents, particularly on larger swell days.
Moderate risk: Unpatrolled beach
The beach is completely unpatrolled with no lifeguards or flags present.
Low risk: Sharp rocks and reef
Rocky outcrops and reef platforms near the headland and in tidal pools can cause cuts and abrasions; wear reef shoes.
Low risk: Limited parking
Only a dozen parking spots at Snapper Rock track; the main lot fills quickly, especially during peak season and weekends.
Low risk: Rocky outcrops
Sharp exposed rocks and rock shelf along the shoreline and around the headland.
Wildlife Guide
No wildlife notes for this spot yet.
Gallery
3 photos from the community
Getting in
Shore entry
Entry
Drive 10 min south of Byron Bay town centre. Turn east off Broken Head Road onto Seven Mile Beach Road (dirt road through rainforest) to access the nature reserve and parking areas. The main Broken Head Beach is also accessible directly from Broken Head Road.
Parking & facilities
Limited parking at Snapper Rock track (approx. 12 spots) and at the main Broken Head Beach car park. Spaces fill early on weekends and holidays.
toiletsparkingpicnic_tablesdrinking_water
$4 per vehicle per hour at pay machines (tap-and-pay card or phone accepted; cash at Byron Bay Office).
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About this data
- Conditions last evaluated
- Spot data last updated
- Data sources
- Open-Meteo (marine & weather conditions), tide predictions via UTide, community contributors (descriptions, hazards, marine life).
- License
- Spot content licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0. How's the Spot is open source.
Weather & swell ┬╖ Open-Meteo marine & weather APIs Tides ┬╖ UTide harmonic analysis Sea & safety ┬╖ community reports