Cape Byron Walking Track, NSW, Australia

Cape Byron is the easternmost point of the mainland of Australia. It is located about 3 km east of the town of Byron Bay and projects into the Pacific Ocean. The views from the summit are spectacular, rewarding those who have climbed up from the Captain Cook Lookout on the Cape Byron Walking Track . Ribboning around the headland, the track dips and (mostly) soars its way to the lighthouse . Along the way, look out for dolphins (year-round) and migrating whales during their northern (June to July) and southern (September to November) migrations. You’re also likely to encounter brush turkeys and wallabies. Allow about two hours for the entire 3.7km loop.

Inside the 1901 lighthouse there are maritime and nature displays. If you want to venture to the top you’ll need to take one of the volunteer-run tours, which operate from around 10am to 3pm (gold-coin donation). There’s also a cafe here and self-contained accommodation in the lighthouse-keeper’s cottages. You can drive right up to the lighthouse and pay $7 for the privilege of parking (or nothing at all if you chance upon a park in the small lot 300m below).

The Cape Byron Headland Reserve is a State Conservation Area managed by the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service. It comprises spectacular sea cliffs, rare and beautiful coastal vegetation, spectacular beaches and a high quality walking track system that offers spectacular views of both the surrounding Cape Byron Marine Park and the hinterland to the west. Situated on the most easterly point of mainland Australia, the reserve is a popular tourist destination. The Cape Byron Lighthouse and lighthouse keepers cottages, built in 1901, are an outstanding feature of the reserve. All the buildings are listed on the National Estate Register, and offer visitors an insight into what life was like in the days of the lighthouse keepers.  Aboriginal culture is alive and well at Cape Byron. The Cape is very special to the Bundjalung of Byron Bay (Arakwal) Aboriginal people.