12 Best Walks in Byron Bay and Surrounds
Byron Bay and its neighbouring suburbs offer plenty of walking options, from coastal reserves to inland nature spots. Whether you're after ocean views, birdwatching, or peaceful bushland trails, here are some of the most popular walking destinations in the area.
1
Parks Byron Bay1. Broken Head Nature Reserve
This Byron Bay reserve combines coastal and bushland walks with views across headland terrain. It's a solid choice if you want variety in a single outing.
View venue4.8(380)· Google65Spot ScoreWorth a Look2
Cafes Ewingsdale2. The Farm Byron Bay
Located in Ewingsdale, this park offers a different kind of walk experience away from the busy town centre, with open green space.
View venue4.4(5,306)· Google64Spot ScoreWorth a Look3
Parks Byron Bay3. Brunswick Heads Main Beach
Ideal for a beach walk combining coastal scenery with access to walking trails. The main beach location in Byron Bay makes it easy to reach.
View venue4.6(517)· Google63Spot ScoreWorth a Look4
Parks Lennox Head4. Killen Falls
Situated near Lennox Head, this spot gives you waterfall scenery and a change of pace from purely coastal walking routes.
View venue4.6(548)· Google63Spot ScoreWorth a Look5
Walks Ewingsdale5. Behind the Bay
For a quieter walk in Ewingsdale away from the main tourist areas, this reserve offers bushland walking without the crowds.
View venue5.0(117)· Google63Spot ScoreWorth a Look6
Parks Ocean Shores6. Brunswick Heads Nature Reserve
The Mullumbimby location of this reserve provides inland walking access near the Brunswick River area.
View venue4.6(214)· Google61Spot ScoreWorth a Look7
Parks Byron Bay7. Tyagarah Nature Reserve
A Byron Bay reserve suited to walkers interested in native bushland and local ecology, with established trail access.
View venue4.5(131)· Google58Spot ScoreWorth a Look8
Parks Byron Bay8. Nguthungulli Julian Rocks Nature Reserve
This Byron Bay reserve offers coastal walking with views of the iconic Julian Rocks offshore formation.
View venue5.0(38)· Google57Spot ScoreWorth a Look9
Parks Ballina9. Victoria Park Nature Reserve
If you're visiting Ballina, this nature reserve provides a local walking option with park facilities nearby.
View venue4.6(86)· Google57Spot ScoreWorth a Look10
Parks Ballina10. Richmond River Nature Reserve
Another Ballina option, this reserve features riverine walks and is suited to those exploring further south from Byron Bay.
View venue4.7(55)· Google56Spot ScoreWorth a Look11
Parks Byron Bay11. Cumbebin Swamp Nature Reserve
This Byron Bay reserve offers a different ecosystem experience, with wetland walking trails and wildlife observation opportunities.
View venue4.4(39)· Google52Spot ScoreWorth a Look12
Parks Mullumbimby12. Brunswick Heads Nature Reserve
The Mullumbimby location of this reserve provides inland walking access near the Brunswick River area.
View venue4.6(20)· Google51Spot ScoreWorth a Look
At a glance
| Venue | Spot Score | Price | Suburb | Top feature | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Broken Head Nature Reserve | 65/100 | 4.8(380) | — | Byron Bay | — |
| The Farm Byron Bay | 64/100 | 4.4(5,306) | — | Ewingsdale | — |
| Brunswick Heads Main Beach | 63/100 | 4.6(517) | — | Byron Bay | — |
| Killen Falls | 63/100 | 4.6(548) | — | Lennox Head | — |
| Behind the Bay | 63/100 | 5.0(117) | — | Ewingsdale | — |
| Brunswick Heads Nature Reserve | 61/100 | 4.6(214) | — | Ocean Shores | — |
| Tyagarah Nature Reserve | 58/100 | 4.5(131) | — | Byron Bay | — |
| Nguthungulli Julian Rocks Nature Reserve | 57/100 | 5.0(38) | — | Byron Bay | — |
| Victoria Park Nature Reserve | 57/100 | 4.6(86) | — | Ballina | — |
| Richmond River Nature Reserve | 56/100 | 4.7(55) | — | Ballina | — |
| Cumbebin Swamp Nature Reserve | 52/100 | 4.4(39) | — | Byron Bay | — |
| Brunswick Heads Nature Reserve | 51/100 | 4.6(20) | — | Mullumbimby | — |
Frequently asked questions
Are these walks suitable for beginners?+
Most of the reserves listed offer accessible walking options, though difficulty varies. Coastal walks like Brunswick Heads Main Beach tend to be flatter and easier, while some inland reserves may have more uneven terrain. Check specific reserve conditions before visiting.
Do I need to pay to access these reserves?+
These are public reserves and parks. We don't have confirmed details on fees for each location, so contact ahead or check signage on arrival.
When is the best time to walk in Byron Bay?+
Early morning or late afternoon tends to be cooler and less crowded. Winter months (June to August) offer the most comfortable walking temperatures in the Byron Bay area.
Are there walking trails suitable for families with young children?+
Several of the coastal parks like Brunswick Heads Main Beach and The Farm Byron Bay have flatter terrain suitable for families, but trail conditions vary. It's worth checking specific reserve information before visiting with small children.
Can I bring dogs on these walks?+
Dog access rules differ across reserves and parks. Check directly with the managing authority or look for signage at the entrance to each location.
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