Top Byron Bay Sightseeing Cruises

Embark on the only whale-watching cruise to depart from The Pass beach in Byron Bay, offering the fastest route to the path of migrating humpback whales, plus dolphins, turtles, and sea birds. Travel with a small group of no more than 12 on a vessel specially designed for marine life spotting, equipped with underwater viewing devices and a hydrophone to listen to whale songs. Whale sighting is guaranteed—if you don’t see one, take another cruise for free!

Experience the wonders of the Great Barrier Reef without having to head north with a 3-hour snorkeling experience at the Julian Rocks Marine Reserve in Byron Bay. Practice your snorkeling skills in the training pool, cruise out to Julian Rocks, then dive in to swim and snorkel amid colorful corals, tropical fish, manta rays, wobbegong sharks, and sea turtles.

Sit back, relax, and take in amazing natural scenes on this cruise on the Richmond River around Ballina Island. Just 30 minutes outside of Byron Bay (transfer not included), journey through impressive mangrove forests and see a diverse array of flora and fauna, including the chance to spot dolphins. A cold beverage and tasty snacks are also provided on board.

There’s no better way to enjoy the magnificence of Julian Rocks and Byron Bay’s pristine coastal waters than aboard our purpose-built vessel offering 360-degree views of the surrounding natural beauty and wildlife. Our Coastal Discovery Cruise will take you on a breathtaking adventure from Ballina to Byron Bay where you can encounter species such as dolphins, turtles and birdlife as we navigate our way north through the enormous Cape Byron Marine Park (which includes the Julian Rocks Marine Reserve!). Discover sheer cliffs, secluded beaches and rocky islands as you listen to live commentary by our passionate Marine Biologist. Learn about wildlife, local points of interest & history of the area as you cruise by Australia’s most Easterly point. Imagine viewing Byron Bay’s iconic Cape Byron Lighthouse from a whole new perspective! We’ll circumnavigate one of Australia’s most stunning ecological sites Julian Rocks ‘Nguthungulli’ Marine Reserve before heading back down the coast to Ballina.

Paddle your way to Australia’s easternmost point on this 3-hour sea kayaking adventure from Byron Bay, including hotel pick-up. After learning to steer your tandem kayak, set out from Clarkes Beach and enjoy waterside views of landmarks like the Byron Bay lighthouse, the Julian Rocks, Wategos millionaire row and Cape Byron. Keep a look out for dolphins, sea turtles and whales as you cruise around the bay, then cool off with a swim before heading back to shore.

Hone your surf skills with this half-day lesson in beautiful Byron Bay. Head to a beach that suits your skill level, throw on your gear—included in the lesson price—and learn basic techniques from an expert coach. Then, continue your lesson in a small-group setting with a teacher-to-student ratio of 1 to 7. If you don’t stand up by the end of the session, receive a free class.

Lose yourself in the mesmerizing landscapes of the Nightcap National Park on this half-day tour from Byron Bay. Hike through the UNESCO-listed rainforest, then cool off with a swim beneath the beautiful Minyon Falls. After refueling with a hearty BBQ lunch, get a taste of local life in the Byron Bay Hinterlands as you stop by towns and villages, including the legendary market town of Bangalow.

This adventure in the hinterland of Byron Bay gets to the Gondwana Rainforests, a UNESCO World Heritage Area. Head to lookouts and a pristine waterfall before observing glowworms at a secret location. Your tour also includes a vegetarian/vegan dinner and you leave with a greater appreciation and understanding of the Rainbow region.

Try scuba diving while in Byron Bay with a 5-hour class that includes a diving session at Julian Rocks Marine Reserve. Your diving course includes equipment hire, one lesson in the swimming pool, and a guided dive at Julian Rocks—where you can see tropical species found on the Great Barrier Reef along with marine life from the depths of Australia's Southern Ocean. Species often encountered include manta rays, turtles, blue gropers, and wobbegongs, along with an assortment of hard and soft corals.

Visit three different habitats (a eucalypt forest, rainforest, and grassland) to observe Australian wildlife in its natural habitat. Spot koalas, kangaroos, wallabies, flying foxes, birds, and more with the help of a guide. Depending on conditions, you may also see other mammals such as pademelons. Plus, the tour Includes a locally sourced picnic in the rainforest.

Take a break from the beach and discover two of Byron Bay’s most popular attractions – Cape Bryon Lighthouse and Crystal Castle – on this half-day tour. First, climb to the top of the Cape Bryon Lighthouse, where you can take in magnificent views from Australia’s easternmost point and spot humpback whales along the coast (depending on the season). Then, be dazzled by the exquisite gardens and gigantic crystals on display at the Crystal Castle, before continuing to lively Bangalow for lunch (included).

Experience the wonders of the Great Barrier Reef without having to head north with a 3-hour scuba diving experience at the Julian Rocks Marine Reserve in Byron Bay. Suitable only for certified divers, this diving adventure will bring you closer to the reserve’s vibrant corals and marine life, with the chance to spot manta rays, wobbegong sharks, sea turtles, and over 400 species of fish.