Things to do in South Ballina

Wategos Beach is a beautifully protected crescent beach that huddles below the most easterly point in mainland Australia. Swim and play in the gentle waves that roll in from the north or explore the grassy foreshore. With scenic picnic facilities, a shady promenade and walking tracks to the top of the spectacular cape, this beach is a great spot to bring the family for a day of fun by the beach.

Main Beach is an urban bay that runs along the busiest part of Byron Bay along the Pacific Ocean. It is flanked by a picturesque topography of parks, nature trails and lookout spots. Bring your kids to play on this family-friendly beach on a warm and clear day.

Standing on Australia’s far-eastern edge, the Cape Byron Lighthouse has been sending its bright beam over the Pacific Ocean each night since 1901. Explore the lighthouse’s awe-inspiring precinct and be treated to some of the most spectacular coastal views in Byron Bay. Spot turtles and dolphins or watch the surfers carving up the waves offshore. Check out the on-site Maritime Museum and learn seafaring stories and tales of shipwrecks.

Discover some of Byron Bay’s best-kept secrets when you explore Belongil Beach. Stretching north from Byron Bay’s seawall toward the mouth of the meandering Belongil Creek, this 1.5-mile (2.5-kilometer) strip of golden sands has plenty of space and diverse appeal. The whole family can enjoy a relaxing swim under the watchful supervision of the local surf lifesaving club. Get your snorkel and mask on to discover the mysteries of the SS Wollongbar shipwreck or enjoy ultimate freedom at the beach’s nudist section.

People from across the world flock to Byron Bay, known for designer boutiques and award-winning restaurants with a backdrop of dazzling beaches, including Clarkes Beach. This spot is just far enough from the main beach to keep crowds to a minimum. Spend lazy days surfing and spotting dolphins, with loads of space to yourself on the golden sand.

Explore the shoreline of Tallow Beach to experience the natural beauty of the North Coast, where soft sands meet the rolling surf of the Pacific Ocean. Stretching between Cape Byron State Conservation Area and Broken Head Nature Reserve, Tallow Beach sits on the edge of the coastal wilderness and presents fantastic opportunities for wildlife spotting. Relax on the sand, swim in the waves or cast a beach-fishing line at this expansive stretch of coast.

The Pass attracts those looking to surf challenging waves. However, it’s also a beautiful stretch of white sand beach for long, lazy days in the sun. Sit back and relax as you watch the surfing action, take refreshing dips in the sea and explore the nearby attractions of Byron Bay. Visit The Pass for a few hours then walk to award-winning restaurants and streets dotted with shops selling items for wide-ranging tastes and needs.

Arakwal National Park is a protected area of golden sands and coastal heathland named for the traditional Aboriginal owners of the land. The Arakwal indigenous community co-manages this beautiful national park that bridges the Cape Byron State Conservation Area and the Broken Head Nature Reserve. Swim in the waves or walk on the soft sands and enjoy views of the uninterrupted horizon of the Pacific Ocean, bordered to the north by the rocky bluff of Cape Byron.