Family-friendly walks in Byron Bay and Brunswick Heads

Looking to stretch little legs while soaking up some of the best scenery in the Northern Rivers? From coastal paths with ocean views and shady rainforest tracks to riverside strolls, these family-friendly walks in Byron Bay and Brunswick Heads are perfect for exploring with kids at your own pace.

Here are some of the best family-friendly walking trails in the Northern Rivers, NSW, to add to your itinerary:

Walgun Cape Byron Walking Track, Byron Bay

If there’s one walk to add to your list, this is it. The Walgun Cape Byron Walking Track is one of the most iconic coastal walks in Australia, offering sweeping ocean views, rainforest pockets and a stop at Australia’s most easterly point.

What to expect:

• A mix of paved paths, boardwalks and some stairs
• Plenty of places to stop and rest
• Iconic lighthouse views

Hot tip: Start from Wategos Beach for a gentler approach with kids. The walk between Clarkes Beach and The Pass is easy, open and ideal for little ones who like to move at their own pace. There are lots of spots to pause, snack and take in the view (or spot dolphins and whales in season). If you make it as far as the lighthouse, it's an epic spot for an ice cream.

Three Sisters track, Broken Head Nature Reserve

Just a short drive south of Byron Bay, this peaceful track offers a quieter alternative to the busier coastal walks. The Three Sisters Track winds through coastal rainforest before opening up to a stunning lookout.

What to expect:

• Shaded rainforest sections
• A manageable distance for kids
• A scenic lookout at the end

Hot tip: Go early in the day for a cooler walk and fewer crowds, and bring sturdy shoes as the track is short but can be uneven in parts, especially after rain.

Brunswick Heads River Walks (multiple easy options), Brunswick Heads

Brunswick Heads is known for its laid-back charm, and one of the best ways to experience it is on foot. Rather than a single trail, there are several easy riverside walks that follow the Brunswick River, offering a mix of beach access, shady paths and peaceful water views.

Torakina Park to the Breakwall, Brunswick Heads

One of the most popular family-friendly walks in Brunswick Heads, the breakwall walk starts near the road bridge and winds past Torakina Park before following the rock wall out towards the ocean.

What to expect:

• Flat, easy path
• Ocean views towards Cape Byron Lighthouse
• Lots to see along the river mouth

Hot tip: Start at Torakina Park so you can combine the walk with a swim or play at the beach — it’s an easy way to break things up for younger kids.

Brunswick Heads River walk, Brunswick Heads

This gentle riverside walk follows the edge of the Brunswick River, passing small beaches, open grassy areas and the boat harbour.

What to expect:

• Flat, accessible path
• Calm water and sandy spots
• Easy to shorten or extend

Hot tip: This is a great option for younger kids — there are plenty of natural stopping points for a snack, paddle or play along the way.

Under the bridge boardwalk, Brunswick Heads

A newer addition to the area, this boardwalk connects bushland and reserves via a smooth, easy path under the highway.

What to expect:

• Smooth boardwalk track
• Short, contained route
• A slightly different perspective of the river

Hot tip: Bring a pram or scooter — the boardwalk surface makes this one of the most accessible walks in Brunswick Heads.

Simpson’s Creek walk, Brunswick Heads

This peaceful, shaded walk meanders along Simpson’s Creek, offering a quieter alternative to the more popular riverside tracks.

What to expect:

• Shady, tree-lined path
• Calm creekside setting
• Opportunities to spot wildlife

Hot tip: Ideal for a slower-paced walk or when you’re looking for a bit of shade on a warmer day.

North Beach walks, Brunswick Heads

Located on the northern side of the river, these short tracks lead through coastal rainforest to the river mouth, ocean beach and mangrove-lined creeks.

What to expect:

• Short, nature-based tracks
• Beach and river access
• A mix of rainforest and coastal scenery

Hot tip: Pack swimmers — the calm water at the river mouth is perfect for a post-walk dip.

North Head Walking Track, Brunswick Heads

Tucked within Brunswick Heads Nature Reserve, the North Head Walking Track is ideal for a quick nature fix. The trail winds through coastal vegetation before opening up to river and ocean views.

What to expect:

• A short and easy loop
• Natural bushland surroundings
• Occasional wildlife spotting

Hot tip: This is a great option on warmer days thanks to the shade — keep an eye out for wildlife along the way to keep little walkers engaged.

Minyon Falls lookout walk, Nightcap National Park

For a taste of the hinterland, Minyon Falls is one of the best short walks in the Northern Rivers. Around 45 minutes from Byron Bay, the lookout walk is an easy, family-friendly option that leads to a spectacular waterfall view.

What to expect:

• A short, accessible walk
• Picnic areas nearby
• A dramatic waterfall view

Hot tip: Stick to the lookout track with kids rather than attempting the full base walk, so you'll still get to appreciate the wow factor.

Explore at your own pace

One of the best things about these family-friendly walks in Byron Bay and Brunswick Heads is how easy it is to take things slow. These trails aren’t about ticking off kilometres, they’re about getting outside, soaking up the scenery and enjoying time together.

If you’re after something more challenging, explore our guides to walks and hikes in Byron Bay and walks and hikes in Brunswick Heads.