Tucked beside Flagstaff Beach just south of Fingal Head on the NSW North Coast, Marlows Beach is a low-key gem with clean surf, rocky outcrops, and a raw, untouched feel. The bay is home to the shipwrecks of the MV Malabar and SS Goolgwai, making it a fascinating snorkel destination. Consistent waves roll in over sandy-bottom inshore waters, while rocky headlands shelter shallow reef pockets. Surrounded by natural bush and rugged coastline, it offers epic views back toward Fingal Headland and a peaceful alternative to busier nearby beaches.
Marlows Beach
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Showing last known conditions
Wave Height 0.9 mSwell Period 6.9 sWind Speed 5.5 knPrecipitation 0.0 mmTidal Phase flood
Last evaluated
The spot
Community-maintained
Community contribution: submitted by Daniel
Know before you go
Logged by the community, confirmed by mods
Moderate risk: Submerged shipwreck debris
The area contains submerged wrecks (MV Malabar and SS Goolgwai) with metal debris that can be hazardous — avoid touching or entering wreck structures.
Low risk: Rip currents
Rip currents can form along the beach, particularly near the rocky headland and river entrance. Swim between the flags when patrols are active.
Low risk: Consistent surf swells
Swells and waves can be consistent, creating challenging conditions for inexperienced snorkelers, especially on windier days.
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Getting in
Shore entry
Entry
Just south of Fingal Head, accessible via Fingal Head Road. Turn off the Pacific Highway at the Tweed Heads / Fingal Head exit and follow signs to Fingal Head. Marlows Beach is tucked beside Flagstaff Beach, a short walk from the main Fingal Beach carpark near the surf lifesaving club.
Parking & facilities
Carpark available near Fingal Rovers Surf Life Saving Club; can fill up quickly on weekends and holidays.
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Free public beach access
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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