Overview
The Pass is Byron Bay's marquee break, a long right-hand point tucked into a balmy, pandanus-lined bay. Incoming swell arrives as orderly righthanders that march in parallel lines toward the sand. The outer take-off sucks strongly off a rocky outcrop and races through a fast, vertical section before feeding into the next entry point. From there the ride can stretch up to 500m down the sandy point toward Clarks Beach, making it a natural spot for longboarding or working on your trim and cutbacks.
When It Works
The Pass welcomes all easterly swells and draws from northeast through east-southeast to south (NE-ESE-S), with east (E) swell the best match. It really comes alive on E-NE pulses, when the walls run longer and hold together; big south to southeast swells can still break with enough wrap, though the walls tend to break up and often fizzle out. Breaking over sand, it works from 0.3 m / 1 ft to 3 m / 10 ft, and you can expect moderately consistent conditions.
Wind and Tide
Look for southeast (SE) offshore wind, and the point stays fairly protected anywhere from east-southeast round to southwest. It can work through low, mid, and high tide, with mid tide the pick and a rising tide generally the better call.
Local Tips
On mellow days The Pass is friendly enough for beginners, though you'll likely catch more waves over at Wategoes. Expect a very busy lineup when it's on, with locals turning out in force on the quality days. The sweep down the point is strong, so most surfers walk back and pick their moment to launch behind or through the rocks at the pass. Drop-ins and hassling come with the crowd and are best left to more confident surfers, and keep an eye out for the dolphin pods the spot is known for.
Access
There's a car park with free parking, along with paid and roadside options. Facilities include restrooms, showers, camping, a surf school, and a surf shop.
