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Cape Byron walking track

Walgun Cape Byron State Conservation Area

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Overview

Enjoy spectacular coastal views along the Cape Byron walking track that takes you on a hike through rainforest, beach, grassland and clifftops to the lighthouse.

Accessibility
Hard
Distance
3.7km loop
Time suggested
1 - 3hrs
Grade
Grade 3
Entry fees
Park entry fees apply
What to
bring
Drinking water, hat, sunscreen
Please note
  • Stick to the track and stay away from cliff edges
  • Remember to take your binoculars if you want to whale watch
  • It can be a busy place on the weekend, so parking might be limited
  • To find out about tours of Cape Byron lighthouse or the Maritime Museum please phone 02 6639 8300 or email npws.tweedbyron@environment.nsw.gov.au

You’ll need a good two hours to properly experience the Cape Byron walking track – but it’s so rich in delights, so don’t be surprised if you reach the end and feel like doing it all again. In fact, it’s one of the best ways to spend a couple of hours on the state’s entire coast.

The 3.7km loop leads you on a hike through rainforest and across clifftops with stunning views of the ocean and hinterland.

En route you’ll wander through the shade of bangalow palms and ancient burrawangs, across kangaroo grasslands, along picturesque beaches and up to Cape Byron Lighthouse. Remember to keep an eye out on the water for turtles, dolphins, stingrays and, in season, whales.

If you’d prefer an easier walk, the track can be accessed at numerous points and walked in shorter sections.

Take a virtual tour of Cape Byron walking track captured with Google Street View Trekker.

For directions, safety and practical information, see visitor info

Conservation program:

The Pass midden

NSW National Parks first recorded The Pass midden in Walgun Cape Byron State Conservation Area in 1980. And, in 2013, ancient archaeological midden material was repatriated and displayed on Country. Today, along with our Aboriginal community partners, NPWS works to protect The Pass midden, both now and into the future.

The Pass in Walgun Cape Byron Conservation Area. Photo: John Spencer © DPIE

General enquiries

Operated by

Park info

  • in Walgun Cape Byron State Conservation Area in the North Coast region
    • Walgun 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
See more visitor info