Tallows Beach
Tallows Beach is Byron Bay's swell magnet—the long, south-facing stretch of beach between Cape Byron and Broken Head that catches SE-E swell when the north-facing breaks like The Pass go flat. The beach offers powerful, punchy peaks along its 3km length, with the best banks typically forming near the Cape Byron end. Less crowded than Byron's other breaks due to the walk required to reach it, Tallows delivers a rawer, more isolated surf experience within sight of Australia's most easterly point.
Tallows Beach surf forecast
Model forecast for swell, wind and tide.
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Spot Details
CustomizeCustomize this spotSwell Requirements
- Optimal direction
- E (83°)
- Direction range
- 61° - 143°
- Size range
- 0.5m - 2.2m
- Ideal size
- 1.3m - 1.8m
- Height multiplier
- 0.97×
- Ideal period
- 11s+
Wind Requirements
- Optimal direction
- WSW (240°)
- Offshore range
- 284° - 351°
Tide Requirements
- Optimal tide
- mid
Water temp
22°C
Wetsuit
Springsuit / 2mm
Difficulty
5/10
Crowd level
3/10
👥 Spring Break (Sep 26 – Oct 11) — expect extra crowds
Access: Beach access from Tallows Beach Road or walk from Cape Byron.
Frequently Asked Questions
What tide is best at Tallows Beach?
The Tallows Beach profile favors mid tide. Compare this preference with the forecast tide and local conditions before choosing a session.
What wind direction is offshore at Tallows Beach?
The Tallows Beach profile uses wind from WSW (240°) as its preferred direction, with an offshore range of 284° to 351°. 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 Tallows Beach?
The Tallows Beach scoring profile favors swell from E (61° to 143°), a swell-height range of 0.5m to 2.2m, and a reference period of 11s. 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 Tallows Beach?
The main season at Tallows Beach is Jan-Dec. Year-round. Swell magnet when other Byron spots are flat.
How do I get to Tallows Beach?
The spot profile lists BNK as a nearby airport. The estimated road transfer is 15 minutes. Beach access from Tallows Beach Road or walk from Cape Byron.
What kind of wave is Tallows Beach?
Tallows Beach is a beach break, a peak with lefts and rights. Difficulty is rated 5/10.
Best Season
Peak: Jan-Dec
Year-round. Swell magnet when other Byron spots are flat.
Getting There
Nearby Spots
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Fingal Head
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