After calling Byron Bay my home for over 2 years, and having family living in the area (some who have lived here since the ’70s), it’s fair to say that I know Byron Bay very well. This small corner of the world has changed my life in so many ways, and I’m so excited to share this blog post on things to do in Byron Bay, so that you can experience this magical place yourself.
Byron Bay has some of the best beaches in the country, world-renowned surf, chilled-out hippie vibes and scenery that will take your breath away. Life just seems to slow down in Byron, and people focus on spending more time in nature. The vibe and blissful energy here is contagious and darn right addicting. It causes some visitors to come back every year, and others (like myself) to never want to leave. If there is one place in the world everyone should visit once in their lifetime, it’s Byron Bay.
To make this post more useful for you, I have broken these Byron Bay experiences into different categories. Scroll through the post to find what piques your interest, or expand the Table of Contents and click on the section that interests you most.
What to Know Before You Go to Byron Bay, Australia
Where is Byron Bay:
Byron Bay is the most eastern point in Australia, located at the top of NSW. It’s about an 8-hour drive to Sydney and a 2.5-hour drive to Brisbane to give you perspective.
Best Time to Visit:
With a small population of just 30,000 in Byron Bay, this trendy surf town draws in a shocking 2 million international tourists per year! It’s clear Byron Bay has made an everlasting impression on its visitors, and now it’s one of the most popular places to visit in Australia, which can be seen as a positive and a negative. Byron Bay has a bad reputation for being packed with tourists. Although this is true, it shouldn’t stop you from seeing this incredible destination, as I believe, it’s still worth the hype! To help you plan your trip, here are the low and high seasons of the year.
February to November are the best months to visit! Unfortunately, December and January can be hot, muggy, and crowded with visitors for the holidays. Another time to avoid is the week around the Easter holidays, as school is out, and many people flood Byron for the holidays. These peak tourist seasons cause ridiculous traffic, packed beaches, booked-out restaurants and more expensive accommodation, all of which can take away from your experience.
Depending on what you want to see and do, all the other months of the year are a great time to visit. Even the winter months (June-August) are sunny and warm (highs of 27°C). Plus, the humpback whales arrive in the winter months, with almost guaranteed sightings from the lighthouse.
How to Get to Byron Bay:
Because Byron Bay is a smaller city, there isn’t an international airport close by. To get here, take a domestic flight to either Ballina Airport (30 minutes away) or the Gold Coast Airport (1 hour away). From here, you can grab an Uber, or a shuttle bus since they are cheaper and just as fast. From Ballina, you can also catch a public bus that goes into the center of town.
Getting Around Byron Bay:
Since Byron Bay is a small town, it’s super easy to walk around; however, if you want to explore the surrounding beaches and villages, I recommend renting a car. There are buses, but they don’t run frequently. Also, depending on where you are staying, some accommodations offer bicycle rentals.
How Long Do You Need Here:
A three-day weekend is an absolute minimum. After living here for a year and a half, I can attest that you could spend years here and never get bored. And that’s coming from a big city girl! So many people visit Byron Bay and never leave. Once you experience the magic that is Byron Bay, you will understand what I mean.
Save Money with This Tip:
In Australia, all our tips are already included in the price of the bill or experience. So if you go to a restaurant, or take a surf lesson, the prices are as stated. There is no need to tip extra for good service, like we do in North America.
Where to Stay in Byron Bay?
In Byron Bay, accommodations embody the eclectic and laid-back vibe that characterizes the town itself. From bohemian-inspired beachside bungalows to upscale boutique hotels, the options cater to a diverse range of tastes and preferences. Visitors can immerse themselves in the relaxed coastal lifestyle by opting for beachfront cottages or eco-friendly lodges nestled amidst lush rainforest settings.
For those seeking a social atmosphere, backpacker hostels and communal guesthouses provide opportunities to connect with fellow travellers and partake in group activities. Additionally, boutique hotels and luxury resorts offer indulgent amenities and personalized service, ensuring a comfortable and memorable stay in this idyllic seaside town. With accommodations that reflect the unique charm and ambiance of Byron Bay, visitors can truly experience the essence of coastal living during their stay.
