Planning a trip to Byron Bay and still sorting out your itinerary? Well there is no better way to experience the stunning beauty of Byron Bay than by exploring one of Australia’s most renowned walking trails!
The Byron Bay Lighthouse Walk offers a beautiful journey through diverse landscapes, from shaded bangalow palm stretches and picturesque beaches to scenic cliff tops, all while leading up to the iconic Cape Byron Lighthouse.
The Journey
The most common route has your journey beginning at the scenic Captain Cook Lookout, where you can soak in the expansive ocean views before you start. The walk in total stretches over 3.7 km, but fear not, as it’s dotted with regular signposts to help guide you. If you’re looking for a less intense experience, consider accessing the track from various points like The Pass or Wategos Beach to make your journey slightly more direct.
Is The Lighthouse Walk Beginner Friendly?
Rated as a grade 3 hike, this trail is welcoming for most ages and fitness levels. If you’ve had some previous experience with a bit of bushwalking before, all the better. For new hikers, be cautious that there are a few steep hills and rough patches to navigate – though most of the walk is quite manageable, with a well-maintained path to guide you.
Can I Park There?
Parking can be tricky, especially during Byron’s peak tourist seasons or on weekends. Fortunately, the beginning of the walk is less than two kilometres from the centre of Byron Bay, making central parking a good alternative if the Captain Cook Lookout parking is at capacity.
If you’re coming to Byron without a car, consider staying at Hotel Marvell, where the beginning of the walk is only a twenty minute stroll away.
How Long Does The Walk Take?
The time this walk takes is really dependent on how quickly you want to walk it. The most common trail time is around an hour and a half, however, if you’re rushing through it at its quickest, it’s likely to take a little over an hour. However, if you want to take your time, stop along the way, and maybe get a coffee from the cafe near the lighthouse, this walk could take closer to three hours.
While You’re At The Lighthouse
Make sure to visit the small maritime museum open from 10 am to 4 pm. Also, the cafe at the old lighthouse keeper’s cottage offers great coffees and light meals from 8:30am to 3:00pm every day.
What To Bring
Essentials for this walk include drinking water, a hat, and sunscreen. And don’t forget your binoculars! From the Cape Byron lookout, you might spot turtles, dolphins, stingrays, and during the right season, even whales. It’s quite common to see dolphins frolicking or whales breaching near the coast.
Are There Designated Visiting Hours?
The track is accessible any time of day, with the Cape Byron Lighthouse precinct operating from 8:30 am until just before sunset.
Stay Safe
Always stick to the designated paths and keep a safe distance from cliff edges. Remember, the track can get crowded, especially on weekends, so early morning or late afternoon might be the best time to avoid the rush.
Respecting the Rules
It’s important to note that pets and smoking are not permitted along the Cape Byron Lighthouse Track. The only exception for animals are certified assistance pets.
If you’re planning a trip to Byron Bay, make Hotel Marvell your home away from home. Our luxurious Byron hotel boasts an amazing rooftop pool, a chic rooftop cocktail bar, incredibly attentive staff, and Bonito, a renowned seafood restaurant right on the ground floor.
