Cape Byron Lighthouse
Byron Bay · Activities & Tours
(9,308 reviews)
The most easterly point of the Australian mainland sits at the top of a 3.6-kilometre return walk through coastal heathland, and the lighthouse at its peak has been guiding ships since 1901. The path from the car park climbs steadily past whale-watching lookouts that earn their reputation between June and November, when humpbacks move through in numbers. The lighthouse itself is still operational, white-painted and working, with views that sweep from Byron township across to the hinterland ranges. Dolphins are a near-constant below the headland. Come early morning before the tour groups arrive, or late afternoon when the light is doing what it does. The walk is accessible but not flat. Wear shoes you'd actually walk in.
Opening Hours
- Monday10am – 4pm
- Tuesday10am – 4pm
- Wednesday10am – 4pm
- Thursday10am – 4pm
- Friday10am – 4pm
- Saturday10am – 4pm
- Sunday10am – 4pm
What People Say
The Cape Byron Lighthouse is a dream. The stark white lighthouse stands beautifully against the deep blue sky, overlooking the endless azure sea. With the bright sunshine and a gentle breeze, it’s the perfect spot to let your mind wander and feel truly relaxed. Note that there’s a $10 parking fee to drive up, but the stunning views are worth every cent.
It's a bit of a yreck to get here bit well worth it. Amazing views and fantastic views on the way. The whole loop is about 3.5k but there is an access road and carpark for those who don't want to walk.
Great view. $10 per hour parking, with a minimum of $10 was a bit much when you only want to take a quick photo and head off. Everything was shut as it was around 6pm but still had to pay to park. Parking is charged all the way up the hill.
Great walk up from the Byron Beach. You feel amazing when you up to the top. The views are amazing! We were so lucky, saw turtles, rays and dolphins!
A Must-Do in Byron! Coastal views, rainforest, and wildlife. The walk up to the Cape Byron Lighthouse was the absolute highlight of my trip to Byron Bay! I highly recommend taking the coastal track. The path takes you through a beautiful small rainforest and then follows the cliffs with stunning ocean views. Along the way, there are several information boards where you can learn about the Indigenous culture and the history of the local Arakwal people, which was really interesting. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife! If you’re lucky, you can spot koalas or wallabies in the trees/bush, and we were even lucky enough to see dolphins playing in the waves below. What I loved most is that even though it’s popular, it didn’t feel too overcrowded. There are also a couple of cute cafés along the way (or right at the top) where you can take a break, grab a coffee, and just enjoy the scenery. Don't miss out on this – it’s the perfect mix of nature, culture, and relaxation!
More Activities & Tours in Byron Bay
Byron Bay Ballooning
Byron Bay
Dawn flights over the Tweed Valley hinterland, with the Byron lighthouse visible on a clear morning and macadamia farms rolling out below. A champagne breakfast follows landing. The 5am pickup is non-negotiable, but the light at that hour is the whole point.
Cape Byron Kayaks
Byron Bay
Morning kayak tours launching from Clarkes Beach, with the Cape Byron headland as your landmark and dolphins as a genuine possibility. Accessible to beginners, priced in the middle of the Byron activities market. The lighthouse circuit is the one to book.
Captain Cook Lookout & Picnic Area
Byron Bay
Free, windswept, and sitting at the eastern tip of mainland Australia, this lookout on Lighthouse Rd delivers ocean views on three sides and a picnic area that beats any restaurant terrace in town. Arrive at dawn or after 4pm to avoid the tour bus window.
Byron Bay Cavanbah Centre - Sports & Cultural Complex
Byron Bay
Byron's main community sports and cultural complex on Ewingsdale Road. Courts, fields, event space, and a calendar that runs on local rhythms rather than tourist ones. Worth checking what's on before you drive out.