Search paused for man missing at NSW beach

After a day of searching for a missing swimmer off a NSW beach, rescue teams have paused their efforts and will continue looking for the man in the morning.

A search has been suspended overnight for a swimmer missing off Lighthouse Beach in northern NSW.

Witnesses told police a 49-year-old man entered the water at Ballina and has not been seen since 10.15am on Saturday.

Marine Rescue, Marine Area Command, NSW Ambulance, SES and the Westpac Life Saver Rescue Helicopter spent the day searching for the man.

The search was suspended on Saturday evening and will resume on Sunday morning, police said.