My Guide to Byron Bay
Byron Bay is a place full of beautiful beaches, organic cafes and a laidback atmosphere. What used to be a quiet coastal town has now turned into one of Australia’s most popular tourist destinations and it isn’t hard to see why. After living here for four months, I have put together a collection of all my recommendations on this post, as well as things that are on the bucket list for next time. Whether you’re into surfing, fitness, photography, shopping, fine dining or just wanting to relax there’s something for everyone in this iconic town.
Location
Byron Bay is located on the far-north coast of NSW, Australia and is home to Australia's most easterly point. It’s approximately a 50 minute drive south of the Gold Coast and 8 hours north of Sydney.
Getting to Byron Bay
There are a few different options to get to Byron Bay, the closest airport is Ballina Airport which is 30 minutes south of Byron, or Gold Coast Airport which is 50 minutes north. Brisbane airport is another option which is 1 hour 50 minutes north. There are shuttle buses available from the airport which will take you to Byron Bay. If you are driving, there is one main entrance into the town via Ewingsdale Road. You will turn off the Pacific Highway at ‘The Farm’ and follow Ewingsdale Road, going past the Industrial Estate and then into the town centre.
The best time to visit
The weather in Byron Bay makes it the perfect place to enjoy outdoor activities all year round, unlike some other popular destinations such as Melbourne which get freezing during winter or Far North Queensland which gets very hot and humid during summer. Byron benefits from mild weather all year round, with an average temperature of 24 degrees.
The hottest months in Byron are between December - February (high 20s - high 30s) which is also peak season for tourism, so make sure you book accommodation well in advance for this time. Autumn (March - May) still consists of warm days but has much cooler nights, but overall is a good time to visit as you avoid big tourist crowds and crazy hot days. Spring (September - November) offers very pleasant weather conditions with little rainfall, and for most isn’t as over crowded as the summer months. Winter (June - August) can get quite cold but is also the beginning of whale watching season.
The best time to visit depends on personal preference and what your main reasons for visiting Byron are, but if you don’t like busy towns and crowds I would avoid visiting late November through to mid January. Overall I would say the best time to visit is either mid spring in October or mid autumn in April as both these times offer warm weather and avoids wet season and the busy crowds of summer.
Accommodation
Byron Bay is certainly not short on incredible accommodation and has a number of beautiful resorts, air bnb’s, caravan parks and quality hostels. Whatever accommodation style you decide on I would book well in advance, especially if you plan to visit during peak season (summer months). When I lived in Byron I stayed in two different hostels, Wake Up! and Surf House, both of which I absolutely loved and highly recommend.
Luxury
This list could go on forever as Byron has so many incredible accommodation options, but I have created a short list of some popular options below.
Elements Of Byron - This divine beachfront resort features an adults exclusive pool, beach lounge, spa, horse ranch, kids playground, 24-hour indoor gym and outdoor tennis court. It is situated just past the industrial estate and just a short walk away from the beach.
Raes On Wategos - The incredibly instagrammable Raes offers luxury accommodation on the doorstep of Wategeos Beach, featuring two penthouses along with five suites.
Crystalbrook Byron - Crystalbrook is home to 92 suites, incredible service and superb facilities. This luxury resort is surrounded by 45-acres of subtropical rainforest which makes for an incredible holiday atmosphere.
The Bower Byron Bay - Located next door to The Byron Bay General Store, this resort has a range of room sizes available to meet everyones needs including a cottage, barn, studios and a queen room. They offer services such as complimentary bike hire and yoga essentials, as well as a luxurious hotel spa.
The Villas Of Byron - Here you will have your own private oasis, surrounded by lush greenery and beautiful furnishings. Their accommodation options include one or two bedroom villas, or a one or two bedroom grand villa for something more.
Blackbird Byron - Tucked away in the Byron Hinterland, this is the perfect place to relax, slow down and enjoy the peace and quiet of the Hinterland. All pavilions look over the Pacific Ocean providing some incredible sunrise views.
The Range - Situated on 125 acres, you’ll find this luxury estate on top of Piccadilly hill, overlooking the incredible Hinterland. The European inspired home is the perfect place for a luxury holiday with friends or family.
Caravan Parks
Igenia Holiday Parks - This caravan park is Byron’s largest accommodation, featuring 170 campsites and 61 cabins. Located halfway between the town centre and Suffolk Park on Broken Head Road, it’s close enough to enjoy everything Byron has to offer but also far enough away to enjoy some peace and quiet.
