Iluka Bluff, within Bundjalung National Park on the NSW North Coast, offers a relatively sheltered beach entry to shallow subtidal reefs perfect for snorkelling. The headland lookout provides sweeping views over the Pacific Ocean and is a prime whale-watching spot during migration season (May–November). The beach is patrolled by surf lifesavers during peak summer, making it family-friendly. Just 100m from the car park past pandanus palms, the pristine white sands of Bluff Beach give way to clear waters over rocky reef habitats teeming with marine life. The nearby Iluka Nature Reserve (a World Heritage-listed rainforest) adds a lush backdrop to this coastal snorkelling destination.
Bundjalung National Park - Iluka Bluff
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Wave Height 0.8 mSwell Period 6.0 sWind Speed 12 knPrecipitation 0.0 mmTidal Phase slack
Last evaluated
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Community contribution: submitted by Daniel
Know before you go
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Moderate risk: Swell and shore break
Southerly swells can produce strong shore breaks and surging waves against the rocks near the Bluff.
Low risk: Rip currents
Rip currents can develop along Bluff Beach, especially near the reef edges. Swim between the flags during patrolled season.
Low risk: Sharp reef rock
Sharp rock edges on the shallow reefs can cause cuts and abrasions. Wear reef shoes or booties.
Low risk: Bluebottles / marine stingers
Marine stingers (bluebottles) may occasionally be present, particularly in warmer months.
Wildlife Guide
No wildlife notes for this spot yet.
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Getting in
Shore entry
Entry
From Iluka town centre, drive north along Iluka Road towards the Bundjalung National Park entrance. Follow signs to Iluka Bluff picnic area/lookout. The car park is located a short distance from Bluff Beach.
Parking & facilities
Car park available at Iluka Bluff picnic area, just 100m from Bluff Beach sand.
parkingtoiletspicnic_tables
$8 per vehicle per day park entry fee (Bundjalung National Park).
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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