Palm Valley Currenbah walking track

Walgun Cape Byron State Conservation Area

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Overview

Palm Valley Currenbah walking track in Walgun Cape Byron State Conservation Area is a short, wheelchair accessible walk through palm rainforest, perfect for a stroll after lunch.

Accessibility
Easy
Distance
0.7km loop
Time suggested
10min
Grade
Grade 1
Entry fees
Park entry fees apply
What to
bring
Drinking water, hat, sunscreen
Please note
  • Remember to take binoculars if you want to go whale watching at The Pass.
  • Parking may be limited during summer, weekends and holiday periods.
  • Watch out for large biting ants on the walking track

Palm Valley Currenbah walking track starts at Palm Valley carpark next to The Pass Café. It’s a cool escape from the bustle of Byron Bay, winding its way through shaded palm rainforest with picnic and barbecue facilities at either end.

This 10min walk is flat and paved, making it ideal for visitors with prams and wheelchairs. Opposite the carpark at the end of the walk is The Pass, a world-famous surfing beach that’s home to the oldest Aboriginal midden in the region.

Relax on the beach or head up to Fishermans Lookout, a fantastic place to spot migrating whales between June and November. If you’re up for a challenge, link up with Cape Byron walking track which offers incredible views over the headland.

For directions, safety and practical information, see visitor info

Map


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Current alerts in this area

There are no current alerts in this area.

Local alerts

For the latest updates on fires, closures and other alerts in this area, see https://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/things-to-do/walking-tracks/palm-valley-currenbah-walking-track/local-alerts

General enquiries

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 (//pass.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/).
See more visitor info

Visitor info

All the practical information you need to know about Palm Valley Currenbah walking track.

Track grading

Features of this track

Distance

0.7km loop

Time

10min

Quality of markings

Clearly sign posted

Experience required

No experience required

Steps

No steps

Gradient

Flat: The walk is mostly flat with a section in the middle of the track where it goes over a gentle slope.

Quality of path

Well-formed track: The walk is 2m-wide and bitumen seal.

Other barriers

Other barriers: There are 3 short wooden bridges along the walk that go over drainage lines and ephemeral creeks:

  • Two of the bridges narrow the track to 1.5m-wide.
  • The bridges can become slippery when wet.

Getting there and parking

Palm Valley Currenbah walking track is in The Pass precinct of Walgun Cape Byron State Conservation Area. To get there from the centre of Byron Bay:

  • Follow Lawson Street (which becomes Lighthouse Road) and turn left onto Brooke Drive.
  • Follow Brooke drive until you reach the carpark.

It’s a 5min drive or 30min walk from the centre of Byron Bay to Palm Valley carpark.

Road quality

  • Sealed roads

Vehicle access

  • 2WD vehicles

Weather restrictions

  • All weather

Parking

Parking is available at The Pass and Palm Valley in bitumen carparks, including 4 accessible parking spots. It can be busy on the weekend, so parking may be limited.

Facilities

The nearest toilets are located next to the Pass Cafe, which is around 300m from the start of this walking track. They are accessible flush toilets. There's also an outdoor cold-water beach shower.

Seats and resting points

There are 2 bench seats along the track, one in the northern part of the loop with a backrest and the other in the south-east part of the loop that's curved stone without a backrest.

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.

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 - easy

  • This 2m-wide sealed bitumen track is suitable for wheelchairs, prams, and visitors with limited mobility.
  • The walk is mostly flat, with a section in the middle that goes over a gentle slope.
  • You'll find 2 seats along the walk for resting. There are also picnic tables at Palm Valley picnic area.
  • 4 accessible parking spaces are available in bitumen carparks at The Pass and Palm Valley.

There are 3 short wooden bridges along the walk, 2 of which narrow the track to 1.5m-wide. The bridges can become slippery when wet.

Permitted

Fishing

A current NSW recreational fishing licence is required when fishing in all waters.

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.

Visitor centre

Learn more

Palm Valley Currenbah walking track is in Walgun Cape Byron State Conservation Area. Here are just some of the reasons why this park is special:

Cape Byron Lighthouse

Cape Byron Lighthouse, Cape Byron State Conservation Area. Photo: John Spencer

Perched high above Byron Bay's glorious coastline, historic Cape Byron lighthouse was constructed on this rugged headland in 1901. Its landmark 22m high white tower houses the light that still illuminates the bay of an evening. To find out more about the lighthouse take a tour with an expert guide and be sure to check out the Maritime Museum. In days gone by, lighthouse keepers were responsible for igniting the lighthouse's light of an evening. The keepers have long been replaced by automated light systems; however the Victorian Georgian style cottages in which they lived remain as heritage listed buildings. Today they operate as holiday accommodation, having been carefully restored to offer modern convenience while retaining their historical charm and an insight into the life of a lighthouse keeper.

  • Cape Byron Information Centre Cape Byron Information Centre is the place to find visitor information for Walgun Cape Byron State Conservation Area, Cape Byron Marine Park and surrounding national parks in the Byron Bay area.
  • Cape Byron Lighthouse: A special place Experience a bird’s eye view from the top of the iconic Cape Byron Lighthouse in this Early Stage 1 (Kindergarten) Geography excursion. Students will learn about the features of this special place and its significance to people and the community.
  • Cape Byron Lighthouse: A special place Experience a bird’s eye view from the top of the iconic Cape Byron Lighthouse in this Stage 1 (Years 1-2) geography excursion. Students will learn about the features of the lighthouse and its significance to people and the community.

