Broken Head

Broken Head is a right-hand point break that fires when east-northeast swell combines with southwesterly offshore wind. The wave breaks over sand and rock, producing hollow, fast sections with the potential for extended rides. Wave quality depends heavily on sand migration, and conditions work best on rising and falling tides. The break is most consistent during winter and spring, with April historically offering reliable swell, though summer delivers occasional quality sessions. The wave is steeper and more demanding than most Byron Bay beaches, best suited to experienced surfers, and the unpatrolled break can develop crowded lineups during good conditions.

Broken Head has served as a testing ground for Northern Rivers surfers since at least the late 20th century, most notably hosting the development of several accomplished local surfers. The headland was the site of the Spirit of Surfing gathering in June 2000, a rare two-day convening of surfing elders including George Greenough, Nat Young, Dick Hoole, and Rusty Miller that brought together three decades of collective surfing experience. The Byron Bay Boardriders Club, with support from Nat Young and local conservation groups, established Surfers Code signage here to promote beach stewardship.

The break sits on the southern end of Tallow Beach below a forested headland accessed via a rainforest boardwalk that preserves the surrounding Broken Head Nature Reserve. A beachfront camping area offers direct beach access. The spot's position on Cape Byron's eastern exposure means it catches swell that larger breaks miss, but this same geography and rocky bottom create strong rip currents and occasional shark presence that demand respect and local knowledge.