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Walgun Cape Byron State Conservation Area

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Overview

Walgun Cape Byron State Conservation Area is great for school excursions and is home to Cape Byron lighthouse, heritage accommodation, walking tracks, scenic lookouts and the Cape Café.

Read more about Walgun Cape Byron State Conservation Area

For over a century, the elegant Cape Byron Lighthouse has graced Australia’s most easterly point. Its powerful lamp still burns brightly across the bay and you can visit this historic landmark or even stay in one of the charming keepers’ cottages. If you’d prefer to be closer to the beach, there’s a choice of award-winning eco-tourism beach cottages within the park.

Cape Byron is a brilliant location for whale watching and the walking track provides spine-tingling views of the surrounding coast and ocean. You can enjoy a bite to eat at the Cape Café, with panoramic views across the hinterland to Byron Bay.

Spend the afternoon relaxing on the beach – try The Pass, Wategos or Tallows. If you’re feeling more adventurous, there’s great diving, snorkelling, surfing, hang gliding and kayaking – go on your own or with licensed tour operators.

 

Whale watching top spots

NSW national parks have the best vantage points to see whales during their annual migration, which takes place from May to November. Plan your next coastal adventure.

A humpback whale breaches the water off the NSW coast, near Sydney. Photo credit: Wayne Reynolds &copy Wayne Reynolds

 

The other side to Byron Bay

Byron Bay is popular for a reason, but if you're seeking a more secluded retreat, check out these lesser known and equally beautiful surf spots, beaches, walks and campsites.

Sunrise at the beach near Black Rocks campground, Bundjalung National Park. Photo: Stephanie Ranty.

General enquiries

Contact

  • in the North Coast region
    • Walgun Cape Byron State Conservation Area is open all hours, but may have to close at times due to poor weather or fire danger.
    • Cape Byron Lighthouse lawn is open 8am to sunset.
    • The Maritime Museum in the former Lighthouse Keeper’s office at the base of the lighthouse is open 10am to 4pm daily.
    • Opening before 8am for events or disabled access can be arranged by prior notice – contact NPWS Byron Bay office during business hours 02 6639 8300.
  • Park entry fees:

    Cape Byron Lighthouse lawn and Information Centre: $10 per vehicle per hour/$4 per hour motorcycles. Maximum 1 hour per vehicle per calendar day, including all NPWS annual passholders.

    Captain Cook lookout, Cosy Corner, and The Pass: $5 per vehicle/motorcycle per hour. Tap and pay card or phone payments accepted at pay machines. Cash and credit cards accepted at Cape Byron Information Centre.

    Coach entry: $30 per coach up to 30 seats; $57 per coach 31 to 43 seats; $94 per coach 44 seats and over.

    Buy annual pass
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