Point Ricardo - Marlo

Beach

West of Point Ricardo, the beach can extend for anywhere between 2 and 7 km; the actual length at any time depending on the location of the Snowy River mouth. When the river flows straight out to sea at Marlo, the beach is 7 km long. However, as... Read more

West of Point Ricardo, the beach can extend for anywhere between 2 and 7 km; the actual length at any time depending on the location of the Snowy River mouth. When the river flows straight out to sea at Marlo, the beach is 7 km long. However, as the south-westerly waves push the entrance eastward, the beach shortens; until a large flood occurs, that will usually take the entrance back to Marlo.The Marlo - Cape Conran road parallels the beach, but access can only be obtained along the western few kilometres; east of the water-filled French Narrows. The road runs along the top of 40 m high bluffs, with dune ramps providing access to the beach below.The beach faces due south and receives waves averaging 1.5 m; which combine with the medium sand to build a relatively steep beach face. This is fronted by a narrow continuous bar on which waves break heavily. A deep trough separates this bar from the outer bar. Towards the river mouth, tidal currents and shoals produce strong variable currents and very hazardous conditions for bathers and boaters.

Swimming

Not recommended on this isolated and hazardous beach. Even during low waves the water is deep close in and currents can flow along the trough.

Surfing

Beach breaks on the outer bar are best with low to moderate swell and northerly winds. Nearer the Snowy River mouth the river bars can produce some long rights.

Fishing

The deep longshore trough can be fished from the beach, while the River mouth provides additional attractions.

General

A very dynamic beach and River mouth which can be viewed from the road. Usually unsuitable for swimming.