Shelly Beach

Shelly Beach is a 700-meter beach break on a southeast-facing stretch between Black Head and Ballina Head, with sand interrupted by distinctive dark-colored rocks and flat rock platforms at each end overlooking shallow rocky holes. The break works across all tide levels and generates both left and right waves; it is considered a good spot for learners despite having genuine hazards including two pronounced tide rips that run toward either headland and are often connected by a central rip, plus longshore currents, bluebottles, and sharks.

I was unable to find specific historical information about when this beach began being surfed, notable past sessions, major competitions, or particular surfers associated with Shelly Beach. The Shelly Beach Surf Club exists but records of its competition history are not readily available online.

Shelly Beach sits in East Ballina between Lighthouse and Angels beaches, backed by Richmond Hill residential development. Access is straightforward via two central car parks plus entry points at both ends, with four parking lots total, outdoor showers, and nearby toilets and café. The beach is fringed with pandanus trees and connects to a coastal walking and cycling track. It is patrolled by lifeguards only during summer school holidays, making hazard awareness important outside that window. Dogs are not allowed on the beach.