National Parks

Fringed by the pristine coastline and backing onto rolling hinterland, it’s no wonder that the Byron Bay Shire boasts an uncommonly high number of national parks on its doorstep. The Byron Bay National Parks offer exquisite landscapes and abundant wildlife where you’re spoiled for choice when you’re next pining after a dose of nature.

Arakwal National Park – Afternoon Picnic Getaway

Only 2 km from Byron Bay, the Arakwal National Park is a natural getaway that will satisfy even the most exhausted urban dwellers. Despite being just a stone’s throw from the township, the park provides secluded beaches and wildlife. The reserve pays homage to its Aboriginal heritage, offering an idyllic dose of nature. With sweeping coastal views and the iconic Byron Bay lighthouse visible on the horizon, the Arakwal National Park is the ideal afternoon picnic escape or morning walk.

The map below is for a 2.15hr return trail in the Arakwal National Park and the walk passes behind and along Tallow Beach. It is a very scenic and beautiful trail, popular for bird watching and its pristine Australian native scrub. Please refer to the map below as a guide. The trail requires moderate fitness, covering various tracks to the Arakwal lookout on Paterson Street and from there the walk loops back to the start point. Dogs are not allowed on this trail.

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Arakwal Walk Map

For more information on access and facilities, please visit National Parks New South Wales.

Cape Byron State Conservation Area

Featuring a rugged coastline where sheer cliffs open to sandy beaches, the Cape Byron State Conservation Area is an ideal active destination with an abundance of coastal walking tracks. Less than 15 minutes out of the centre of the township, you’ll be greeted by the Cape Byron Lighthouse, the Cape Byron walking track, the Maritime Museum, numerous sandy beaches and local coastal cafes. To experience Cape Byron in its full splendour, challenge yourself to the iconic Cape Byron walking track. This 4km loop takes a scenic route, winding through lush rainforest, sandy beaches, vast grasslands and the iconic Cape Byron clifftops before passing Byron’s iconic white-washed lighthouse.

Please note that parking fees apply in this area. For more information on access and facilities, please visit National Parks New South Wales.

Broken Head Nature Reserve

A 20-minute drive from the township will take you to the stunning Broken Head Nature Reserve, where Aboriginal culture and untouched nature blend to create the ideal day trip. The expansive park encompasses sheer cliffs, lush rainforest and secluded beaches as well as boasting a unique subtropical rainforest known as the Littoral Rainforest. Access can be found via the scenic Seven Mile Beach Road which hugs the winding coastline and provides access to the Broken Head village as well as superb walking trails. Indulge in the Aboriginal Heritage of the Three Sisters rock formations, picnic on the beach and keep your eyes peeled for the abundant local wildlife.

Please note that parking fees apply in this area. For more information on access, facilities and camping, please visit National Parks New South Wales.

Tyagarah Nature Reserve

This expansive park covers sandy beaches, unique wetland ecosystems and dedicated picnic areas making it one of the most popular Byron Bay National Parks. Embark on one of the park’s many walking trails behind the dunes and explore the region’s bush and wetlands to explore some of the park’s six endangered ecological communities including coastal saltmarsh and oak floodplain forest. For the more adventurous, afterwards head to the sweeping coastline of Tyagarah Beach, one of Australia’s only nude beaches! This serene coastal landscape also plays host to skydiving for some of Byron Bay’s best views.

Please note parking fees apply in this area. For more information on access, and facilities please visit National Parks New South Wales.

Nightcap National Park

Head inland to the Nightcap National Park to wander spectacular waterfalls and swim in natural freshwater pools. Explore the World-Heritage listed rainforests with a multitude of walking tracks and hidden pockets including the popular Big Scrub Loop and Goorgana walking track. For the ultimate picnic destination head to the Minyon Fall lookout where you are greeted with panoramic views of the 100m high waterfall and native Australian bush. Not only does this spot boast the park’s best views, it also comes equipped with a picnic area including shaded areas, public barbecues and picnic tables. This area is also the start of many of Nightcap National Park’s more popular walks. (please check the National Parks website for updated information on which walks are open following the flood damage in early 2022)

For more information on access, facilities and camping, please visit National Parks New South Wales.

Mount Jerusalem National Park

Encompassing three river systems and covering an area over 5000 hectares, this protected area is not to be missed. Comprehensive and well-maintained walking trails explore the Tweed River, the Brunswick River and the Richmond River while the surrounding bush also contains the largest known population of Albert’s Lyrebirds as well as other significant bird colonies. The lower crowd numbers make way for more preserved wildlife with the quiet bush and serene rivers offering fantastic wildlife viewing opportunities. (please check the National Parks website for updated information on which walks are open following the flood damage in early 2022)

For more information on access, facilities and camping in the Byron Bay National Parks, please visit National Parks New South Wales.

Things to do

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Bower Camp Co.

Immerse yourself in nature on one of Bower Camp Co’s fully catered, comfortable camps. Explore the beautiful National Parks of the region, taking in breathtaking beaches, magnificent rainforests or tranquil inland waterways, all whilst enjoying the comfort that Bower Camp Co brings.

2024-09-02T15:55:11+10:00

K’gari Explorer Tours

Explore K'gari’s (formerly Fraser Island) rugged sand tracks in the comfort of a custom-designed 4WD coach with 1 and 2 day tours available.

2023-11-13T14:39:45+10:00

Explore Byron Bay Aboriginal Tours

We invite you to join us on a special Aboriginal tour within Cape Byron or at Broken Head. Our tours are guided by Delta Kay, an Arakwal Bundjalung woman who is passionate about sharing local Aboriginal culture.

2024-05-27T14:41:24+10:00

Byron Trails – 50 walking adventures in Byron Bay and beyond

Byron Trails is the best-selling local guidebook of coastal and hinterland walks accessible from Byron Bay. The book by Irish author Mairéad Cleary offers 50 fabulous walking trails in the tranquil nature of the Byron area. Buy online or at our Visitor Centre.

2024-04-24T15:06:43+10:00

Dingo’s Fraser Island 4WD Tours

K'Gari (Fraser Island) is one of the most iconic adventure destinations along the East Coast. Dingo's Fraser Island Tours will make sure you get the very best out of your K'Gari (Fraser Island) adventure. We'll take you to the crystal-clear waters of Lake McKenzie, send you floating down Eli Creek and walk you into Pile Valley's ancient rainforest.