At the mouth of the mighty Clarence River on the NSW North Coast, the shifting sandbars form dynamic, shallow snorkeling grounds where freshwater meets the Pacific Ocean. These ever-changing sandy platforms near Yamba and Iluka offer warm, protected paddling conditions on calm days, with the river's outflow creating unique tidal pools and gutters to explore. The backdrop of the Yamba headland and lighthouse makes this a scenic and adventurous spot for those who understand river-mouth conditions.
Clarence River mouth sandbars
AdvancedMAYBE
MAYBE
Fair. Experienced snorkellers only.
Showing last known conditions
Wave Height 0.0 mSwell Period 0.0 sWind Speed 2.1 knPrecipitation 0.0 mmTidal Phase unknown
Last evaluated
DANGER: Explicit Risks Present
Clarence River mouth sandbars has hazards marked as danger. Entering the water here means you may face serious risks to your personal safety.
- Outgoing tide current danger
Strong outflow of river water toward the ocean can create powerful currents, especially on an outgoing tide near the main river channel.
- Rip currents danger
Rip currents frequently form in the channels between sandbars, particularly near the ocean entry.
The spot
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Community contribution: submitted by Daniel
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High risk: Outgoing tide current
Strong outflow of river water toward the ocean can create powerful currents, especially on an outgoing tide near the main river channel.
High risk: Rip currents
Rip currents frequently form in the channels between sandbars, particularly near the ocean entry.
Moderate risk: Shifting sandbars and submerged hazards
Sandbars shift constantly after rain and swell events, creating unpredictable shallow areas and drop-offs.
Moderate risk: Boat and jet ski traffic
The river mouth is a busy navigational channel with fishing boats, houseboats, and jet skis transiting through the sandbar area.
Low risk: Marine stingers
Bluebottles and occasional box jellyfish can be present in warmer months along the North Coast.
Wildlife Guide
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Getting in
Shore entry
Entry
Located at the mouth of the Clarence River between Yamba (south side) and Iluka (north side), approximately 670 km north of Sydney. Access the sandbars by walking from Turners Beach, Main Beach (Yamba), or from Whiting Beach near Hickey Island on the Yamba side. The area is also reachable from Iluka Beach on the northern side.
Parking & facilities
Street parking available along Yamba's beachfront roads, including near Turners Beach. Pay parking may apply in peak season. Iluka side also has parking near the beach and breakwall.
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Free access. No entry fee.
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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