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Scotts Head Main Beach

BeginnerMAYBE
MAYBE

Fair. Experienced snorkellers only.

Showing last known conditions

Wave Height 0.0 mSwell Period 0.0 sWind Speed 4.4 knPrecipitation 0.0 mmTidal Phase flood

Last evaluated

Primary photo of Scotts Head Main Beach © Conquimbo

The spot

Community-maintained

Community contribution: submitted by Daniel

Scotts Head Main Beach is a sweeping, family-friendly stretch of sand on the NSW North Coast, just south of Nambucca Heads. Sheltered from the open ocean by the prominent Scotts Headland, the beach offers calm, clear waters that are ideal for snorkelling around the rocky reef edges at the southern end. The headland provides a natural breakwater, creating a protected cove-like environment where snorkellers can explore rocky gutters and shallow seagrass beds. Dolphins, turtles and rays are regular visitors, and the beach's long expanses of sand make it a peaceful escape year-round.

Know before you go

Logged by the community, confirmed by mods

  • Moderate risk: Rip currents

    Strong rip currents can develop, especially near the river mouth at the northern end of the beach.

  • Low risk: Rip currents at northern end

    Rip currents can develop along the less-protected northern stretch of Main Beach, particularly during larger swell events.

  • Low risk: Rocky reef edges

    Sharp rocks and barnacles at the southern end near the headland should be avoided when entering and exiting the water.

  • Low risk: Shark presence

    Sharks have been sighted in the area; drone surveillance is used during patrol hours. Swim between the flags for safety.

  • Low risk: Stingrays

    Stingrays are occasionally seen in the shallows near the river mouth and rocky areas.

  • Low risk: Strong southerly swells

    Southerly swells can create strong shore dumps and rips, especially on the main beach away from the headland.

  • Low risk: Bluebottle jellyfish

    Bluebottle jellyfish can be present on the NSW coast during warmer months, particularly after northerly winds.

  • Low risk: Rocky reef near headland

    A large reef lies just east of the headland — sharp rocks may be exposed at low tide and can cause cuts if stepped on.

  • Low risk: Surf breaks and currents

    Variety of surf breaks can create shifting rip currents, especially near the point. Swimmers and snorkellers should stay within patrolled areas.

Wildlife Guide

No wildlife notes for this spot yet.

7 photos from the community

Getting in

Shore entry
Entry

Scotts Head Main Beach is located on Main Street, Scotts Head, NSW, approximately 30 km south of Coffs Harbour and 10 km south of Nambucca Heads. Turn east off the Pacific Highway at Macksville and follow the signs to Scotts Head.

Parking & facilities

Street parking is available along Main Street and nearby side streets, directly adjacent to the beach.

toiletsparking

No fees for beach access or parking.

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Gallery ┬╖ 7 photos

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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