Clarkes Beach, Byron Bay

Moderate risk: Unpatrolled beach

Clarkes Beach is not usually patrolled by lifeguards. Swim with caution.

Low risk: Low tide shallowness

At low tide the reef becomes very shallow, increasing risk of injury from rocks.

Low risk: Variable water clarity

Visibility can be poor depending on swell and wind conditions. Best at high tide.

Low risk: Low tide shallow sandbars

At low tide the water becomes very shallow over sandbars, with waves dumping abruptly. Snorkeling is significantly better at high tide.

Low risk: Surf crowds and rips

During school holidays, weekends, and bigger swell days, crowded surf conditions can create dangerous zones, especially near The Pass rocky outcrop.

Low risk: Variable water visibility

Wind and swell can rapidly reduce visibility; best conditions are on calm, no-wind days at high tide.

Low risk: Shallow reef at low tide

The rocky reef becomes very shallow (sometimes less than 1 m) at low tide, increasing the risk of cuts from coral or rock contact.