Must Things to do, Byron Bay

Wategos Beach & Cape Byron – Byron Bay’s Iconic Coastal Escape

Nestled just northwest of Cape Byron and its famous lighthouse, Wategos Beach is one of Byron Bay’s most beloved coastal attractions. This picturesque, sheltered bay sits on the northern side of Cape Byron, offering calm waters, golden sand, and a relaxing atmosphere perfect for swimming, picnics, and long, easy beach days.

Protected by the headland from the wilder Pacific Ocean swells, Wategos Beach is a favourite for families and visitors seeking a peaceful retreat. It’s also one of the best places in Byron Bay to spot local bottlenose dolphins, who frequently cruise through the bay and often show off their smooth surfing skills on the incoming waves.

From Wategos, you can take on the steep steps at the eastern end of the beach to reach Cape Byron and the iconic Cape Byron Lighthouse. This headland is a highlight of the region—Cape Byron is the easternmost point of mainland Australia, positioned about 3 km (1.9 mi) east of Byron Bay at 28.6335° S, 153.6383° E.

Jutting into the Pacific Ocean, Cape Byron is renowned for its stunning walking tracks, panoramic viewpoints, and excellent whale-watching opportunities during migration seasons. The area is also home to two protected natural spaces: a conservation area and a marine park, both supporting rich biodiversity and spectacular scenery.

Whether you’re here to swim, hike, dolphin-watch, or simply soak up the beauty of Byron Bay’s coastline, Wategos Beach and Cape Byron offer a truly unforgettable coastal experience.

Why Visit:

• Stunning natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere
  Wategos Beach offers calm turquoise waters, golden sand, and a sheltered bay perfect for swimming, relaxing, and soaking up classic Byron Bay coastal scenery.

  Incredible wildlife encounters
  From playful bottlenose dolphins that surf the waves to migrating whales passing Cape Byron, this area is one of Australia’s best natural viewing spots for marine life.

  Access to iconic viewpoints and walking tracks
  Cape Byron is the easternmost point of mainland Australia and home to the famous Cape Byron Lighthouse. The walking tracks from Wategos provide breathtaking panoramic views over the Pacific Ocean.

Tips:

• Arrive early for parking and the best spots
  Wategos Beach is extremely popular, and parking can fill up quickly—especially on weekends and during holidays. Arriving early ensures you get a good park and a prime position on the sand.

  Wear good footwear for the Cape Byron walking track
  If you plan to climb the steep steps from Wategos to the lighthouse or continue along the Cape Byron Walking Track, bring comfortable shoes. The views are incredible, but the path can be steep and uneven in sections.

  Bring binoculars for dolphin and whale watching
  Dolphins are often seen close to shore at Wategos, and during migration season, Cape Byron is one of the best whale-watching vantage points on the East Coast. A pair of binoculars will help you make the most of the experience.