Here are some places where I have personally stayed, and others where friends or family stayed and recommend.
Luxury Accommodation in Byron Bay
- Elements of Byron – Beside the beach, incredible pool, and beside the trendy industrial area.
- Crystalbrook Byron – The original luxury hotel in Byron. Surrounded by a rainforest, but outside of town.
- The CAPE at Wategos – Located near our favourite beach in Byron, Wategos. However, it is about a 20-minute uphill walk to town if you don’t have a car.
- Waves Byron Bay – Right across the street from Main Beach, and some rooms have ocean views.
Boutique Stays in Byron Bay
- The Bower Byron Bay – Trendy modern decor with a pool. Beside a great cafe (The General Store), and walking distance to town.
- Atlantic Byron Bay -In the center of town, great pool, and laid-back decor that reflects the Byron vibe.
- The Lord Byron – In town, close to all the restaurants and shops. About a 15-minute walk to the beach. Also has a pool.
Budget-Friendly Accommodation Options in Byron Bay
- Wake Up! Byron Bay – awesome pool, across from the beach, and free bikes to ride into town.
- The Surf House – Great location in town, private rooms with common areas that create a social vibe to make friends.
- YHA Byron Bay – the first place I ever stayed in Byron. Good vibe hostel in the center of town.
What to Do in Byron Bay, Australia
Now that you know where to stay in Byron Bay, let’s dive into things to do in this vibrant coastal town. Byron Bay offers a treasure trove of activities and attractions that cater to a wide range of interests and preferences. From its world-renowned surf breaks and pristine beaches to its lush hinterland and eclectic arts scene, Byron Bay beckons visitors with endless opportunities for adventure, relaxation, and exploration.
Whether you’re seeking adrenaline-pumping water sports, tranquil nature escapes, lively cultural experiences, or simply the chance to unwind and soak in the laid-back atmosphere, Byron Bay promises an unforgettable getaway filled with diverse and enriching experiences. Let’s delve into the myriad delights that await you in this iconic Australian destination.
1. Watch a Sunrise at the Cape Byron Lighthouse
If you read Trip Advisor or any blog on what to do in Byron Bay, you will see the #1 suggestion is to visit the Cape Byron Lighthouse. And for a good reason! The Cape Byron Lighthouse is the most easterly point in Australia, and therefore, it’s the first place to see the sunrise in the country. If you can brave the early wake-up call, come up here to watch the sunrise at least once during your stay.
Plus, the views up here are sensational. On either side of the cape, you can see all of Byron Bay’s beaches and the open ocean stretching all the way to Chile. Most days, visitors can see whales, dolphins, turtles and sometimes sharks from up here (I’ve witnessed all of the above). Up here, you will also find a small museum and cafe to rest and read more about the lighthouse’s history.
2. Walk the Cape Byron Lighthouse Loop
In addition to visiting the Cape Byron Lighthouse, I highly recommend walking the scenic loop that connects the town center to the lighthouse. Most don’t know the local route, so I’ll fill you in. My favourite time to start this walk is an hour before sunset.
Starting at the Captain Cook Parking Lot, walk up Lee La Road to start the Tallows Ridge Track. This lesser-known trail will take you past a Tallows Beach lookout to the Cape Byron Lighthouse. After enjoying the Lighthouse, walk down the stairs towards Wategos. On your way back, you should get an incredible view of Wategos and the sunset. Be sure to stick to the path and not walk along the narrow roads.
3. Learn to Surf with Let’s Go Surfing!
Byron Bay is known for its waves and laid-back surfing culture. If there is one place in the world where you should learn to surf (or brush up on your skills), make it, Byron!
I originally learned how to surf in Canada, back in my high school days, so I booked a semi-private lesson with Let’s Go Surfing to improve my skills. After two classes, I noticed a significant improvement in my surfing skills, and I felt way more comfortable going after bigger waves! Jake, our instructor, was so friendly and made the whole experience fun.