Glen Villa Resort - Accommodation options at this resort include deluxe cabins, beach huts, cottages and camping areas. I visited friends who were staying at this caravan park and think it would be a great place to stay. It is also in a wonderful location not too far from the town centre.
Reflections Holiday Parks - Tiny homes, cabins & villas and powered & unpowered sites are available at this caravan park. It is next to Clarkes Beach and is also in-between the town centre and the lighthouse, providing an excellent location for your stay.
First Sun Holiday Park - This holiday park has an incredible location, directly on the Main Beach of Byron Bay and right next to Lawson and Jonson Street, as well as the popular Beach Hotel. You have the option of a cabin, lodges, huts, powered or unpowered sites and a camp area.
Hostels
The Surf House - Located in the heart of Byron, this hostel is home to Byron’s only rooftop bar. It offers complimentary surfboards and is only 50m from the main beach. There is something for everyone with private, shared and female only rooms available.
Wake Up! - Only steps away from Belongil Beach, this hostel will give you the full Byron experience with its beach and surf atmosphere, balconies to relax on and outdoor courtyard full of palms. Guests have access to many complimentary activities including free yoga, sunrise lighthouse tours and surfboard hire.
YHA Byron Bay - YHA hostel is located in the town centre, only 200m from the beach. You’ll find a large heated pool, BBQ area and outdoor common areas at this hostel.
Arts Factory Lodge - This hostel is very unique, it even features in The Inbetweeners movie. They host a talent show every Thursday night and have a range of different sleeping options, including a bed in a tepee.
Backpackers Inn - You’ll find this hostel on Shirley Street, not far from the beach and town centre. This hostel offers a beach volleyball court, outdoor communal area, free parking, big screen tv and surf/boogie and SUP board hire.
Aquarius Byron - Right in the heart of Byron, you’ll find The Rocks Cafe just next door. Room options vary with dorm rooms, female only rooms, 2 and 3 person rooms and private rooms available.
Wake Up Hostel Review
Wake Up Hostel is located opposite Belongli Beach, in an area a lot quieter than the town centre and takes about 15 - 20 minutes to walk into town. I lived in this hostel for about 6 weeks from mid October to the end of November 2022, and don’t really have anything bad to say about it at all (besides the long walk home after a night out)! I stayed in a mixed 10 person room for the first week and then a mixed 4 person room for the following 5 weeks, both of which had an ensuite and balcony. I was very impressed by the size of the rooms and the kitchen, which was a massive bonus as a lot of hostels I’ve stayed in have had very squished kitchens.
Pros:
Free yoga classes
Free surfboard hire
Free shuttle bus to the town centre
Sunrise lighthouse tours
Free wifi
Treehouse Byron Bay next door
Belongil beach across the road
Cheap bike hire
Spacious rooms
Balconies
Free parking on site
Very large kitchen
Beautiful outdoor area with picnic tables
Large lockers in room
Cons:
Not located in town centre
The only way home after a night out is the 15 - 20 minute walk
No bar at the hostel
Surf House Hostel Review
Surf House is located right in the town centre which makes it an excellent choice if you are wanting to walk around the main streets to enjoy the cafes and shops, and also perfect if you go out at night. I lived here for all of December and over New Years, and had such a great time. The vibe at this hostel is amazing with the rooftop bar creating a great atmosphere. The room sizes were smaller than Wake Up!, but the location was so convenient.
Pros:
Location is incredible, right near the main beach, shops, restaurants and bars
Byron’s only rooftop bar
Underground parking
Free rooftop yoga
Free bbq Thursdays
Drink specials at the bar
Complimentary surf board hire
Complimentary welcome drink
Locker under bed
Cons
The room I stayed in for most of my stay was on the same side as one of Byron’s main streets, and directly across the road from Lover’s Lane. The music was very loud until 2-3am most nights. I did stay in another room (202) which was located on a different side of the building so I couldn't hear the noise from there
You have to pay for parking
*Please note these reviews are based on when I was there September 2022- January 2023 and some things may be subject to change*Overall both these hostels were amazing which makes it hard to pick a favourite. If being located in the town centre is a priority I would suggest staying at the Surf House, and if you are wanting a more outdoors and relaxed vibe I would choose Wake Up! Hostel.
Beaches
Byron Bay has some incredible beaches, where you can swim, surf, snorkel, go for a run, relax or enjoy a picnic with friends. My favourites are Wategos Beach, Main Beach and The Pass, but all of them are beautiful and worth checking out.
