Top Byron Bay Nature Walks

Spotting dolphins from land is exciting, but kayaking alongside them is a truly special experience. From Byron Bay, journey along the waters of Cape Byron Marine Park as your local guide leads you to locations that maximize your chances of seeing bottlenose dolphins in their natural habitat—you might even catch a glimpse of whales and sea turtles, too.

There’s more to Byron Bay than its surf beaches and markets. With this tour, escape the typical tourist trail and discover little-known spots that locals love. Cool off with a swim and spot turtles at Killen Falls, then admire views of Lake Ainsworth and discover the unique healing properties of the Tea Tree lake. Finally, enjoy a guided bushwalk through Broken Head Nature Reserve and seek out hidden viewpoints, beaches, and cliff jumping sites.

Visit three different habitats (a eucalypt forest, rainforest, and grassland) to observe Australian wildlife in its natural habitat. Spot koalas, kangaroos, wallabies, flying foxes, birds, and more with the help of a guide. Depending on conditions, you may also see other mammals such as pademelons. Plus, the tour Includes a locally sourced picnic lunch.

Learn to surf at Byron Bay on the world famous breaks. You may go to Byron, Lennox, or the Ballina area, depending on the conditions. Groups are small so you’ll receive lots of attention, feedback, and a guarantee that you’ll feel safe in the water. Boards used are soft, so you’ll catch lots of waves and have a great time in the process, which lasts about a half day.

Paddle your way to Australia’s easternmost point on this 3-hour sea kayaking adventure from Byron Bay, including hotel pick-up. After learning to steer your tandem kayak, set out from Clarkes Beach and enjoy waterside views of landmarks like the Byron Bay lighthouse, the Julian Rocks, Wategos millionaire row and Cape Byron. Keep a look out for dolphins, sea turtles and whales as you cruise around the bay, then cool off with a swim before heading back to shore.

Once an old grazing land, thankfully the Anglican church in partnership with Bangalow Land and Rivercare Group have regenerated this area with hundreds of native plant species that are really important to Bundjalung people. During the tour, Delta points out a variety of these edible bush tucker plants, as well as plants used for natural medicine, jewellery, fibre, tools and weapons. She speaks about local indigenous history and shares traditional stories that have been passed down to her from her ancestors. There are opportunities to learn some Bundjalung language and we are sometimes lucky to see Binging the river turtle or Junbung the platypus.

Experience the Brunswick River the way nature intended—with only the noise of paddles gently sweeping the water—on a stand-up paddleboard tour in a small group. After a short introduction to the art of SUP, head out into the wilds with a guide to point out wildlife and capture digital photos, then return for water and homemade snacks.

Sit back, relax, and take in amazing natural scenes on this cruise on the Richmond River around Ballina Island. Just 30 minutes outside of Byron Bay (transfer not included), journey through impressive mangrove forests and see a diverse array of flora and fauna, including the chance to spot dolphins. A cold beverage and tasty snacks are also provided on board.

Sample some of Byron Bay's finest beer and liquor without worrying about who is going to drive on this small-group brewery and distillery day tour. Either visit two breweries and two distilleries or three breweries and one distillery, depending on availability. You'll sample drinks at each, amounting to 15-20 drinks over the course of the day. A great tour to enjoy with your partner or friends.

Hone your surf skills with this half-day lesson in beautiful Byron Bay. Head to a beach that suits your skill level, throw on your gear—included in the lesson price—and learn basic techniques from an expert coach. Then, continue your lesson in a small-group setting with a teacher-to-student ratio of 1 to 7. If you don’t stand up by the end of the session, receive a free class.