Broken Head is Byron Bay's step-up wave—a right-hand point/reef break south of town that delivers hollower, more challenging conditions than the mellow Pass. The wave breaks over rock and reef with barrel sections that reward committed surfers. The setting is stunning, with the headland surrounded by nature reserve and eucalyptus forest. While it's only a short drive from Byron, the vibe is more serious and the locals less tolerant of drop-ins. When The Pass is too crowded or too small, Broken Head offers a genuine step up in both quality and consequences.
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Water temp
22°C
Wetsuit
Springsuit / 2mm
Difficulty
6/10
Crowd level
5/10
Access: Turn off Pacific Highway south of Byron Bay. Short walk to beach.
Peak: Mar-Aug
Secondary: Feb, Sep
Autumn-winter E swells. More advanced alternative to The Pass.
🧭 Byron's swell magnet • South-facing exposure • Cape Byron views
✨ Byron's soul • Longboard paradise • Sunrise with dolphins
🔥 Northern NSW's jewel • Kilometer-long dreams • Earn your waves
🌊 Richmond River setup • Consistent lefts • Northern Rivers character
🏖️ Tweed Coast quality • Gold Coast escape • Uncrowded peaks
🏘️ Northern Rivers sleeper • Uncrowded beach breaks • Drive-past gem