Wategos Beach - Possibly the most photogenic beach in Byron, it is located near the iconic Raes Restaurant and north west of the lighthouse. You'll find free beachside picnic tables and barbecues, as well as some impressive houses in the area.
Main Beach - Situated in front of the town’s centre, it is a close walk to places like the Beach Hotel, the beach side markets and many other dining places. A large grass area next to the beach is an extremely popular area for people to sit and relax or have a picnic. Many buskers also play here during the evening, and there are facilities such as toilets, barbecues, playgrounds and picnic tables.
Belongil Beach - Much quieter than Byron Bay’s main beach, it begins near Beach Hotel, goes past Wake Up! Byron Bay and Treehouse and then ends just before Elements Of Byron.
The Pass - You’ll find The Pass at the end of Clarkes Beach, this area is one of Byron’s most popular surfing spots. Be sure to climb up Fisherman’s Lookout, which provides great views of The Pass, Clarkes Beach and Main Beach. You’ll also find the Pass Cafe not too far from here near the car park.
Clarkes Beach - Byron’s Main Beach flows into Clarkes Beach, a quieter area which has a big caravan park, beachfront parking and great facilities. It is also a great spot to go swimming or snorkelling.
Little Wategos - Australia’s most easterly beach, it is accessible via a turnoff from the Cape Byron Walking Track. This beach is only 150m long and is usually fairly quiet.
Tallow Beach - This beach is connected to Broken Head further down south, and is located in Arakwal National Park. You can get an excellent view of this beach from Lighthouse Road.
Best places to eat
Cafes
Byron Bay has the most aesthetic cafes you’ll ever see, with one just about everywhere you look. My three favourites were the Byron Bay General Store, Folk and Combi, they have the yummiest food and just a classic Byron feel to them. Whether your wanting avo toast, your morning coffee or to try something completely new, you’ll find a cafe you love in this town.
The Byron Bay General Store - Found just out of the town centre on Bangalow Road, the buckwheat waffles were my absolute favourite here.
Folk Byron Bay - This cafe is a little out of the town centre but is extremely instagrammable and the Folk Burrito is so delicious.
Bayleaf Cafe - Bayleaf Cafe offers a seasonal menu full of local ingredients and is found in the town centre.
The Pass Cafe - This beautiful cafe overlooks the iconic ‘The Pass’ beach where you are bound to see people surfing or out on a walk.
Top Shop Byron Bay - You’ll find this super cute cafe on the corner of Massinger and Carlyle street at the top of the hill.
Cape Byron Lighthouse Cafe - Providing an amazing view, this cafe is the perfect place to relax after a hike to the lighthouse.
Byron Corner Store - A popular place to go for takeaway during the day, you’ll find options such as croissants, rolls and salads.
The Roadhouse Byron Bay - Situated on the outskirts of Byron on Bangalow Road, this cafe features a peaceful outdoor seating area and is open from 7am-2pm every day.
Combi - Home to the best açai and smoothies in Byron, visiting this cafe is an absolute must!
Sunday Sustainable Bakery - This place gets extremely busy with both locals and tourists, everything produced here uses organic and local ingredients.
The Rocks Cafe - Located at Aquarius Backpackers, it is a popular place to get a coffee or brunch.
Restaurants
The dining options in Byron Bay are insane for a small town, this list could’ve been 3 times the length and still not covered everything. I absolutely loved Balcony Bar & Oyster Co, Loft and Raes, with Light Years and Miss Margarita top of the list for next time.
Balcony Bar & Oyster Co - Located above the bustling streets of Byron, if you choose to sit on the balcony you’ll get a great view of Lawson and Jonson Street. The menu offers things from cauliflower steak to chargrilled calamari to fish tacos.
Light Years - Bringing you an asian dining experience, delicious cocktails and unique decor, visiting Light Years needs to be top of your list.
No Bones - No Bones is all about plant based food, yummy cocktails and sustainable practices.
Miss Margarita - A Mexican restaurant full of energy and vibrant colours. If you are a Mexican food lover like me, look no further as you’ll find everything from tacos, burritos, nachos, quesadillas, enchiladas and more.
Elixiba - A plant based restaurant with a unique interior featuring tree like booths to sit in while eating.
Bang Bang - With a wide range of options on the menu like Kingfish Sashimi, Sticky Pork Belly and Pad Seuw, this restaurant is a great option and can be found on Byron Street.
