Kingscliff Beach (also known as Cudgen Beach) is a stunning stretch of golden sand on the Tweed Coast of northern NSW, framed by volcanic headlands and backed by coastal dunes. The real snorkeling gem here is at the southern end where Cudgen Creek meets the ocean, forming a protected estuarine lagoon with calm, crystal-clear waters. This is a premier beginner-friendly snorkel spot where you can float effortlessly over sandy patches and seagrass beds, with excellent water clarity that makes it feel like a natural aquarium. The sheltered creek mouth is ideal for families and first-timers, while the open beach offers good swimming conditions south of Fingal Head.
Kingscliff Beach (Cudgen Beach)
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Showing last known conditions
Wave Height 0.7 mSwell Period 7.0 sWind Speed 6.9 knPrecipitation 0.0 mmTidal Phase flood
Last evaluated
© DinkumThe spot
Community-maintained
Community contribution: submitted by Daniel
Know before you go
Logged by the community, confirmed by mods
Moderate risk: Rip Currents
Permanent rips occur along certain sections of the beach, especially near the river mouth. Swimmers should stay between the flags.
Moderate risk: Outgoing Tide Current
As Cudgen Creek drains into the ocean, outgoing tides can create a strong current near the creek mouth that may sweep swimmers seaward.
Low risk: River Mouth Current
The outflow from Cudgen Creek can create strong lateral currents where the estuary meets the ocean.
Low risk: Boat Traffic
The boat ramp and seaway area can have vessel traffic entering and exiting Cudgen Creek, particularly on weekends.
Low risk: Rip Currents at Open Beach
The open ocean section of Kingscliff Beach can develop rip currents, particularly during higher swell periods.
Low risk: Bluebottle Stingers
Bluebottle jellyfish (Physalia physalis) can drift onto the beach, especially during north-east winds in the warmer months.
Low risk: Marine Stingers
Warm summer waters may bring occasional box jellyfish or other stingers; check local warnings before entering.
Wildlife Guide
No wildlife notes for this spot yet.
Gallery
1 photo from the community
Getting in
Shore entry
Entry
Located just off the Pacific Highway in Kingscliff, on the south side of Fingal Head. Access via the main beach carpark or from the Cudgen Creek area at the southern end of the beach.
Parking & facilities
Car park available on the south side near Fingal Head and at the Kingscliff beachfront.
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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