Shark Bay is a sheltered, crescent-shaped beach tucked inside Bundjalung National Park, just 5 minutes' drive south of Iluka on the NSW north coast. Protected from ocean swells by a rocky headland and a fringing reef, its calm, sparkling waters make it an idyllic snorkeling spot. The beach is backed by a fringe of littoral rainforest, with picnic tables and grassy areas shaded by trees. Snorkelers explore the rocky reef edges and ledges close to shore, where wobbegong sharks rest under seaweed-covered rocks, and schools of bream, luderick, and other reef fish abound. When nor'easters chop up other beaches, Shark Bay's sheltered side often stays glassy — perfect for a peaceful paddle.
Shark Bay (Iluka)
BeginnerMAYBE
MAYBE
Fair. Experienced snorkellers only.
Showing last known conditions
Wave Height 0.9 mSwell Period 6.0 sWind Speed 15 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: No lifeguard patrol
Shark Bay is unpatrolled. The closest patrolled beach is Iluka Bluff, about 5 mins drive away, and only during peak holiday season. Swim with caution.
Moderate risk: Rip currents
Strong rip currents can occur, particularly near the headland and reef edges. The safest swimming is inside the protected bay.
Low risk: Rocky reef hazards
Submerged rocky reef and ledges near the shore can be sharp. Snorkelers should wear reef shoes or fins and avoid walking on the reef.
Low risk: Marine stingers
Bluebottles and occasional jellyfish may be present in warmer months (Nov–Mar).
Wildlife Guide
No wildlife notes for this spot yet.
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Getting in
Shore entry
Entry
From Iluka, drive south on Iluka Road for about 5 minutes, then turn onto Shark Bay Road. Follow the road to the small parking bays on Shark Bay Road, 20 m from the picnic area. The picnic area is in the Iluka section of Bundjalung National Park.
Parking & facilities
Small parking bays available on Shark Bay Road, about 20 m from the picnic area. Limited spaces.
toiletspicnic_tablesparking
$8 per vehicle per day (Bundjalung National Park 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