Arakwal National Park, Nature reserve in Byron Shire Council, Australia

Arakwal National Park is a national park immediately south of Cape Byron, the most easterly point of mainland Australia, about 624 km north of Sydney. It protects Wallum country of coastal clay heaths between the town of Byron Bay and east-facing Tallow Beach, where sandy beaches run for 3 kilometres.

The protected area was established in 2001 through a land agreement between the New South Wales government and the Arakwal Aboriginal Community. This agreement marked a significant step in recognizing the Bundjalung People's rights and knowledge in managing their traditional coastal lands.

The Bundjalung People maintain a strong connection to this coastal land and hold important roles in making decisions about how the park is managed. Their involvement reflects the deep relationship between this community and the environment they have inhabited for generations.

The beach is accessible for swimming, surfing, and fishing, while the coastal waters offer good opportunities for whale watching. Time your visit according to the season, as whales pass along the coast during specific periods.

The area contains specialized habitats where several rare native frog species depend on the particular conditions found here. These amphibians are tied to the specific features of the Wallum landscape, making this coastal strip an important refuge for their survival.