Australia's easternmost point: a gleaming white 1901 lighthouse above humpback highways and the first sunrise on the continent.
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Stand at Cape Byron for dawn and you’re the first person on mainland Australia to see the sun. The 1901 lighthouse — brilliant white above 100-metre sea cliffs — is among the most photographed buildings in the country, and the headland beneath it is a front-row seat for dolphins year-round and humpbacks from May to November.
Shooting the Cape
The classic compositions: the lighthouse glowing pink at dawn from the northern viewing area; the curve of Wategos Beach below from the Cape Byron walking track; and the beam sweeping against star trails after dark (the precinct stays open). Winter mornings bring whales into the same frame as the tower.
The lighthouse walk
The 3.7 km Cape Byron walking track loops from town through rainforest, along Wategos and up to the light — do it clockwise for sunrise at the top. Parking at the summit is limited and paid; walking up is free and better. Add the lookouts of the Byron hinterland or a Northern Rivers road trip, and browse more photography spots.
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Facilities
Paid summit car park, cafe at the lighthouse, toilets; full facilities in Byron Bay
Photography Tips
Dawn from the northern platform lights the tower pink; in winter, a telephoto catches whale blows beneath the cliffs in the same frame.
Insider Tips
Skip the tiny paid summit car park — walk the track from Wategos or town for sunrise. The precinct is open 24/7 even when the cottage cafe is closed.
Getting There
Follow Lighthouse Road from Byron Bay town centre (5 minutes by car, paid parking) or walk the 3.7 km Cape Byron track via Wategos Beach.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Cape Byron really Australia's easternmost point?
Yes — the headland below the lighthouse is the easternmost point of mainland Australia, marked by a sign on the walking track.
How long is the Cape Byron lighthouse walk?
The full loop is about 3.7 km with a solid climb, taking 1.5–2 hours return from town via Wategos Beach.
When can you see whales at Cape Byron?
Humpbacks pass close to the cape from May to November, with peak numbers in June–July (northbound) and September–October (southbound).
Does it cost money to visit Cape Byron Lighthouse?
The precinct and walking track are free; you only pay for the small summit car park or an optional guided tower tour.
