Byron Bay is one of Australia’s most famous beachfront towns, and it doesn’t disappoint when it comes to natural beauty, vibrant culture, delectable cuisine and drink, calming ambience, and exciting activities.
One of the most iconic landmarks in Byron is Cape Byron Lighthouse. It sits on the easternmost point of mainland Australia and is a mesmerising sight during sunrise or sunset.
1. Cape Byron Lighthouse
Perched on the most easterly point of Australia, Cape Byron Lighthouse is a must-see when visiting Byron Bay. Built in 1901, this landmark is regarded as Australia’s most powerful lighthouse.
Located within Cape Byron State Conservation Area and accessible via a 3.7km loop walking track, visitors can walk through rainforest, beach, grassland and clifftops to the lighthouse.
The lighthouse’s one-time head lightkeeper’s office is now the Maritime Museum and displays images, artefacts and stories from the sea. It is also possible to take a guided tour of the lighthouse to learn more about its history and significance.
As well as being a landmark in Byron Bay, the lighthouse is also associated with the Bundjalung Indigenous people of the region. The lighthouse and surrounding headland reserve are a cultural treasure.
2. White’s Beach
One of Byron Bay’s most hidden treasures is White’s Beach. This small but secluded beach is surrounded by cliffs and is home to caves and rock pools.
The beach is a great spot to go for a quiet swim or to explore the caves. It’s also a great whale-watching location.
Located within Broken Head Nature Reserve, this beach is the first on the road north from Byron Bay.
It’s about a 20-minute drive from Byron Bay and is well worth a visit.
There is a car park along Seven Mile Beach Road and a walking track that leads to the beach. The walk down is delightful, taking you through natural rainforest surrounds and with incredible views.
3. Minyon Falls
One of Byron Bay’s most visited attractions, Minyon Falls plunges more than 100 metres over jagged cliffs to the pools below. It’s a beautiful place to explore and a must-see for those wanting to take their time and experience the best of the local area.
The falls lie within the World Heritage-listed Nightcap National Park near Byron Bay, NSW. The area was once the site of a shield volcano called Tweed, which formed huge cliffs and an abundant rainforest.
You can see the falls from two lookouts and a circuit walking track. You can also book a guided tour to the base of the waterfall, where you can swim in freshwater pools.
4. Fisherman’s Lookout
Often going by the name The Pass Lookout, this is one of the most famous Byron Bay coastal locations and boasts breathtaking views over the ocean, surfers and dolphins. It is also a very popular whale watching spot.
The clifftop walk up the wooden staircase to Fisherman’s Lookout offers stunning panoramic views of the ocean, surfers and dolphins. The timber viewing platform is ideal for capturing a photo of these wildlife creatures in action.
The vantage point also features an obelisk commemorating the sailors who were lost at sea. It was built in the late 1800s to honour them and is now part of a National Park.
5. The Pass
One of Byron Bay’s most beautiful beaches, 'The Pass' is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. The picturesque beach features turquoise water, sandy beaches, and rocky headlands.
Surfers love The Pass because of its long, gentle surf break. It’s perfect for longboarders, and is considered to be one of the best surf spots in Byron Bay.
It’s also a great place to swim and catch a glimpse of dolphins and whales in the ocean. However, be sure to follow lifeguards’ directions when swimming or surfing at 'The Pass' to ensure your safety.
