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Cape Byron Lighthouse, Byron Bay |
There's no place on the NSW coast exactly like Byron Bay. A longtime favourite escape for Australians from all over the country, Byron Bay is more than a location; it's a state of mind. The local lifestyle places a firm focus on improving physical and mental health, and the many retreats, spas and health food stores are matched by the incredible beauty of the area and an impressive collection of hikes and walks. Check out the best walks and hikes in Byron Bay and find a rewarding route that will help you get the most out of your time up north.
1) Cape Byron Walking Track
Distance: 3.7km
Suggested duration: 2 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
When you're talking about the best Byron Bay hikes and walks, no list is going to be complete without this signature stroll. The Cape Byron Walking Track has a little bit of everything. And while you can complete the 3.7km loop in a couple hours, why would you ever want to? As with most things in this part of the world, it's better to just leave the watch at home and take your time.
Spend the whole afternoon working your way slowly through the different sections of this walk. You'll have access to wonderful beaches and views of the ocean, walk on cliff tops and through beautiful rain forest, and get a chance to visit the storied Cape Byron Lighthouse. Tackle smaller sections of it with the kids, especially if you want to stop off at a couple of beaches, or break the journey with an organic juice at one of the cafes dotted along the route.
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Suggested duration: 2 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
When you're talking about the best Byron Bay hikes and walks, no list is going to be complete without this signature stroll. The Cape Byron Walking Track has a little bit of everything. And while you can complete the 3.7km loop in a couple hours, why would you ever want to? As with most things in this part of the world, it's better to just leave the watch at home and take your time.
Spend the whole afternoon working your way slowly through the different sections of this walk. You'll have access to wonderful beaches and views of the ocean, walk on cliff tops and through beautiful rain forest, and get a chance to visit the storied Cape Byron Lighthouse. Tackle smaller sections of it with the kids, especially if you want to stop off at a couple of beaches, or break the journey with an organic juice at one of the cafes dotted along the route.
See map >
2) Minyon Falls Loop
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| Nightcap National Park, Whian Whian |
Suggested duration: 3-4 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
About 45 minutes west of Byron Bay, in the lush Byron Hinterland, is a walk that leads to one of NSW's best waterfalls. Minyon Falls plunges 100m through the World Heritage-listed rainforest of Nightcap National Park. It's a Grade 3 track, so there are challenging sections, but you’ll be rewarded with gorgeous greenery at every turn. Pack picnic gear for a refuel at Minyon Grass picnic area or the scenic Minyon Falls lookout. Make sure to pack your swimmers, as you can jump into the clear pool at the foot of the falls.
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3) Lennox Head Boardwalk Distance: 1.4km
Suggested duration: 30 minutes one wayDifficulty: Easy
Sometimes less is more. Lennox Head is just 15 minutes south of Byron Bay and its waterfront boardwalk is an excellent short walk, especially for those with limited fitness or who have some youngsters with them. As with most walks in this region, you'll be treated to expansive views of the Pacific Ocean. But what makes this option so nice is that these views are paired with a finished, family-friendly boardwalk route and a welcoming town full of cafes, restaurants and all-important bathroom facilities. Grab a coffee as you head out or reward the kids at the end with a tasty treat.
Park at the end of Rutherford Street and start the walk there. You'll head south, with the ocean on your left, until you reach Pat Morton Lookout atop Lennox Point. As Lennox Head is a favourite surfing spot for locals, you'll have plenty of entertainment as you watch people paddle, ride and wipe out from your perch on ‘The Point'.
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| Victoria Park boardwalk, Victoria Park Nature Reserve Photo Credit: NSW Government |
4) Victoria Park Boardwalk
Distance: 400m
Suggested duration: 30 minutes
Difficulty: Easy
Another of the region's quick walks that’s perfect for families, the Victoria Park Boardwalk is in a quiet nature reserve between Ballina and Lismore. Victoria Park Nature Reserve represents some of the area’s pre-colonial rainforest known as the Big Scrub that once covered 45,000 hectares. You'll find plenty of information dotting the walk about native bushland and the area's indigenous population. There are barbecues and picnic tables for public use if you want to recharge. There's also a car park at the reserve, and you shouldn't have to hunt for a space.
See map >
Suggested duration: 30 minutes
Difficulty: Easy
Another of the region's quick walks that’s perfect for families, the Victoria Park Boardwalk is in a quiet nature reserve between Ballina and Lismore. Victoria Park Nature Reserve represents some of the area’s pre-colonial rainforest known as the Big Scrub that once covered 45,000 hectares. You'll find plenty of information dotting the walk about native bushland and the area's indigenous population. There are barbecues and picnic tables for public use if you want to recharge. There's also a car park at the reserve, and you shouldn't have to hunt for a space.
See map >
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