Where to Wander: The Cape Byron Walking Track

As beloved by locals as it is by tourists, we will happily join in the chorus that says the walk up to the lighthouse is on the Byron Bay bucket list. If you want the full experience, start at the Atlantic Reception and embark on a glorious hike that winds through rainforest, beach, grassland and cliff tops— a 3.7km loop that takes approximately 1.5 to 2hrs return (depending on how many selfies you stop for). Wander under the shade of bangalow palms and ancient burrawangs and see wallabies, water dragons and maybe even a koala along the way, while at the top you’re likely to spy dolphins, sea turtles and whales in the water. You can access the Cape Byron Walking Track by strolling along Main Beach up to the Pass, or head along Lawson St. to Lighthouse Rd. We like to head up the bush track, located up Lee Lane, opposite the Captain Cook Lookout. Stop for coffee at the peak next to the lighthouse, then cruise back down the ocean-facing track, which will spit you out at Wategos beach—the perfect place for a dip before heading back into town (conveniently past the Topshop for a gourmet burger is our favourite ending to this adventure).