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.
Quick Facts
Rating
4.8 · 73 reviews
Type
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.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit