Always check the conditions when you arrive and swim between the flags.
Tallow Beach
Live conditions and scores
Tallow's a 6.5 kilometre stretch of firm sand backed by dunes, running from Cape Byron Lighthouse down to Broken Head. Building restrictions mean you won't spot houses from the beach, which is why it feels wild and quiet despite being near Byron Bay. The beach splits into three: the left point break at Cosy Corner (north, no dogs), the secluded Dolphins section (middle), and the family-friendly Suffolk Park end (south, dogs welcome).
The main thing to know is rips. They're dangerous and unpredictable along the full beach, so only swim where lifeguards patrol in summer: Cosy Corner, the Suffolk Park section, or Broken Head. You're on your own the rest of the year. Bring your own water. There's none at the beach. Download Emergency+ too (mobile reception is sketchy).
Winter's your best bet for surfing. Cosy Corner gets technical shortboard waves under the lighthouse. The main beach break suits mixed abilities and doesn't get crowded. Summer brings whale migrations, dolphins, and sea eagles. The Suffolk Park end is accessible: flat, firm sand and obstacle-free.
What Makes It Special
- •6.5 km of sand, long stretches where you'll be completely alone. From Cape Byron Lighthouse to Broken Head, the beach feels wild and undeveloped.
- •Head to the Suffolk Park section if you've got a dog. You can take your pup 24/7, and the local crew respects each other's pets, though bag dispensers can be spotty.
- •Winter swells give you your best chance, especially in August. Cosy Corner has a technical left-hand point break for shortboarders, while the main beach works for mixed abilities and stays quieter than Byron's hotspots.
- •You'll spot humpbacks migrating in winter and spring, with dolphins showing regularly. Look out for osprey and white-bellied sea eagles year-round.
- •Strong rips run the full length. Swim only in patrolled zones, which means the Suffolk Park section in summer when lifeguards are on duty.