Clarkes Beach Byron Bay
Sweeping sandy beach known for its calm waters, iconic surf break at The Pass, and stunning sunset views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Calm waters, fewer crowds
Clarkes Beach Byron Bay
Best Time
Calm waters, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Sweeping sandy beach known for its calm waters, iconic surf break at The Pass, and stunning sunset views.
"Probably the best beach we've seen in Australia. Photos don't do it justice."
🐦 Bird Alert!
Watch your belongings on the sand; local birds have sharp claws and will rummage through your things.
🚗 Parking Strategy
Metered parking at The Pass is available, but can fill up. Consider walking from Main Beach.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Pass Surf Break
Eastern end of Clarkes Beach
Iconic surf spot with long, peeling right-hand point breaks, ideal for surfers of all levels.
Sunset Views
Clarkes Beach shoreline
Experience breathtaking sunsets painting the sky with vibrant colors over the ocean.
Whale Watching Opportunities
Offshore from Clarkes Beach
Witness majestic humpback whales migrating along the coast during their annual journey.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for the Best Experience
Navigating Byron Bay's Coastal Charm
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🐦 Bird Alert!
Watch your belongings on the sand; local birds have sharp claws and will rummage through your things.
🚗 Parking Strategy
Metered parking at The Pass is available, but can fill up. Consider walking from Main Beach.
🌊 Tide Exploration
The landscape changes dramatically at high and low tide, revealing new areas to explore.
🏄♀️ Surf's Up at The Pass
Enjoy the famous right-hand point break, suitable for various surfing skill levels.
Tips
from all over the internet
🐦 Bird Alert!
Watch your belongings on the sand; local birds have sharp claws and will rummage through your things.
🚗 Parking Strategy
Metered parking at The Pass is available, but can fill up. Consider walking from Main Beach.
🌊 Tide Exploration
The landscape changes dramatically at high and low tide, revealing new areas to explore.
🏄♀️ Surf's Up at The Pass
Enjoy the famous right-hand point break, suitable for various surfing skill levels.
📸 Capture the Magic
The beach offers stunning photo opportunities, especially during sunrise and sunset. 
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Clarkes Beach is widely praised for its stunning beauty, calm waters perfect for swimming, and the iconic surf break at The Pass. Visitors love the breathtaking sunset views and the opportunity for whale watching. While parking can be a challenge, the overall experience is considered timeless and a beautiful part of the world.
"Clarkes Beach is amazing! The water is calm and clear, perfect for swimming or paddleboarding. The views are stunning, especially at sunset. It’s close to cafes and has a great vibe. A must-visit when in Byron Bay!"
Flying with Alvaro & Silvia
"Clarkes Beach, Byron Bay
The beach in the front of Byron town is Main Beach, east of that is Byron Beach (Beach Byron Bay is a must visit for fine-dining, I’ll write a separate post), then further east is Clarkes Beach. We spent time at each location, then walked along the beautiful coastline.
To get to Clarkes beach, park in The Pass Parking (it’s metered), then walk down to the beach, it is beautiful. If you stay long enough you will see it at high tide and when the tide goes out, it’s a totally different landscape with even more to explore. In the parking area is The Pass Cafe.
#ClarkesBeach
#ByronBeach
#ByronBay"
Pandy Dimitrios
"Probably the best beach we've seen in Australia. Went during winter so it wasn't so busy. Photos don't do it justice."
Greg Travassos
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can park at The Pass parking area (metered) and walk down to the beach. Alternatively, enjoy a scenic stroll along the coastline from Main Beach.
Parking is available at The Pass, which is metered. It can get busy, especially during peak times.
Yes, it's a pleasant walk from Main Beach or The Pass, offering beautiful coastal views along the way.
While direct public transport to the beach itself is limited, local buses service Byron Bay town, from where you can walk or take a short taxi/rideshare.
The Pass is located at the eastern end of Clarkes Beach and is easily accessible by walking along the sand.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Clarkes Beach is a public beach and does not have an entry fee.
Clarkes Beach is accessible at all hours, though facilities like cafes may have specific operating times.
No booking is required to visit Clarkes Beach itself. However, if you plan to dine at Beach Byron Bay, reservations are recommended.
