Guide to Pat Morton Lookout

Most people visit Pat Morton Lookout for the view, and fair enough. From this headland, you get sweeping vistas of the ocean and coastline in both directions. It’s one of the best places in Lennox Head to see the natural drama of the area up close: steep cliffs, shifting light, and long, empty beaches stretching north to Broken Head. 

From May to October, it’s also one of the top spots for whale watching in northern NSW. You’ll often see humpbacks breaching offshore or pods of dolphins surfing the waves below. On calmer days, the lookout is dotted with locals and visitors taking in the view, while on breezier ones, you’ll spot hang gliders launching into the sky. 

The lookout also connects to the Lennox Head Boardwalk, a short, scenic trail that runs along the coast towards Lake Ainsworth. It’s an easy and beautiful way to extend your visit, giving you new angles of the coastline as you walk. 

How long should I spend at Pat Morton Lookout? 

If you’re on a tight schedule, 30–45 minutes is enough to walk up, take in the view, and grab a few of those iconic Pat Morton lookout photos. But if you have the time, an hour or two is worth it. You can wander part of the coastal walk, spot a few whales, or just sit and take it all in. 

Sunrise is especially worth an early start as the headland catches the first light of the day, and watching the sun rise over the Pacific is a pretty unforgettable sight. Sunset, on the other hand, brings a softer mood. The cliffs and ocean glow gold, and the day winds down in that unhurried, coastal way Lennox is known for. 

How to get to Pat Morton Lookout

From Lennox Head town centre: The lookout is only a couple of minutes south along The Coast Road. Follow Pacific Parade until you see signs for Pat Morton Lookout. The small car park is right at the top of the hill. 

From Byron Bay: It’s an easy 20-minute drive (around 20 km) south via Broken Head Road and Byron Bay Road. Turn left into Lennox Head, then follow the signs to the lookout. 

From Ballina: Head north along The Coast Road, the drive takes about 10 minutes and runs right alongside the ocean, making it a lovely scenic route. 

Best time to visit Pat Morton Lookout

Best time of year to visit: You can visit Pat Morton Lookout year-round, but May to October is the best window for whale watching. Summer brings warm days and steady sea breezes, perfect for beach walks, while winter is crisp, clear, and far less humid, which is great for hiking or photography. 

Best time of the day to visit: Early morning and late afternoon are hard to beat. Sunrise can be particularly beautiful, offering views without the crowds, while sunset brings a calm glow over the cliffs and ocean, but you may have to contend with other travellers. If you visit in the middle of the day, bring a hat and water, as there’s not much shade at the top. 

Weather at Pat Morton Lookout

Lennox Head has a mild, subtropical climate, which means Pat Morton Lookout is comfortable to visit almost any time of year. Summer (December–February) sees temperatures between 25–30°C with a mix of sunshine and sea breeze. Autumn and spring are slightly cooler, usually sitting around 22–27°C, with clear skies and low humidity, perfect for walking. Winter (June–August) brings mild days around 20–22°C, making it the best season for spotting whales just offshore. Even on cloudy days, the lookout is impressive; the moody light and rolling surf give the coastline a completely different, dramatic feel. 

Best place to park your campervan at Pat Morton Lookout

If you’re visiting in a campervan, Reflections Lennox Head is a fantastic place to stay in town. It’s only 3 km north of the lookout and offers powered sites, modern facilities, and direct access to the beach. From there, it’s an easy drive or a scenic coastal walk if you feel like stretching your legs.