Gather the family to find these stunning Byron Bay waterfalls
Byron Bay, Australia’s most beloved hippy town, is the ultimate holiday destination drawing in travellers from all corners of the world. With its white sandy beaches, tropical landscapes, breath-taking hinterland, lively town centre and laid back atmosphere, it’s easy to understand why.
For fun-loving families looking for a little adventure off the beaten path—Byron Bay is also home to an array of breath-taking waterfalls. So gather up the family, head into the subtropical rainforest, and take a refreshing dip with our roundup of the best waterfalls near Byron Bay.
Killen Falls
Located less than 30 minutes southeast of Byron Bay, Killen Falls is one of many stunning waterfalls that make up the greater Byron Bay area. The tranquil waterfall is one of the last remnants of the Big Scrub rainforest that once lined the Northern Rivers.
From the car park, it is a short but steep 1 km bushwalk to the base of the waterfall and back, with a 660-metre return walk to the viewing platform. While this waterfall isn’t a recommended swimming spot, it does offer a beautiful view (and photo opportunity) from the cave behind the cascading falls.
Location: Killen Falls, Killen Falls Drive, Tintenbar, NSW
Image Credit: Destination NSW
Minyon Falls
At 100 metres, Minyon Falls is one of the tallest waterfalls in the area, offering an exciting family day out while staying in Byron Bay. The falls are located amongst the wild rainforests of Nightcap National Park, with a lookout platform offering panoramic views of the impressive waterfall and valley below.
Visitors can drive to the shady picnic area or enjoy a 2-hour return bush walk through the lush rainforest. For the more adventurous, the Minyon Loop Walking Track is a 4-5 hour trek amongst the ferns and ancient trees to the base of the waterfall and back.
Location: Minyon Falls, Whian Whian, NSW, 2480
Whian Whian Falls
Whian Whian Falls is located 45 minutes inland near Nightcap National Park. This popular spot is a favourite amongst locals with its small cascading waterfall and refreshing swimming holes.
With a short 5-minute walk to the waterfall, Whian Whian is ideal for families and wild-swimming enthusiasts looking to picnic and splash about in the natural pools. If the main pool gets too busy, stroll downstream to discover a selection of smaller swimming holes.
Location: Whian Whian Falls, 112 Whian Whian Rd, Dunoon, NSW, 2480
Image Credit: Destination NSW
Protesters Falls
Protesters Falls is another Byron Bay gem nestled amongst the natural beauty of world-heritage-listed Nightcap National Park. Named after the 1979 logging protest, Protesters Falls features a serene walking track alongside a creek, beneath the Bangalow palms and through the rainforest floor to the base of the waterfall.
Protesters Falls is home to the endangered Fleay's barred frog, so swimming is sadly not permitted, but the incredible rainforest setting and waterfall are well worth the hour-long journey from Byron Bay. Make a day of it with the family with lunch at the nearby Terania Creek picnic area.
Location: Protesters Falls, Nightcap National Park, NSW, 2480
Image Credit: Destination NSW
Marom Creek Falls
Take a journey further south, and you'll stumble upon Byron Bay's best-kept secret— Marom Creek Falls. This waterfall may be located on private land and accessed through a hole in the fence, but the owner happily allows explorers to visit this legendary swimming hole.
The waterfall is a short 500-metre walk from the fence and features a swimmable stream up top and a swimming hole at the waterfall's base. The swimming hole can be accessed via a small track on the left or, if water levels permit, by taking the 10-foot leap from the top of Marom Creek Falls. With plenty of rocks and grassy patches, the falls make for the perfect secluded picnic spot.
Location: Marom Creek Falls, Dalwood Road, New South Wales, 2480
Goonengerry Falls
Journey through the magical Byron Bay hinterland to Goonengerry National Park to visit the last on our list of epic waterfalls. Pack your swimsuit for this one, as it is undoubtedly one of the best swimming spots in the area, with secluded rock pools sitting at the top of the falls with sweeping rainforest views.
For the more adventurous, head out on the challenging 10km Goonengerry Waterfall loop, popular amongst bird lovers and hikers. The loop will take you uphill through rich native bush before reaching the top of the waterfall for a well-deserved dip.
Location: Goonengerry Falls, Garrong Road, Goonengerry National Park, NSW, 2482
Where to stay in Byron Bay
From deep gorges surrounded by lush rainforest to sparkling cascades tumbling down rocky cliffs, these waterfalls near Byron Bay provide something truly unique. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing swim or a challenging hike through the rainforest, each Byron Bay waterfall offers its own special thrill.
And if you need somewhere special to stay during your exploration, Crystalbrook Byron is the perfect base. With luxury Treetop and Rainforest Suites, 5-star facilities and a prime location beside Tallow Beach, Crystalbrook Byron is the ideal setting for exploring all that Byron Bay has to offer – waterfalls included! So why not plan a visit?