Cape Byron Lighthouse & Walk
Mainland Australia’s most easterly point, first to catch the sunrise — the heritage 1901 lighthouse, a clifftop walking track past Wategos Beach, and dolphins and whales.
Cape Byron Lighthouse & Walk
Standing on Cape Byron, you’re at the most easterly tip of mainland Australia — the first place in the country to catch the sunrise. Crowning the headland is the white 1901 lighthouse, and looping below it is one of the coast’s best walks, past Wategos Beach, the Pass and clifftops alive with dolphins and, in season, whales. Here’s how to make the most of it.
What to See & Do
Sunrise at the Cape
Be first in Australia to see the sun rise from the most easterly point.
The Walking Track
A scenic clifftop loop past Wategos Beach and the Pass, with big ocean views.
Dolphins & Whales
Dolphins year-round; migrating humpbacks close in from June to November.
The Lighthouse
The heritage lighthouse precinct and lookouts crowning the headland.
Cape Byron Tips
- Go at sunrise for the light and the crowds-free headland — or late afternoon
- The loop is ~3.7 km with stairs — wear proper shoes and take water
- Arrive early for parking (paid on the headland), which fills fast
- Bring binoculars in winter and spring for whales
- Combine it with Byron Bay town and beaches
Related
Cape Byron — FAQ
Where is Cape Byron?
Cape Byron, at Byron Bay, is the most easterly point of mainland Australia — so it catches the country’s first sunrise. The heritage Cape Byron Lighthouse (1901) sits on the headland above the walking track.
Is the Cape Byron walking track hard?
The Cape Byron Walking Track is a roughly 3.7 km loop with some steep sections and stairs, taking around 1.5–2 hours. It passes Wategos Beach, the Pass and the most easterly point, with big ocean views throughout.
Can you go inside the lighthouse?
You can visit the lighthouse precinct and grounds; guided tours of the tower run at times. Opening times and tours change, so check current details. The walk and lookouts are free; parking on the headland is paid.
Can you see whales and dolphins?
Yes — dolphins are common year-round off the cape, and migrating humpback whales pass close in winter and spring (roughly June to November). The headland lookouts are among the best land-based whale spots on the coast.
When is the best time to go?
Sunrise is magical (you’re first in the nation to see it), and late afternoon is quieter and cooler for the climb. Go early for parking, which fills fast in peak season.
Northern Rivers, Planned Around You
Byron Bay and the lighthouse, the surf beaches, the rainforest hinterland and its villages, distilleries and the rail trail — with the driving and bookings handled by the family that’s toured Australia since 1974.
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