A nature lover’s guide to things to do in Nimbin and the Byron Bay hinterland

This post contains affiliate links. I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. More information.

Have you had enough of Byron Bay? That might sound impossible with the beautiful beaches, but if you’re keen to explore somewhere different, the Byron Bay hinterland is the perfect escape. Just 1.5 hours inland, you’ll find Nimbin – a quirky village with a reputation for cannabis but also surrounded by waterfalls, volcanic rocks, and even platypus habitats. Here’s my guide to the best things to do in Nimbin and the surrounding hinterland if you love nature as much as I do.

Nimbin: an Australian village with character

Nimbin is often called Australia’s cannabis capital, and it certainly embraces that reputation. Bright murals, rainbows, and marijuana leaves decorate most of the main street. Let’s be honest: cannabis is mostly what brings tourists to the village. Even if you’re not into smoking, the colourful buildings make it worth a short detour.

What really makes Nimbin interesting for me is its alternative history. After the dairy industry collapsed in the 1970s, hippie communities moved in, buying cheap land and creating villages around sustainability and freedom. These communities still exist today, and I wish more information was shared about their sustainable lifestyle. You can learn more at Djanbung Gardens – a permaculture education centre.

I found the town itself a bit commercial, but the surrounding region is where Nimbin really shines for nature lovers.

Nimbin Rocks

On the way into town, keep an eye out for Nimbin Rocks, the striking volcanic formations left from the ancient Wollumbin (Mount Warning) volcano. You can’t access them directly as they hold cultural significance for Aboriginal communities, but you can stop on the roadside for photos.

Things to do near Nimbin: waterfalls

The Byron hinterland is full of lush rainforest and a few waterfalls. These two can be combined with a visit to Nimbin:

Protesters Falls

Located in Nightcap National Park, these falls are reached via a 15-minute rainforest walk. The track is short but beautiful, and the waterfall is impressive. You can extend your visit with longer hikes in the park.

Minyon Falls

Probably the most famous waterfall in the region, Minyon Falls is less than an hour from Byron Bay. From the lookout near the car park, you can admire the falls from above, or take the four-hour return hike down to the base for a refreshing swim.

Spot a platypus near Nimbin

One of the most unique things to do in the Nimbin region is to try spotting a platypus. At Rocky Creek Dam, there’s a dedicated platypus viewing platform where you may have a chance to see them at dawn or dusk.

We weren’t lucky on our visit – the gate was closed for construction and we had no sightings from further downstream – but we’d love to try again. If you’re serious about seeing one, local tours from Byron Bay can increase your chances. If you wonder where to see a platypus and what to look for when you’re looking for a platypus, read this! You can also increase your chances by joining a local local tour from Byron Bay , as the guide will know about the area!

Tip: If you’re going by yourself, book a campsite nearby (we recommend Hipcamp) so you can head out just before dark or early in the morning when platypuses are most active.

If you’re new to Hipcamp, here’s a coupon code that will give you (and me!) $10 credit for your first stay: ELOISET668EFD.

Visit local markets in the Byron Bay hinterland

If your visit to Nimbin falls on the right weekend, don’t miss the local markets for fresh produce, crafts, and live music:

• Nimbin Market – every 4th and 5th Sunday
• The Channon Craft Market – 2nd Sunday of every month
• Bangalow Market – 4th Sunday of the month

What are your favourite things to do in Nimbin? Share your experience in the comments below!

Is Nimbin worth visiting? My take.

I wouldn’t drive all the way to Nimbin just for the main street. I don’t smoke, and I don’t like cannabis. But when combined with the waterfalls and nature stops in the hinterland, it’s definitely worth the trip. For me, the highlights weren’t the colourful cannabis shops, but the interesting rocks and the rainforest walks to reach waterfalls.

Where are these things to do in the Nimbin Region?

Nimbin is in northern New South Wales, about a 1.5-hour drive from Byron Bay or 2.5 hours from Brisbane. It makes for an easy day trip if you have a car, but staying overnight in the hinterland gives you more time to explore.