Arakwal National Park National Park

Address: Arakwal National Park, Byron Bay region, New South Wales, Australia

Website: https://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/parks/araluen-national-park

Hours: Dawn-dusk (typical NSW national park open hours)

Admission: Free (park access)

Arakwal National Park is a small coastal national park in New South Wales that protects dunes, coastal wetlands and vestiges of littoral rainforest near the Byron Bay area. It was established to conserve coastal ecosystems and Aboriginal cultural values.

The park is notable for being managed in partnership with the Arakwal Aboriginal people, incorporating cultural heritage and traditional knowledge into on-ground management. Recreational use is limited to low-impact activities such as walking and birdwatching.

The park lies on the central coast of the Byron Bay region, adjacent to developed coastal areas and beaches, and is accessible from nearby townships and coastal roads.

• Co-management and habitats: The park is jointly managed with the local Arakwal Aboriginal community under a cultural agreement that recognizes traditional ownership and stewardship values. Coastal dune habitats and remnant littoral rainforest patches are key conservation features.

Arakwal National Park is adjacent to Byron Bay township on the north coast of New South Wales. From Byron Bay centre it is a short walk or drive to park entrances at main beaches and headlands. Local buses and taxis serve the town.

• Observe Aboriginal cultural protocols-this park is jointly managed with the Arakwal people; respect signage and cultural sites.
• Access the coastal walking routes from Byron Bay township (Arakwal National Park borders the town's main beaches).
• Visit Broken Head and Cape Byron for short walks that offer much wildlife viewing and dramatic coastal scenery.