Mullaway

Mullaway is a beach and reef break on the NSW Mid North Coast, near Woolgoolga and Coffs Harbour on the Banana Coast. It’s a fairly exposed, open-ocean surf spot that can pick up plenty of swell, with peaks that break over sand and nearby reef depending on conditions.

Surf character

• Wave type: Mainly beach break, with some reef influence
• Best for: Intermediate to advanced surfers when it’s got size or a bit of shape
• Swell direction: Handles east to south-east swells well
• Wind: Offshore westerly winds are best; northerly onshores can make it messy
• Tide: Can work across a range of tides, but quality varies with sand movement and bank setup

What it’s like

Mullaway can offer fun peaks and punchy waves, especially when the banks line up. On smaller days it may be softer and more forgiving, while bigger swells can make it more powerful and rippier. Because it’s less sheltered than some nearby breaks, conditions can change quickly with wind and swell direction.

Hazards

• Strong rips
• Changing sandbanks
• Occasional shorebreak punch
• Crowd levels can vary depending on the day and nearby alternatives

Vibe

It’s generally a more laid-back local beach setup than some of the busier Coffs Coast breaks, with a natural coastal feel and scenic surroundings.