Minyon Falls
Nightcap National Park, Byron Bay, New South Wales, 2480
Tumbling 330 feet (100 meters) over a sheer cliff surrounded by ancient rainforest, the spectacular Minyon Falls is a highlight of Byron Bay’s hinterland and the epicenter of Nightcap National Park. When conditions allow, you can swim in the plunge pool at the base of the falls or admire them from the Minyon Falls Lookout up top.
The basics
Almost everyone visits Minyon Falls from Byron Bay. You can access the falls from two areas: the Minyon Falls Lookout is a modern platform by the top of the falls, while the quieter Minyon Grass picnic area sits near the base of the falls. The Minyon Falls Walking Track connects the two sites and continues into the rainforest. If you don’t fancy self-driving or prefer to hike with a guide, several Byron Bay hinterland tours visit the falls.
Things to know before you go
Minyon Falls is a great choice for photographers and nature lovers.
Wear a hat, sunscreen, and sturdy, closed-toe shoes if you plan on hiking the Minyon Falls Walking Track.
Bring drinking water and anything you’d like to eat.
There's no charge to visit the falls.
If you just want to admire the view and grab some shots, 15 minutes at Minyon Falls Lookout is enough. Hiking the Minyon Falls Walking Track loop takes around half a day.
Minyon Falls Lookout and Minyon Grass have accessible parking and picnicking, wheelchair-friendly bathrooms. Minyon Fall also has barrier-free access to the lookout itself.
How to get there
Minyon Falls is in Nightcap National Park, about a 25-mile (40-kilometer) drive inland from Byron Bay, via the Coolamon Scenic Drive. You might want to budget time for some extra stops if driving—the road is as scenic as its name suggests. There’s no public transit, so you’ll need to self-drive or join a tour.
When to get there
Weather is the key to experiencing Minyon Falls. At dry times of year (August and September) or when there hasn’t been rain for a while, the falls can slow to an underwhelming trickle; after heavy rain, the force of the water can be too much to approach the base of the falls.
Things to do in Byron Bay’s hinterland
Nightcap National Park is home to roaring waterfalls, glow-worm caves, and UNESCO World Heritage–listed rainforest—it’s one of about 50 different areas protected under the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia designation. But there’s more to Byron Bay’s hinterland than nature alone. Nimbin and Mullumbimby compete for the title of epicenter of Australia’s hippie movement; the village of Federal is home to the Crystal Castle & Shambhala Gardens; while historic small towns like Bangalow beckon travelers.
Travel Like an Expert with AAA and Trip Canvas
Get Ideas from the Pros
As one of the largest travel agencies in North America, we have a wealth of recommendations to share! Browse our articles and videos for inspiration, or dive right in with preplanned AAA Road Trips, cruises and vacation tours.
Build and Research Your Options
Save and organize every aspect of your trip including cruises, hotels, activities, transportation and more. Book hotels confidently using our AAA Diamond Designations and verified reviews.
Book Everything in One Place
From cruises to day tours, buy all parts of your vacation in one transaction, or work with our nationwide network of AAA Travel Agents to secure the trip of your dreams!