Price: About $70 per person (and as I mentioned earlier, no need to tip).
4. Kayak to see Dolphins & Whales
Jump on this 3-hour kayaking tour to get up close and personal with dolphins, humpback whales and other marine life that frequent the area. The knowledgeable staff will also share stories and information about marine life, Aboriginal people, and local history.
5. Whale Watching Tour
In the winter months (May-September), Humpback whales migrate from Antarctica to Cairns to have their babies. Along the way, they stop by Byron Bay to feed, rest and play! It’s easy to spot these massive creatures from the beach, and you can sometimes hear them underwater when you swim (try it!). But there’s nothing quite like seeing the giant humpback whales up close. Join this whale-watching tour to see them up close. This is one experience you’ll never forget!
6. Snorkel with Turtles & (Friendly) Sharks
Believe it or not, there is incredible snorkelling right in Byron Bay! It’s so good that we make a point of going every week. If you swim straight out from The Pass beach, you’ll find ‘Little Reef’ and ‘Middle Reef,’ which is out in the middle of the bay. Here, you can see an endless amount of fish, turtles, stingrays, leopard sharks, wobbegongs, squid, giant crayfish (lobsters), coral and more!
Warning: You have to be a strong and confident swimmer to reach these reefs. Do not attempt if you fear open water!
If you are not a confident swimmer or like to swim closer to shore, there are times of the year, when there is a fantastic lagoon off Clarks Beach to snorkel. We went there in November 2020 and saw over ten large turtles! Unfortunately, with recent storms and king tides, this lagoon has been swept away, but it’s just a matter of time before it’s back.
7. Snorkel or Scuba Dive at Julian Rocks
If you want more of an adventure, be sure to snorkel or scuba dive at Julian Rocks Marine Reserve on a boat tour. Out here, marine life is abundant. Divers have spotted manta rays, hammerhead sharks, leopard sharks, turtles, and so much other marine life, it kind of feels like a Planet Earth episode!
8. Savor Every Sunset
This is such a simple pleasure, but one of our favourite things to do in Byron Bay is enjoy a sunset. We usually head to Little Wategos, the Pass, Cape Byron Lighthouse or Main Beach with some cold bevies and relax with friends to take it all in.
Bonus: Pack a picnic, and sit out after to watch the stars come out!
9. See Byron Bay from a Hot Air Balloon
Experience Byron Bay’s unparalleled beauty from new heights as you embark on a breathtaking hot air balloon ride at sunrise. Drift gently above the verdant hinterland and golden beaches as the morning sun casts its ethereal glow across the landscape. As you descend, continue your journey to The Farm, where Three Blue Ducks awaits with a delectable breakfast spread. Indulge in farm-to-table delights amidst rustic charm, savoring locally sourced ingredients and artisanal flavors that perfectly complement the enchanting serenity of your sunrise adventure.
10. Good Old Fashion Fun: Lawn Bowling
Looking for a Social Activity? Head to the Byron Bay or Bangalow Lawn Bowling Club. Here you can order some cold froths (beers) or other drinks to enjoy over a friendly game of lawn bowling.
Never played? Ask the staff, and they’ll be happy to give you a quick lesson. Also, in my opinion, the Bangalow Club has much better food if you want to eat before/after your game.
Best Beaches to Visit in Byron Bay
Nestled along Australia’s stunning coastline, Byron Bay boasts an array of pristine beaches, each offering its own unique charm and allure. From the world-renowned surf breaks of The Pass and Wategos Beach to the tranquil shores of Belongil Beach, there’s a coastal haven to suit every visitor’s preference. Whether you’re seeking exhilarating waves, secluded coves, or simply a spot to soak up the sun, Byron Bay’s beaches promise unforgettable experiences amidst breathtaking natural beauty. Here are some of our favourites.