General beach rules apply. Be mindful of wildlife, and check local advisories for any temporary closures due to weather events like cyclones.
No, parking at The Pass is metered.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Enjoy swimming, paddleboarding, surfing at The Pass, whale watching (seasonal), relaxing on the sand, and taking in the sunset views.
Yes, the water is often calm and clear, making it suitable for swimming and paddleboarding.
The eastern end, known as The Pass, is a popular surf spot with a great point break.
Humpback whale migration typically occurs from May to November along the Australian east coast.
Nearby amenities include cafes at The Pass and dining options like Beach Byron Bay overlooking the beach.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, Beach Byron Bay is a renowned waterfront restaurant overlooking Clarkes Beach, offering fine dining.
The Pass Cafe is located in the parking area at The Pass, offering refreshments.
Beach Byron Bay specializes in fresh seafood and offers unparalleled views.
While there are no designated picnic areas directly on the beach, you can find spots along the foreshore or in nearby parks.
Yes, The Pass Cafe offers more casual options, and Byron town has numerous cafes and eateries a short walk away.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunrise and sunset offer magical light for photography. The changing tides also create unique photographic opportunities. +1
The entire stretch of beach, The Pass surf break, and the coastline leading to the lighthouse are highly photogenic.
Drone usage is generally permitted in Byron Bay, but always check current local regulations and restrictions before flying.
The iconic Cape Byron Lighthouse is visible from Clarkes Beach and makes for a great photo subject.
Expect stunning ocean vistas, surfers catching waves, beautiful sunsets, and potentially wildlife like whales.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While direct amenities on the beach are limited, the nearby Pass Cafe offers refreshments, and Byron town is a short walk or drive away for more extensive dining and facilities. Keep an eye on the little ones, as the local birdlife can be quite curious about unattended snacks!
🏄♂️ Surfers and Water Sports Enthusiasts
Whether you're a seasoned pro or a beginner looking for lessons, the consistent waves here are a major draw. Paddleboarding is also a popular activity due to the generally calmer conditions. Beyond surfing, the clear waters make it ideal for snorkeling or simply enjoying a refreshing swim. The beach's beauty and the vibrant surf culture create an energetic atmosphere for water sports lovers.
📸 Photographers and Sunset Chasers
+1 The sweeping coastline, the iconic Cape Byron Lighthouse in the distance, and the surfers at The Pass all provide endless photographic opportunities. Don't miss the chance to capture the dramatic changes in scenery as the tide ebbs and flows, revealing new textures and formations on the sand.
+1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Surfing at The Pass
For those new to surfing, numerous surf schools operate in Byron Bay and offer lessons at various beaches, including those near Clarkes Beach. It's advisable to check conditions and consider lessons if you're a beginner. The energy at The Pass is palpable, with surfers often gathering to share the waves and the stoke.
Beyond the surfing itself, Fisherman's Lookout, situated above The Pass, offers panoramic views of the coastline, making it a fantastic spot to watch the surfers and soak in the breathtaking scenery. This vantage point is also excellent for photography, capturing the dynamic interplay of surfers and the ocean.
Whale Watching Season
While you can spot whales from Clarkes Beach itself, booking a dedicated whale watching tour can offer a more immersive experience. These tours often take you further offshore, increasing your chances of seeing whales up close and learning more about their behavior from expert guides. The sheer size and grace of these animals are awe-inspiring, and seeing them in their natural habitat is a truly unforgettable moment.
It's worth noting that whale sightings are dependent on migration patterns and ocean conditions. Even if you don't see whales, the journey along the coast to find them provides stunning ocean views and a chance to appreciate the natural beauty of the region.
Dining with a View at Beach Byron Bay
+1Co-owner Belinda Kirkwood highlights the restaurant's 18-year history and their dedication to providing a welcoming atmosphere, making guests feel like they are being welcomed into their home. The combination of delicious cuisine and the stunning backdrop of Clarkes Beach creates a memorable dining experience that many visitors rave about.
Reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak seasons and weekends, to secure a table at this popular establishment. Whether you're enjoying a leisurely lunch or a romantic sunset dinner, Beach Byron Bay promises a culinary journey complemented by the breathtaking coastal scenery.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit