Cape Byron Walking Track

The Cape Byron Walking Track is the celebrated loop that winds around the dramatic Cape Byron headland at Byron Bay, taking in some of the most spectacular coastal scenery in the country. Climbing from the beaches up through rainforest and grassland to the iconic lighthouse, the track strings together clifftop lookouts, hidden coves and the marked easternmost point of the Australian mainland.

The appeal is that incredible variety in one walk: sweeping ocean panoramas, the chance to spot dolphins year-round and whales in season, lush coastal rainforest and the landmark Cape Byron Lighthouse at the top. It's a quintessential Byron experience, and one of the finest short coastal walks anywhere — rewarding at any time, but especially magical at sunrise.

With a 4.8 rating from more than 700 reviews, it's an overwhelmingly admired walk. The track is free but includes some steep sections, the headland is exposed, and parking and access conditions vary, so it's worth checking details before you set off — and taking water, sun protection and good footwear, and arriving early to beat the crowds, particularly if you're walking it for sunrise.