11. Chill out at Wategos & Little Wategos
Turquoise blue waters, sandy shores, and dolphins jumping in the waves – welcome to Wategos Beach. Located right underneath the Cape Byron Lighthouse, Wategos is known for beginner-friendly surf, is fantastic for swimming and has communal BBQs you can use to cook up a picnic.
Tip: Visit during low tide and walk around to Little Wategos – my favourite beach in the entire world (and where I got engaged)! This beach feels like a tucked-away paradise, and sometimes you can have it all to yourself. At the end of Little Wategos, you’ll find tidal pools, and from here, it’s common to spot dolphins. Also, if you’re looking for the perfect place for a sunset picnic, I can guarantee this is the spot.
12. Watch the Surfers at The Pass
The Pass is one of the most iconic beaches in Byron Bay. Famous for its sandy shores and rolling waves, this is a very popular surf spot. Although the wave conditions are great for beginners, it tends to get extremely busy, which can be intimidating if you’re just learning.
While you’re here, take a walk up the staircase to check out the Fisherman’s Lookout. The views are incredible, and this is where you can snap a classic Byron Bay photo of The Pass.
13. Bike Along Tallows Beach at Low Tide
Have you ever biked on a beach? At first, heard about this, and I thought it was a recipe for disaster. Sinking into wet sand and going nowhere did not sound like my idea of a good time. But at Tallows Beach, it’s possible. (Biking, not sinking into wet sand). Go at low tide when the sand is wet and compact. Tallows Beach stretches from Cozy Corner to Broken Head Beach, which is an impressive 6.5 km.
Enjoy the incredible oceanside views during your ride and stop for a swim when you get hot. Just make sure you don’t take a break for too long, or the tide might come up, and you’ll have to find an alternative route back!
Tip: Rent bikes at Sunshine Cycle or Byron Bay Surf and Bike Rental. Some hostels and local accommodations include free bike rentals so be sure to check this out before booking separately..
14. SUP the Brunswick River
Have you ever tried Stand-up Paddle (SUP) Boarding? This relaxed sport is a great way to spend some time on the water, without the added worry about catching waves. When the seas are calm, people commonly take their SUPs out at Belongil Beach or in the Brunswick River. If you are looking for lessons, check out this fantastic 2.5-hour tour!
15. Explore Broken Head and Kings Beach
At Broken Head Beach, there is a short trail that takes you from the parking lot up and around Broken Head and over to Kings Beach. The views along this trail are spectacular, and we commonly see dolphins and watch surfers around this area. Kings Beach is a great place to enjoy a picnic, especially when there is a strong northerly wind, as this beach is very sheltered.
Tip: Don’t be surprised if you see some nude bathers on this beach as this is the unofficial nude beach of the area.
17. Discover Caves at Whites Beach
If you want to escape the crowds, check out Whites Beach. This secluded beach has caves that can be explored when the tide is low! Whites Beach is a secret local spot, so if you see people there, act cool and don’t tell them I sent you. 😉
Note: It’s about a 15-minute hike down a flight of uneven stairs to get to Whites, so I don’t recommend it if you are unfit and/or have bad knees.
Shop till You Drop in Byron Bay
18. Shop Local at the Farmers Markets
Byron Bay’s Famers Market happens every Thursday morning from 7:00 -11:00 am. Here you’ll find locally grown fruits, vegetables, honey, eggs, meat, seafood, cheese, olive oils, food trucks, bakers, coffee carts and live music. It’s a wonderful way to meet new people in the community and support the local farmers and food makers in the area. If you aren’t in town on Thursday, you can also go to the Mullumbimby Farmers Market on Fridays (my favourite) or Bangalow Farmers Market on Saturdays.
19. Sunday Markets
If you are looking for a market with locally made goods, bohemian clothes, food trucks and live music, be sure to visit the Sunday Markets. The location alternates every week to different towns in the Northern Rivers. A general rule of thumb is the Byron Bay Markets happen along Main Beach on the first Sunday of the month, and the Bangalow Markets happen in the showgrounds on the last Sunday of the Month.
