Broken Head
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.
Broken Head surf forecast
Model forecast for swell, wind and tide.
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Spot Details
CustomizeCustomize this spotSwell Requirements
- Optimal direction
- E (80°)
- Direction range
- 45° - 130°
- Size range
- 0.5m - 2.8m
- Ideal size
- 1.5m - 2.2m
- Height multiplier
- 0.97×
- Ideal period
- 12s+
Wind Requirements
- Optimal direction
- WSW (240°)
- Offshore range
- 200° - 280°
Tide Requirements
- Optimal tide
- all
Water temp
22°C
Wetsuit
Springsuit / 2mm
Difficulty
6/10
Crowd level
5/10
👥 Spring Break (Sep 26 – Oct 11) — expect extra crowds
Access: Turn off Pacific Highway south of Byron Bay. Short walk to beach.
Frequently Asked Questions
What tide is best at Broken Head?
The Broken Head profile does not specify a preferred tide stage. That does not mean tide has no effect: check local conditions alongside swell and wind.
What wind direction is offshore at Broken Head?
The Broken Head profile uses wind from WSW (240°) as its preferred direction, with an offshore range of 200° to 280°. Wind speed matters too: light winds outside that range can still produce surfable conditions, while strong offshore winds can make takeoffs difficult.
What swell size and direction work best at Broken Head?
The Broken Head scoring profile favors swell from E (45° to 130°), a swell-height range of 0.5m to 2.8m, and a reference period of 12s. These are model inputs, not guaranteed breaking-wave heights or a promise that the surf will suit every ability.
When is the best time of year to surf Broken Head?
The main season at Broken Head is Mar-Aug. A secondary window runs Feb, Sep. Autumn-winter E swells. More advanced alternative to The Pass.
How do I get to Broken Head?
The spot profile lists BNK as a nearby airport. The estimated road transfer is 15 minutes. Turn off Pacific Highway south of Byron Bay. Short walk to beach.
What kind of wave is Broken Head?
Broken Head is a point break, a right-hander. Difficulty is rated 6/10.
Best Season
Peak: Mar-Aug
Secondary: Feb, Sep
Autumn-winter E swells. More advanced alternative to The Pass.
Getting There
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