Redhead Beach is at the northern end of a seven mile stretch of coastline, and is known for its stunning cliffs, rocky outcrops and shark tower. Located south of Dudley Beach and the Awabakal Nature Reserve and to the north of Blacksmiths beach. The most photographic areas are at the northern end in front of the Surf Life Saving Club and up on the 80 meter high Redhead Bluff. Redhead Beach is a popular location for photographers for Sunrise, Sunset and Lightning storms.
Special Photographic Features or Notes
The Shark Tower sits on top of a large crop of exposed rocks making it one of the main feature points to photograph at Redhead, along with the group of rocks just in front of the tower.
Due to the position of Redhead Beach with respect to it’s 80 meter high northern point the sun can only be seen rising above the horizon between September to mid April, So for sunrise; most photographers prefer to shoot this location during the Spring and Summer months where more colour can be seen and isn’t hidden behind the point.
Redhead Beach runs in a NE-SW direction – so during the summer months the sun sets almost over the water providing photographers with amazing colour on the horizon.
There is also a lookout up on Redhead Bluff that offers amazing views of the beach, shark tower and surf club all the way down to Blacksmiths beach. Great for sunsets!
Night Photography
The Shark Tower is lit up at night so it’s not a location I would recommend for star trails but Redhead has become a favourite place to shoot lightning as it provides an identifiable landmark and also provides shelter at the surf club whilst shooting.
Special Equipment
No special equipment is required. However you will benefit from using soft grad ND filters as the Shark Tower and rocky outcrop can be above the horizon.
Best Time of The Day
Both sunrises and sunsets are great from on the beach. Up on the Bluff provides amazing views and you can capture some great days shots and amazing sunsets.
Tidal Information
Redhead beach can be photographed at any tide. However a low tide will allow you to photograph the rocky outcrop which is located in front of the Shark Tower.
On a half tide you will have more chance to capture water flowing around the rocks.
Getting there
Take Beach Rd down to the Redhead Beach Surf Life Saving Club car park
1. Shark Tower and Rocky Outcrop
2. Carpark at SLSC
3 Redhead Bluff Lookout
4. Redhead Bluff parking on Iluka Rd