To double-check which market is open during your visit, check out this monthly schedule. In my opinion, the Bangalow and Byron Bay Sunday markets are the best. The other locations don’t have as many vendors.
20. Visit Spell & The Gypsy
The brand that made bohemian fashion trendy and has a cult-like following with over one million followers on Instagram! Spell & The Gypsy started in Byron Bay and has its only boutique in the world located at 15 Browning Street. Even if you can’t afford their beautiful clothes, their beautiful boutique is worth a visit!
21. Shop Around Byron Bay:
Grab a flat white from Sparrow Coffee (the best flat white in Byron, in my opinion) and hit the shops around town. Some of my favourites are:
Kivari – one of my absolute faves! Such beautiful dresses.
Mr. Zimi – super-bright & fun patterns
Rowie – classic linen pieces
Hope & May – decor & apparel
This & That boutique – a mix of inexpensive brand lines
Auguste the Label – Feminine fashion; and another one of my favorites.
Nikau – Trendy home decor/floral shop
Arnhem Clothing – Boho attire with lots of patterns.
22. Browse the Shops at Habitat & The Industrial Estate
The Industrial Estate is another trendy shopping area outside of town, which can be a bit of a maze and hard to wander. So if you stop anywhere, let it be Habitat. Habitat is a smaller complex, complete with lovely boutique shops, delicious cafes, and fitness studios. I come here at least once a week for my Bende’s Barre classes. After, I usually stay for a coffee and do some work at Barrio or grab a delicious smoothie from Vagabond.
Also in the Industrial area is Stone and Wood Brewery. If you don’t do the Brewery and Distillery tour, I mention below, swing by Stone and Wood Brewery for some tasty brews. Across the street is the famous Surfboard shop McTavish, which is worth visiting. Their surfboards are works of art and the envy of every surfer out there. You’ll leave wanting to buy every surfboard, even if you don’t surf.
Embrace the Bohemian Spirit: Nourish Your Soul with Wellness and Self-Discovery in Byron Bay
In Byron Bay, wellness and self-discovery are not just trends but a way of life deeply rooted in the region’s natural splendor and spiritual energy. Amidst the pristine beaches, lush hinterlands, and alternative lifestyle, Byron Bay offers a myriad of opportunities for visitors to embark on transformative journeys of self-exploration and holistic well-being. From yoga retreats overlooking the ocean to meditation sessions in secluded rainforest clearings, the town’s nurturing environment invites travelers to reconnect with themselves, rejuvenate their spirits, and embrace a deeper sense of balance and inner harmony. Explore the myriad of wellness experiences awaiting in Byron Bay, where every moment is an invitation to discover your truest self amidst the beauty of nature.
23. Participate in a Drum Circle at Main Beach
Byron Bay is known to have a hippie vibe and culture. To embrace this get involved and dance your heart out at the nightly drum circle. The Drum Circle takes place every evening right before sunset at Main Beach!
24. Try a Sound Bath Meditation
I recently stumbled upon this spiritual experience, and after my first session, I was hooked. Drop-in classes run every Thursday evening, about 30 minutes outside of Byron, and the cost is by donation! See the Facebook page for more details. Alternatively, they also run daily sound bath meditation sessions at Crystal Castle (free with your admission).
25. Reset with a Yoga or Pilates Class
A lot of visitors come to Byron to heal or go to wellness retreats! If you are looking for an incredible wellness retreat, I hear Byron Yoga Centre is the best. But if you prefer to just drop into a couple of classes during your holiday, check out my favourite studios: Bende at Habitat, Bamboo Yoga School and Creature Yoga.
26. Relax at the Spa
Every vacation should include a relaxing trip to the spa! And in Byron Bay, there are plenty of options. For something more luxurious with beautiful facilities, go to the Byron at Byron or the Osprey Spa at Elements. For an incredible facial, go to Aesthetica Byron Bay, or if you want a more Baliene-inspired spa experience go to Buddha Gardens Day Spa.
Nightlife in Byron Bay
While Byron Bay’s nightlife may not rival the bustling scenes of larger Australian cities, its charm lies in its unique, laid-back atmosphere and eclectic offerings. In this coastal town, the nightlife is a reflection of its relaxed vibe, where intimate bars, live music venues, and beachside gatherings take precedence over flashy clubs and bustling streets. Despite its relatively tame reputation, Byron Bay exudes its own brand of fun and excitement, with evenings characterized by live acoustic performances, sunset drinks by the shore, and impromptu drum circles under the stars.
However, if you’re seeking a club-like experience, be sure to check out popular spots like Woody’s Surf Shack, Casa Luna, Salt Water Social Club, and The Backyard (Secret Garden) Byron, where the energy picks up, and the night takes on a different rhythm. Here, genuine connections are still forged amidst the vibrant ambiance, ensuring that every night in Byron Bay offers something special for everyone.
27. Saturday Twilight Night Market in Town
Located beside the Railway Pub in the center of town, you find the Twilight Night Market, which happens on Saturday nights, from 4 pm-9 pm. You can expect local artisans, food trucks, live music and other small businesses. This market typically runs August-April, but check online to make sure it’s open when you go.
28. Listen to Live Music at The Beach Hotel.
The Beach Hotel is a Byron Bay institution. It’s the place I went ten years ago as a backpacker, and it’s still THE spot to meet friends for a schooner of beer (aka. what the Aussies call a mini pint) and enjoy live music every day!
29. Silent Disco and People Watch at Main Beach.
Sometimes on Friday and Saturday nights around the Main Beach parking lot/grassy area, you’ll see a van supplying party-goers with Silent Disco headsets for around $15-20 per person. These headsets have a couple of stations with different genres playing, so you can pick your music and dance the night away.
However, even if you don’t do the silent disco, most weekends, you’ll find a group of fire-throwing hippies, hula-hooping and trying partner acrobatics which can easily keep you entertained for a while.
30. Star Gaze & Watch the Full Moon Rise
Because there isn’t much light pollution in Byron Bay, the stargazing here is incredible. It’s shocking how clear you can see the Milky Way! I have my favourite spots to stargaze, but they’re a bit of a secret. So you’ll have to discover your own! To get you started, I would say stay away from the lighthouse (its beam will not only distract you, but dull the stars), but the beach is always a good bet.
And if you happen to be in Byron for a full moon, be sure to watch it from Tallows Beach or the lighthouse. The lighthouse is a great place to watch a full moon rising in the winter because you can watch the sunset, and not long after, the moon will rise. Before moving to Byron, I had never seen a full moon rise from the ocean. Now it’s a memory I’ll always remember!
Food and Drink Experiences in Byron Bay
Dining in Byron, is another must-do activity, as there are so many incredible cafes, restaurants, and bars. To help you out, I have created posts on the Best Byron Bay Cafes, and the 15 Must-try Restaurants in Byron Bay that you can read for details. Since I have tried almost every eatery in Byron, these posts will help you narrow down which restaurants to check out during your Byron Bay stay, and which ones to skip.
Conclusion: What to do in Byron Bay
If you’ve made it to the bottom of this article, congratulations and thank you for reading this entire post! You now know what to do in Byron Bay and are set to have the best trip.
Be sure to send me a direct message if you have any unanswered questions. I’d be more than happy to help. Lastly, I’d love to hear what Byron Bay’s experiences from my list inspired you the most. What are you the most excited to do during your visit to Byron Bay?
And if you enjoyed this post, please share it with a friend and leave me a comment below.
More Travel Guides for Australia
- 15 Must-try Restaurants in Byron Bay
- Best Byron Bay Cafes
- Mullumbimby and Crystal Castle: A 1 Day Byron Bay Road Trip
- Alice Springs to Uluru: Northern Territory Road Trip Itinerary
- A Travel Guide to Sailing the Whitsundays: 5 Day Itinerary
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