POLICE are appealing for witnesses to a drowning at Bulli on Saturday to come forward and contact them.

About 11.10am, a 48-year-old man was found face down in the water about 150m from the Sandon Point Surf Club.

The man was returned to the beach by unknown bystanders who commenced CPR until lifeguards and paramedics arrived to take over CPR.

The man was taken to Wollongong Hospital where he died on Monday.

Wollongong police would like to speak with the unknown bystanders who assisted the man from the water.

Anyone who witnessed the incident and who has not yet spoke to police should contact Wollongong Police via Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.