Search called off after bodyboard mix-up

A large-scale search for a bodyboarder feared missing on the NSW north coast has been called off, after the man contacted police.

The search was launched about 3pm on Tuesday after a boogie board was found washed up on the rocks at Ballina North.

A man was seen entering the water moments earlier but no-one saw him leave, sparking fears he had gone missing.

The board's owner contacted police on Wednesday morning after seeing the appeal in the media.

"He told officers his granddaughter had lost the board in the surf, but was safe and well," NSW Police said in a statement.