Bawley Beach is protected by the large southern headland (Bawley Point) which features two popular surf breaks. On the northern protected side of the point there is a jetty and a boat ramp which is great for fishing and paddling. The break near the jetty is called Guillotines and is popular with body boarders. Nearby Bawley Point Reserve has a picnic area, a children's playground and toilets (including an accessible toilet).