Exploring Far North Coast hinterland: a perfect day trip from Byron Bay

Holidaying on the Far North Coast and looking for an easy day trip from Byron Bay, Brunswick Heads, Lennox Head or Ballina? The Hinterland of the Far North Coast is so completely different to the coast that it's definitely a must!

Think winding country roads, lush rainforest walks, charming villages and plenty of good food along the way, which are all included in this stunning region.

Here’s our take on exploring this region at an easy pace, whether you're a family, couple, or exploring solo.

Scenic hinterland drives from the coast

One of the best things to do in the Far North Coast hinterland is simply drive. These scenic routes are ideal for half-day or full-day trips, with plenty of places to stop along the way.

Ballina or Lennox Head to Bangalow via Newrybar

A gentle and scenic inland drive with rolling farmland, historic village, great spots to stop for a bite, and so easy to pitstop when something strikes your fancy.

• Easy and relaxed, perfect for a first hinterland visit
• Great for lunch, shopping and coffee stops
• Family-friendly: short drives, easy parking and plenty of open spaces

Brunswick Heads to The Channon

A lush drive through rainforest and small communities, with creeks, markets and walking trails nearby.

• Ideal if you’re visiting Protesters Falls or The Channon markets
• Feels remote but is surprisingly close to the coast
• Family-friendly: combine with a short walk or picnic

Lismore to Nightcap National Park

A beautiful drive into cooler rainforest country, best known for waterfalls and bushwalking.

• Best for nature lovers and photographers
• Ideal on warmer days when the coast feels hot
• Best for older kids who enjoy walking tracks

Waterfalls and walking trails

The Far North Coast hinterland is home to some of the region’s most memorable nature experiences. Many walks can be done as part of a day trip from Byron Bay, with options for all fitness levels.

• Minyon Falls (Nightcap National Park) - With easy access to the main lookout, this is one of the most impressive waterfalls in the region, plunging more than 100 metres into the valley below.
• Killen Falls (near Tintenbar) - A popular and accessible waterfall close to Ballina and Lennox Head, with a short track to the lookout and a steeper track to the base for confident walkers
• Protesters Falls (near The Channon) - One of the most approachable waterfall walks in the region, this waterfall is a gentle rainforest walk following a creek through lush forest, on a flat, shaded walking trail
• Other great walking areas include Victoria Park Nature Reserve and Goonengerry National Park - find out more about waterfalls near Byron Bay here

Hinterland towns worth exploring

Small towns are at the heart of the Far North Coast hinterland, each with its own feel and pace.

Newrybar

Charming and compact, Newrybar is known for heritage buildings, boutique shopping and excellent food.

• Ideal for morning coffee or lunch
• Easy driving distance from Lennox Head or Ballina
• Family-friendly: flat streets and casual dining

Bangalow

One of the best-known hinterland towns, full of character and colour.

• Historic streets, bookshops and homewares
• Plenty of cafés and bakeries
• Family-friendly: good food options and relaxed atmosphere

The Channon

Creative, alternative and community-focused.

• Best known for its monthly markets
• A slower, more eclectic pace
• Family-friendly on market days, with space to roam

Alstonville and Rous

Set among rolling farmland with strong agricultural roots.

• Great for produce stops and scenic views
• Less busy, more local
• Family-friendly for a quieter stop

Lookouts and scenic stops

The hinterland offers plenty of quiet places to pull over and take in the views — perfect for stretching your legs during a day trip.

• Minyon Falls lookout – sweeping rainforest views
• Booyong lookout (near Alstonville) – farmland and ocean glimpses
• Nightcap National Park lookouts – peaceful and uncrowded

Where to eat, drink and taste the hinterland

A hinterland day trip pairs perfectly with good food and drink, especially when it’s grown or made nearby.

Cafés, bakeries and long lunches

• Harvest Newrybar
• Cafés along Byron Street in Bangalow
• Small village bakeries are dotted throughout the hinterland

Family-friendly tip: Many cafés have outdoor seating and space for kids to move around.

Breweries and distilleries

• Hinterland breweries around Bangalow and Newrybar
• Relaxed venues with outdoor seating and casual menus

Best suited to adults, though many have family-friendly outdoor areas.

Honey tasting and local treats

• Honey tasting rooms near Bangalow and Newrybar
• Farm shops selling raw honey, beeswax products and local produce

Great for families — quick, hands-on and easy to combine with other stops.

Fruit picking and farm experiences

Depending on the season, you may find:

• Strawberries
• Blueberries
• Citrus

Always check opening times before you go, but fruit picking is a standout family activity when available.

Farm gates and roadside stalls

• Fresh fruit and vegetables around Alstonville and Rous
• Macadamia farms sell nuts and oils
• Honesty-box stalls with flowers, eggs and avocados

Perfect for picnic supplies or edible souvenirs.

Art galleries and creative spaces

Some of the best and most creative hinterland experiences are discovered as you go.

Art galleries and studios

• Independent galleries in Bangalow
• Community art spaces near The Channon
• Open studios during market days and events

A perfect addition to your coastal holiday

One of the best things about staying on the Far North Coast is having both the beach and the hinterland so close. You can swim in the ocean in the morning, wander rainforest trails by lunchtime and be back at your coastal accommodation by sunset.

Wherever you are staying on the coast, the NSW Byron Bay hinterland is right on your doorstep.