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.
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SLSA provides this information as a guide only. Surf conditions are variable and therefore this information should not be relied upon as a substitute for observation of local conditions and an understanding of your abilities in the surf. SLSA reminds you to always swim between the red and yellow flags and never swim at unpatrolled beaches. SLSA takes all care and responsibility for any translation but it cannot guarantee that all translations will be accurate.
Length: 7km
General Hazard Rating: 6/10 (Moderately hazardous)
Beach Key: vic074