Nestled between the southern Clarence River seawall and the lighthouse headland at Yamba Point, Turners Beach offers a protected yet energetic stretch of sand with clear ocean waters perfect for snorkeling. The beach is sheltered from the worst swell by the Clarence Head and Yamba Point, creating moderate wave conditions that allow reasonable underwater visibility close to shore. Rocky ledges at the southern end harbour small caves and crevices to explore, while the adjacent headland provides stunning views of the coastline. Patrolled in summer, this family-friendly beach combines easy access with solid amenities.
Turners Beach
Fair. Experienced snorkellers only.
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Community contribution: submitted by Daniel
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Moderate risk: Outgoing tide current near seawall
An outgoing tide can create a noticeable current along the southern training wall where the Clarence River meets the beach.
Low risk: Moderate waves and shore break
Waves reaching the beach can produce a moderate shore break, especially around the southern rock ledge.
Low risk: Outgoing tide current near Clarence River mouth
The beach borders the Clarence River entrance; outgoing tides can produce lateral currents along the northern end near the seawall.
Low risk: Rocky ledges at southern end
Sharp rocks and submerged ledges along the southern headland can cause injury if surf is up or visibility is poor.
Low risk: Surf break at the northern end
The northern end near the Clarence River training wall can develop a modest surf break with shore dump, especially on an incoming tide.
Low risk: Unpatrolled outside summer season
The beach is only patrolled by lifeguards during the summer season (typically December to February). Swim between the flags during patrol hours.
Low risk: Moderate surf and shore break
Waves can reach 1-2 m, with a moderate hazard rating of 5/10. Rip currents may form, especially near the break wall.
Low risk: Surfcraft zone
The beach is popular with surfers; swimmers and snorkellers should be aware of board riders in the water.
Low risk: Rocky reef and submerged structures
Rocky platforms exist at the southern end near the break wall; submerged structures can cause injury in rough conditions.
Low risk: Stinging marine life
Bluebottles and occasional jellyfish can drift in with summer north-east swells and currents.
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Getting in
Turners Beach is located at the end of Harbour Street, Yamba NSW 2464. From the Pacific Highway, turn onto Yamba Road and follow it into town, then turn right onto Harbour Street which leads directly to the beachfront.
Plenty of free car parking is available right alongside the beach with level walk to the sand.
Free entry and free parking.
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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.