The Pass
The Pass is Byron Bay's crown jewel—a long, winding right-hand point that embodies the region's laid-back surf culture. The wave is forgiving and fun, wrapping around the headland below the famous lighthouse, occasionally connecting all the way to Clarks Beach on bigger swells. It's a longboarder's paradise and a gathering place for the eclectic Byron community. Sunrise sessions with dolphins and the smell of the rainforest are part of the magic. Don't expect perfection—expect crowds, good vibes, and one of Australia's most beloved wave-riding experiences.
The Pass surf forecast
Model forecast for swell, wind and tide.
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Spot Details
CustomizeCustomize this spotSwell Requirements
- Optimal direction
- ENE (70°)
- Direction range
- 45° - 135°
- Size range
- 0.6m - 2.5m
- Ideal size
- 1.5m - 2m
- Height multiplier
- 0.80×
- Ideal period
- 12s+
Wind Requirements
- Optimal direction
- SSW (200°)
- Offshore range
- 135° - 247°
Tide Requirements
- Optimal tide
- all
- Optimal range
- 0.4m - 1.6m
Water temp
23°C
Wetsuit
Springsuit / 2mm
Difficulty
3/10
Crowd level
10/10
👥 Spring Break (Sep 26 – Oct 11) — expect extra crowds
Frequently Asked Questions
What tide is best at The Pass?
The The Pass profile favors the recorded tide range, ideally between 0.4m and 1.6m on the local tide chart. Compare this preference with the forecast tide and local conditions before choosing a session.
What wind direction is offshore at The Pass?
The The Pass profile uses wind from SSW (200°) as its preferred direction, with an offshore range of 135° to 247°. 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 The Pass?
The The Pass scoring profile favors swell from ENE (45° to 135°), a swell-height range of 0.6m to 2.5m, 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 The Pass?
The main season at The Pass is Feb-May. A secondary window runs Jan, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov, Dec. Works year-round. Autumn best for cleaner conditions.
How do I get to The Pass?
The spot profile lists BNK as a nearby airport. The estimated road transfer is 45 minutes.
What kind of wave is The Pass?
The Pass is a point break, a right-hander. Difficulty is rated 3/10.
Best Season
Peak: Feb-May
Secondary: Jan, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov, Dec
Works year-round. Autumn best for cleaner conditions.
Getting There
👨👩👧👦Family Travel
Nearby Spots
Tallows Beach
🧭 Byron's swell magnet • South-facing exposure • Cape Byron views
Broken Head
🌿 Byron's step-up wave • Hollow reef right • Nature reserve setting
Lennox Head
🔥 Northern NSW's jewel • Kilometer-long dreams • Earn your waves
Ballina South Wall
🌊 Richmond River setup • Consistent lefts • Northern Rivers character
Casuarina Beach
🏖️ Tweed Coast quality • Gold Coast escape • Uncrowded peaks
Fingal Head
🌋 Basalt reef right • Australia's Giants Causeway • Ancient lava break
Plan a trip around The Pass
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