Search called off for Irish tourist swept away in dangerous surf off Byron Bay

The search for an Irish tourist swept away in rough conditions off Byron Bay has been called off tonight.

Powerful winds and a strong swell made the conditions “dangerous” along the coast, according to Weatherzone.

The Irish tourist is believed to have braved the surf with friends today despite warnings.

His friend, American man Levi Fahrenholtz, managed to climb onto rocks to get out of the water.

He told 9NEWS about the moment he lost his mate in the surf.

“Before we knew it we were wrapped around the corner,” Mr Fahrenholtz said.

“I paddled out and got stuck in the impact zone area and then I just lost track of him I couldn’t see him anymore.”