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Cape Byron walking track

Cape Byron State Conservation Area

Affected by closures, check current alerts 

Visitor info

All the practical information you need to know about Cape Byron walking track.

Track grading

Grade 3

Learn more about the grading system

Features of this track

Distance

3.7km loop

Time

1 - 3hrs

Quality of markings

Clearly sign posted

Experience required

No experience required

Gradient

Short steep hills

Steps

Many steps

Quality of path

Formed track

Getting there and parking

Get driving directions

Get directions

    The loop walk can be started at numerous points, including Captain Cook lookout, The Pass, Wategos Beach and Cape Byron Lighthouse. To get there follow Lawson Street (which becomes Lighthouse Road) from Byron Bay town centre and look for the signs

    Parking

    Parking is available at Captain Cook lookout, The Pass, Wategos Beach and Cape Byron Lighthouse.

    Best times to visit

    There are lots of great things waiting for you in Cape Byron State Conservation Area. Here are some of the highlights.

    Spring

    With the weather being a bit cooler, it's the perfect time of year for walking, barbecues and picnics on the beach.

    Summer

    Summer holidays beckon you – enjoy swimming, snorkelling, surfing, building sandcastles, or relaxing in the shade.

    Winter

    Cape Byron is a great spot to watch for whales on their annual migration - remember to take binoculars.

    Weather, temperature and rainfall

    Summer temperature

    Average

    22°C and 27°C

    Highest recorded

    35.1°C

    Winter temperature

    Average

    15°C and 21°C

    Lowest recorded

    3.3°C

    Rainfall

    Wettest month

    March

    Driest month

    September

    The area’s highest recorded rainfall in one day

    350.4mm

    Maps and downloads

    Safety messages

    Beach safety

    Beaches in this park are not patrolled, and can sometimes have strong rips and currents. These beach safety tips will help you and your family stay safe in the water.

    Bushwalking safety

    If you're keen to head out on a longer walk or a backpack camp, always be prepared. Read these bushwalking safety tips before you set off on a walking adventure in national parks.

    Mobile safety

    Dial Triple Zero (000) in an emergency. Download the Emergency Plus app before you visit, it helps emergency services locate you using your smartphone's GPS. Please note there is limited mobile phone reception in this park and you’ll need mobile reception to call Triple Zero (000).

    Accessibility

    Disability access level - hard

    Wheelchairs can access this area with some difficulty

    • The boardwalk from Captain Cook Lookout to Brooke Drive is pram and wheelchair accessible. However, most parts of the track are steep, with many steps.

    Prohibited

    Pets

    Pets and domestic animals (other than certified assistance animals) are not permitted. Find out which regional parks allow dog walking and see the pets in parks policy for more information.

    Smoking

    NSW national parks are no smoking areas.

    Cape Byron walking track

    Operated by

    Park info

    • in Cape Byron State Conservation Area in the North Coast region
      • Cape Byron State Conservation Area is open all hours, but may have to close at times due to poor weather or fire danger.
      • Cape Byron Lighthouse lawn is open 8am to sunset.
      • The Maritime Museum in the former Lighthouse Keeper’s office at the base of the lighthouse is open 10am to 4pm daily.
      • Opening before 8am for events or disabled access can be arranged by prior notice – contact NPWS Byron Bay office during business hours 02 6639 8300.

    • Park entry fees:

      Cape Byron Lighthouse lawn and Information Centre: $10 per vehicle per hour/$4 per hour motorcycles. Maximum 1 hour per vehicle per calendar day, including all NPWS annual passholders.

      Captain Cook lookout, Cosy Corner, and The Pass: $5 per vehicle/motorcycle per hour. Tap and pay card or phone payments accepted at pay machines. Cash and credit cards accepted at Cape Byron Information Centre.

      Coach entry: $30 per coach up to 30 seats; $57 per coach 31 to 43 seats; $94 per coach 44 seats and over.

      Buy annual pass

    Visitor centre