Beach & Entry
Surface, sand, water entry and bottom
Surface Type
Main surface type
sand
Sand Color
Main sand colour
golden
Water Entry
How steep the drop-off is
gentle
Bottom Type
Main bottom type
sand
Water Shoes
Whether special footwear is needed
not needed
Beach Length
Beach length in metres
860 m
Frequently asked questions
Emerald Beach: what is the water like at this beach?
At this beach, water colour — turquoise, clarity high, average temperature +21.0°C, warms up to +25.0°C in the warmest season. Check the exact temperature by month in the chart section.
Emerald Beach: what are the waves like and is it safe to swim?
Waves at this beach are — moderate. Average wave height — 0.8 m.
Emerald Beach: what is the water entry and bottom like?
Water entry is — gentle. Bottom — sand. Special shoes are not required — the water entry is comfortable. The gentle slope is safe for children and inexperienced swimmers.
Emerald Beach: what kind of sand and surface does the beach have?
Beach surface — sand. Sand colour — golden. Texture — fine. Beach length — 860 metres.
Emerald Beach: when is the swimming season?
The swimming season starts in December, January, February. It ends in March. The best month for a holiday is January. This is when the water is warmest and the weather is most comfortable.
Emerald Beach: is it safe to swim?
Water quality is rated as excellent. Rip currents are likely — swim only in designated areas. Jellyfish risk — low. Shark risk — low. Always watch for warning signs and follow lifeguards instructions.
Emerald Beach: what infrastructure is available on the beach?
The beach offers: showers, toilets, changing rooms, parking, kids playground, sports ground. All amenities are listed in the "Infrastructure" section above.
Emerald Beach: are there lifeguards and a first aid station?
Lifeguards are on duty on the beach — an important safety factor. A first aid station is available.
Emerald Beach: where can I eat near the beach?
Popular places nearby: Emerald Beach Cafe. Cuisines available: Cafe. See the "Infrastructure" section for details.
Emerald Beach: what should I bring to the beach?
We recommend bringing: SPF50+ cream, Water, Towel, Swimsuit, Flip-flops, Cash.
Emerald Beach: when is the best time to swim?
The best time for swimming is from December to March. In the morning the water is calmer, and high tide is better for surfing.
Emerald Beach: what are the rules and restrictions on the beach?
Walking dogs on the southern part of the beach is prohibited.
Emerald Beach: what activities are available?
The beach offers: surfing. See the "Activities" section above for details.
Emerald Beach: who is this beach best for?
Ideal for surfers and families with older children. Not suitable for families with small children due to strong waves.
Emerald Beach: what makes this beach unique?
Emerald Beach is surrounded by Coffs Coast Regional Park and known as one of the best surfing spots on the coast, with a left-hand reef break.
Emerald Beach: what are the pros and cons of the beach?
Pros: Soft sand, Crystal-clear water, Excellent surfing, National park nearby, Children-s playground, Barbecues. Cons: Strong waves for children, Little natural shade, No sunbeds or umbrellas, Moderately crowded.
Emerald Beach: what is near the beach?
Nearby you can visit: Look-at-me-now Headland, Coffs Coast Regional Park. Detailed descriptions in the "Nearby" section above.
Emerald Beach: how do I get to the city of Coffs Harbour?
The beach is located near the city of Coffs Harbour. Full information about the city — hotels, restaurants, attractions, transport — is available on the
city page for Coffs Harbour.