IDN28522

Australian Government Bureau of Meteorology
New South Wales

Hazardous Surf Warning for New South Wales

Issued at 6:27 pm EST on Wednesday 20 May 2026
for the period until midnight EST Friday 22 May 2026.

Surf and swell conditions are expected to be hazardous for coastal activities such as rock fishing, boating, and swimming in the following areas.

Friday 22 May

Hazardous Surf Warning for:
Byron Coast, Coffs Coast, Macquarie Coast and Hunter Coast

Safety Advice

NSW Police Force, Marine Area Command advise that:

• People should consider staying out of the water and avoid walking near surf-exposed areas.
• Rock fishers should avoid coastal rock platforms exposed to the ocean and seek a safe location that is sheltered from the surf.
• Boaters planning to cross shallow water and ocean bars should consider changing or delaying their voyage.
• Boaters already on the water should carry the appropriate safety equipment and wear a lifejacket.
• Boaters should remember to log on with their local Marine Rescue radio base, via VHF Radio or the Marine Rescue APP, and consider their safety management plan.

The next warning will be issued by 5:00 am EST Thursday.

Check the Coastal Waters Forecast for information on wind, wave and weather conditions for these areas at http://www.bom.gov.au/nsw/ or on marine radio.