Things to do in  Byron Bay

Perched high on the sea cliffs at the edge of Cape Byron—Australia’s easternmost point—the Cape Byron Lighthouse has been guarding the rocky shores of the Pacific since 1901. One of Byron Bay’s most memorable landmarks, the lighthouse affords panoramic views along the coast and is home to a Maritime Museum.

With sun-blushed golden sands, surf-worthy waves, and a backdrop of forested hills; Main Beach is Byron Bay’s flagship beach. Stretching along the town’s seafront promenade, it’s a favorite among locals and draws sunseekers from all around the country to swim, surf, and scuba dive.

To the east, and within walking distance, of Byron Bay’s town center and main beach, the picturesque, sheltered Wategos Beach is a popular spot for surfing, swimming, stand-up paddleboarding, and making use of the beachside picnic tables and barbecues. Along with a relaxing time and excellent scenery, hiking can be found here as well.

The coastal village of Lennox Head—conveniently situated between Ballina and Byron Bay—is loved by travelers for its sleepy seaside feel, lush surroundings, and surf breaks. The beach area around Lennox Point is well-known for its right-hand break, so surfers flock from far and wide to test the waters. In fact, Lennox Head is now considered a National Surfing Reserve.

You’ll find plenty of beaches around Byron Bay and dotting the coastline of the expanded region. But for those that wish to get far out of the town and away from typical surfing and swimming hot spots, expansive Seven Mile Beach calls. This peaceful stretch of sand is ideal for those who prefer a quieter escape and fewer crowds.

Part of Australia’s Gondwana Rainforests, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Lamington National Park is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Covering 77 square miles (200 square kilometers), it’s known for its rich biodiversity, ancient trees, over 500 waterfalls, and more than 100 miles (160 kilometers) of hiking trails.

Mainland Australia’s most easterly point, Cape Byron juts out into the Pacific Ocean above the seaside town of Byron Bay, topped with the historic Cape Byron Lighthouse. A walking loop delivers sweeping views of the bay and beaches, while the headland and life-filled waters below it form the Cape Byron State Conservation Area.

Tumbling 330 feet (100 meters) over a sheer cliff surrounded by ancient rainforest, the spectacular Minyon Falls is a highlight of Byron Bay’s hinterland and the epicenter of Nightcap National Park. When conditions allow, you can swim in the plunge pool at the base of the falls or admire them from the Minyon Falls Lookout up top.

Byron Bay’s reputation as one of Australia’s surf hot spots is in large part thanks to The Pass and surfers flock to the beach from all around the globe. Fringed by white sands, rock pools, and the bush-covered headlands of Cape Byron; it’s a scenic spot for strolling, surfing, and snorkeling.

Stretching 1.5 miles (2.5 kilometers to the north of Byron Bay's Main Beach, all the way up to the Belongil Creek mouth, Belongil Beach offers a welcome respite from the crowds of the popular Main Beach. It is also known for having several diverse sections to suit the needs of many, from a dog-friendly area to a nude-friendly area.