Wander Byron - Byron Bay, New South Wales

miranda B.

The guided sunrise walk to the lighthouse was the best experience- the walk, scenery and yummy treats. Millsy was an amazing guide, patient, knowledgeable and friendly. We would definitely recommend. Thank you!

Peter V.

Millsy was punctual, courteous, considerate, highly informative and easy to talk to. This experience could not have been any better. 10/10!!!

Philip L.

Awesome and wonderful way to start the day!

The tour started an hour before sunrise in the carpark of The Pass with a quick briefing of what to expect, and a cup of an Ayurvedic tonic that warmed us up and got us ready for the climb ahead.

It was still dark and quiet all around but for the boom and crash of nearby surf when we started off up the Cape Byron Walking Track. Unfortunately, at the time we went, the upper section of the track had been closed. But our guide knew an alternate route to get us to the lighthouse.

Along the way, we stopped off at the Tallow Ridge Hand Gliding Launch Site and took in the panoramic view of the entire length of Tallow Beach stretching to the south. As we neared the lighthouse, and dawn, we could see the scenery lighten up all around us, the birds starting to chirp and twitter.

The climb is moderate, very manageable for those in normal states of health. We got to the lighthouse in good time to see the sun peep over the horizon and cast its golden rays into our faces.

Our guide led us through a series of yoga asanas (an abbreviated sun salutation) and breathwork, to fully take in this place (here) and this moment (now).

The benefits of watching the sunrise include promoting a healthy circadian rhythm (resetting it for us city folks) leading to better sleep patterns and more restful sleep, elevates mood, reduces stress and anxiety and fosters the experience of awe. Some even say the colours of sunlight at rise are especially helpful for activating the pineal gland (some call it the 'third eye') - a portal to divine wisdom. I'm not sure if I got wiser on this occasion, but chatting with our guide, who's witnessed the sunrise through the seasons, I came away imbued with a sense of faith and optimism, that everything's going to be all right. Though we traverse a period of darkness in every 24-hour cycle, and at various times in our lives, light comes again, time after time, with every sunrise. As it did this glorious morning.

As the sun rose further above the horizon, we made our way down. Along the way, we caught glimpses of spouts in the water, indicative of whales on their northern migration. If one is lucky, one may also see dolphins and turtles in the crystal-clear waters. We slowly made our way back to the starting point, taking in stories about Julian Rocks, or Nguthungulli to the Bundjalung of Byron Bay (Arakwal) people.

If watching a sunrise from the most easterly point of the Australian mainland is on your bucket list, then you should seriously consider Wander Byron. Save time by being guided up trails and tracks in the pre-dawn darkness by an experienced and accredited guide who knows the area, avoid the stress and anxiety of wondering if you'll make it to the lighthouse in time for the sunrise, and share in this life-affirming and health-invigorating experience with like-minded fellow travellers.

Belinda P. (.

Thoroughly enjoyed the sunrise walk with milsy. He is super friendly and knowledgeable. The walk itself guarantees stunning views and is very accessible. Watching the sunrise was extra special and also very peaceful

Viv P.

Awesome view was very windy but well worth the walk to view.

Julie B.

What a remarkable tour of the lighthouse. Tour guide Millsy had an outstanding knowledge of the area and was enlightening. Breathwork and yoga during sunrise brought wholeness and inner peace. A truly magical experience. A must do while here 💖

Maggie L.

You really need some efforts to be there! All steep steps going down and then all the way climbing back up!

Emma M.

Fabulous way to visit the iconic lighthouse at dawn. Mark is very knowledgeable about the local area and shares the benefits of waking up early and catching the sunrise. A beautiful walk, with ample photo opportunities. I learnt a lot and would recommend this tour to anyone wanting to maximise their time in Byron Bay. Loved the delicious elixir he shared to help wake us up without the need for caffeine!