Keepers of Country

The Pass, Cape Byron State  Conservation Area. Photo: John Spencer

Walgun, as Cape Byron is known by its traditional custodians, maintains spiritual, cultural and historical importance for the Bundjalung of Byron Bay (Arakwal) Aboriginal People. The pipi midden (shell mound) at The Pass is one of the largest and oldest in far north NSW.

  • Dolphin Dreaming Dolphin Dreaming is an Early Stage 1 (Kindergarten) school excursion in Cape Byron State Conservation Area, focusing on Geography. Through story, dance and creative expression, Arakwal Aboriginal guides present the life and culture of Byron Bay's Aboriginal people.
  • Dolphin Dreaming Dolphin Dreaming is a Stage 1 (Years 1-2) school excursion in Cape Byron State Conservation Area, focusing on Geography. Through story, dance and creative expression, Arakwal Aboriginal guides present the life and culture of Byron Bay's Aboriginal people.
  • Dolphin Dreaming Dolphin Dreaming is a Stage 3 (Years 5-6) school excursion in Cape Byron State Conservation Area, focusing on Geography. Through story, dance and creative expression, Arakwal Aboriginal guides present the life and culture of Byron Bay's Aboriginal people.
  • Dolphin Dreaming Dolphin Dreaming is a Stage 2 (Years 3-4) school excursion in Cape Byron State Conservation Area, focusing on Geography outcomes. Through story, dance and creative expression, Arakwal Aboriginal guides present the life and culture of Byron Bay's Aboriginal people.
  • Palm Valley Palm Valley, or ‘The Pass,’ offers well-equipped picnic areas right by the beach, plus a popular café, several walking tracks, and access to the Fishermans lookout.

View from the top

Humpback whale (Megaptera novaeangliae). Photo: Wayne G Reynolds

Walgun Cape Byron State Conservation Area is part of a significant north-to-south regional corridor for migratory animals, including the fruit dove and cuckoo shrike. Locals you might be lucky enough to spot while touring the area include threatened wallabies and sea eagles. A peaceful walk through the area’s serene littoral rainforest, with plant life; such as laurel trees, white lace flowers and basket ferns, to admire along the way, is sure to further enrich your experience of the Cape Byron area.

  • A whale of a time Discover the wonderful world of whales on this Stage 2 (Years 3-4) excursion around Cape Byron headland. This excursion is designed to support the Living World Science and Technology topic content strand.
  • Byron tandem hang gliding flights and lessons Try the thrilling sport of hang gliding with a tandem flight over spectacular Cape Byron or nearby Lennox Head. With 40 years’ experience, Byron Airwaves Hang Gliding School is your ticket to the freedom of flight.
  • Cape Byron walking track 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.
  • Cape Byron: The earth’s environment Join us on an Earth’s environment Geography excursion at beautiful Cape Byron for Stage 2 (Years 3-4) students. Students will explore the features of the reserve and learn about people’s differing perceptions of the park and how it is managed.
  • Wategos Beach Located just north west of Cape Byron and the lighthouse, Wategos Beach is one of Byron’s best places to picnic, paddle and play.
  • Whale secrets Discover whale secrets in a playful mix of drama, games, story and ocean discovery for Early Stage 1 (Kindergarten) students. This excursion supports the Living World topic of the K-10 Science and Technology syllabus.
  • Whale secrets Discover whale secrets at Cape Byron Lighthouse Headland. Students will experience a playful mix of drama, games, story, and ocean discovery for Stage 1 (Years 1-2) students. This excursion supports the Living World topic of the K-10 Science and Technology syllabus.
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Plants and animals protected in this park

Animals

  • Five pelicans stand at the beach shore in Bundjalung National Park as the sun rises. Photo: Nick Cubbin © DPE

    Australian pelican (Pelecanus conspicillatus)

    The curious pelican is Australia’s largest flying bird and has the longest bill of any bird in the world. These Australian birds are found throughout Australian waterways and the pelican uses its throat pouch to trawl for fish. Pelicans breed all year round, congregating in large colonies on secluded beaches and islands.

  • Australian brush turkey, Dorrigo National Park. Photo: Rob Cleary

    Australian brush turkey (Alectura lathami)

    The Australian brush turkey, also known as bush or scrub turkey, can be found in rainforests along eastern NSW. With a striking red head, blue-black plumage and booming call, these distinctive Australian birds are easy to spot while bird watching in several NSW national parks.

  • Superb fairy wren. Photo: Rosie Nicolai

    Superb fairy wren (Malurus cyaneus)

    The striking blue and black plumage of the adult male superb fairy wren makes for colourful bird watching across south-eastern Australia. The sociable superb fairy wrens, or blue wrens, are Australian birds living in groups consisting of a dominant male, mouse-brown female ‘jenny wrens’ and several tawny-brown juveniles.

Plants

  • Wonga Wonga vine. Photo: Barry Collier

    Wonga wonga vine (Pandorea pandorana)

    The wonga wonga vine is a widespread vigorous climber usually found along eastern Australia. A variation of the plant occurs in the central desert, where it resembles a sprawling shrub. One of the more common Australian native plants, the wonga wonga vine produces bell-shaped white or yellow flowers in the spring, followed by a large oblong-shaped seed pod.

  • Cabbage tree palm in Dalrymple-Hay Nature Reserve. Photo: John Spencer/OEH

    Cabbage palm (Livistona australis)

    With glossy green leaves spanning 3-4m in length and a trunk reaching a height of up to 30m, the cabbage tree palm, or fan palm, is one of the tallest Australian native plants. Thriving in rainforest margins along the east coast of NSW, in summer this giant palm produces striking spikes of cream flowers which resemble cabbages.

Environments in this park

Education resources (1)

School excursions (11)