Bears Beach

Bears Beach is a small, scenic surf and beach spot on the Far South Coast of New South Wales, Australia, near Burrill Lake/Ulladulla. It’s more of a quiet local beach than a famous surf destination, with a relaxed, natural feel and typically far fewer crowds than the better-known breaks up the coast.

Surf / wave character

• Beach break: Waves usually break over sand, so the shape can change with tides, swell, and sand movement.
• Best in certain swell conditions: It generally works best when there’s enough east to south-east swell, with local winds and tides making a big difference.
• Can be inconsistent: Like many small beaches, it may be a bit hit-or-miss depending on conditions, but can offer fun peaks when it’s on.
• Good for casual sessions: More suited to surfers looking for a low-key wave rather than a heavy, highly powerful setup.

Beach / setting

• Compact and peaceful: A sheltered-feeling little beach with a local, laid-back vibe.
• Scenic coastal environment: Expect sandstone, coastal scrub, and the classic South Coast NSW look.
• Good for a quiet visit: Often better for a swim, walk, or relaxed surf than a high-energy surf mission.

Things to know

• Check conditions before going: As with most NSW beach breaks, wind direction, swell angle, and tide can make a huge difference.
• Watch for rips: Even smaller beaches can have strong currents on bigger days.
• Local knowledge helps: Since it’s not a major surf magnet, condition reports and local advice are useful.