The search has resumed for a man who is feared missing after he went swimming at Tallow Beach in Byron Bay.

The man, who is described as being in his 50s, of caucasian appearance and wearing light-coloured board shorts, was last seen in distress before failing to resurface at about 3pm on Saturday.

A large-scale operation was immediately deployed involving officers from the Tweed/Byron Police District, Surf Lifesavers, Marine Rescue NSW and a Queensland rescue helicopter.

Rescuers were unable to locate the man overnight, and search efforts began again at about 8am on Sunday.

The unpatrolled beach, which is about 3.2km away from Byron Bay‘s town centre is a popular tourist destination.

Marine Rescue NSW Inspector Rodney Page said rescue vessel Brunswick 30 was deployed on Saturday afternoon following a request from NSW Police Marine Area Command.

“The Marine Rescue NSW crew is conducting a parallel line search off the coast of Byron Bay. They are searching south from Cosy Corner, Tallows Beach.” Inspected Page said.

“Volunteer crews on the vessels will conduct a parallel line search from Cape Byron in the north to Ballina in the south.

“Rescue watercraft (RWCs) Brunswick 11 and Brunswick 12 will search alongside Surf Life Saving skis in all surf zones and close to shore areas in the region.”

Police have urged anyone with information to contact Byron Bay police or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.