For geology enthusiasts and curious locals alike, Turimetta Beach on Sydney’s Northern Beaches has become a hotspot for a remarkable fossil discovery. 

Thanks to the right combination of tide and sand movement, stunning trace fossils—imprints left by ancient creatures that roamed the earth over 220 million years ago—are now visible.

The fossils, discovered a couple of years ago, are frequently obscured by sand, but have recently reappeared. 

The trace fossils belong to an amphibious creature from the Triassic Period, thought to be a Paracyclotosaurus davidi, a species that could grow up to 3 metres, leaving behind intricate track marks as it dragged its body across muddy sediment. 

The creature's imprints, preserved in the rock, reveal detailed trackways that have captivated both amateur and professional geologists.

"You can see dozens of these impressions along the rocks when the conditions are right," says an educator from our Coastal Environment Centre. 

“We often bring groups of children to explore the beach. Once you recognise what you're looking for, the patterns stand out clearly. It’s like stepping back in time, to when giant amphibians roamed these shores."

These fossils provide invaluable insights into the ecosystems of the ancient supercontinent Gondwana. Though Paracyclotosaurus fossils have been found in other regions, these trace fossils offer a rare glimpse into the animal’s behaviour, showcasing the distinct marks of its movements as it transitioned between water and land.

The best time to view these fossils is during low tide, when the sand is cleared enough to expose the rock formations. Local geologists have shared their knowledge through videos, giving beachgoers a guide to finding and understanding these extraordinary imprints.

Whether you're a fossil fanatic or just looking for a unique outing, Turimetta Beach is a must-see destination for those interested in the deep past. 

If you head down to Turimetta Beach to try your luck at seeing the rocks, remember it’s an unpatrolled beach.