A 76-year-old man is in a critical condition after being pulled unconscious from the water at Lighthouse Beach in East Ballina.

Emergency services were called to Lighthouse Parade about 10.20am on Friday following reports a swimmer had been dragged from the water by members of the public.

Officers attached to Richmond Police District and NSW Ambulance paramedics began CPR at the scene.

The man was later transported to Lismore Base Hospital in a critical condition.

Members from Ballina Lighthouse and Lismore Surf Life Saving Club were also involved in the response.

In a statement posted on social media, the club said members provided CPR and first aid until NSW Ambulance crews arrived.

The club thanked volunteers involved in the rescue effort and said it was sending best wishes to everyone affected by the incident.