Beach Byron Bay - Situated on the waterfront looking out onto Clarkes Beach, not only is this stunning venue a restaurant but also a wedding venue.
Raes On Wategos - You’ve probably seen Raes on Instagram before, it offers a 3-course a la carte menu or 6-course tasting menu with Mediterranean influenced dishes.
Three Blue Ducks - Located at The Farm, they offer options including group menus, breakfast, lunch, dinner, drinks, picnic hampers and offsite catering.
Tree House - Across the road from the peaceful Belongil Beach, Tree House provides wood fire pizzas, live music, tasty cocktails and lots of other yummy things.
Forest - Located at Crystalbrook and overlooking tropical rainforest, over 80% of their ingredients are gathered from within a three hour drive.
Loft Byron Bay - The Loft has a beachy atmosphere with its light and white interiors and rattan lighting, it is a beautiful venue.
Casual eats/dessert
Eating out at restaurants can get expensive and sometimes you just want something quick and reasonably priced. If I couldn’t be bothered cooking and dealing with a busy hostel kitchen Finn Poke, Guzman Y Gomez and Betty’s Burgers were my go to’s. If you are like me and obsessed with Yo-Chi, definitely check out Yoflo to get your frozen yogurt fix.
Yoflo - Similar to the popular Yo-Chi, you’ll find this frozen yogurt and dessert bar near the Surf House and Subway.
Love Byron Bay - A yummy creperie and chocolate boutique, it is located near the main roundabout near Surf Dive ‘n Ski.
Betty's Burgers - A quick, easy and delicious meal option, I think Betty’s Burgers tastes better in Byron than other towns I’ve had it in.
In The Pink Gelato - This gelato shop is a family business and offers real gelato made from scratch.
Frankies Gelato Naturale - Located on Fletcher Street, they offer a unique list of flavours including dark chocolate & orange and strawberry hibiscus & mint.
BellaRosa - BellaRosa is a family run business which has been making Italian gelato in Byron Bay since 1999. They cater for all dietary requirements such as gluten & dairy free and vegan.
Finn Poke - I am obsessed with poke bowls so you can only imagine how many times I visited this place, it is the perfect healthy takeaway option.
Guzman Y Gomez - There may be no McDonalds but there is Guzman Y Gomez to make up for that. Located on Jonson Street its a popular place to go for a easy and tasty dinner.
Best night life
Byron doesn't have the biggest nightlife, but for a small town there are still a few options. I found the Beach Hotel or The Rails was the most popular locations to go early in the night, with Woody’s, Lover’s Lane and Piano Bar buzzing further into the night. There is sadly no Mcdonald’s to go to after a night out, but luckily there is a 24 hour bakery opposite The Northern Hotel and a Kebab shop on Jonson Street. Otherwise make sure you have a food stash waiting for you on your bed for when you get back.
The Northern Hotel - You can grab a drink or classic pub meal here, or if you go further to the back of the building you’ll find a stage with live music at night.
Piano Bar - After four months living in Byron, I can say the Piano Bar was probably the most popular place to go on a night out. Be sure to get here reasonably early as it gets very busy on the weekends.
Lovers Lane- Located on Lawson Street, it has a nightclub vibe inside with an outdoor seating area on the balcony.
Woody's Surf Shack - A nightclub with a surf atmosphere, it is open 8pm until 3am Wednesday - Saturday nights.
The Railway Friendly Bar - Locally known as ‘The Rails’, this place offers live music as well as delicious food and drinks.
Beach Hotel - A venue full of food, drinks, live music, DJs and an outdoor seating area right near the main beach.
Casa Luna - Located in the heart of Byron, Casa Luna provides excellent food, cocktails and both local and international music.
Fitness
There are loads of options in Byron for staying fit, whether you’re a gym junkie, obsessed with pilates or prefer to be outdoors, there’s something for everyone. I did the lighthouse walk most days, with the sunny weather making this even more enjoyable and motivating (I don’t recommend doing this hungover). I also hired a bike to explore the town with friends which was loads of fun and did both Peaches Pilates and yoga at Wake Up! hostel.
Outdoors
Cape Byron Lighthouse Track - Probably the most popular way to keep fit in Byron Bay, this track provides some incredible views. There are a few different options to reach the lighthouse, the main hiking trail is fairly challenging on the way up but the view is absolutely worth it. It is approximately a 4km loop and depending on how many photos you plan to take and stops you need, I’d allow 1-2 hours to fully enjoy it. Some sections are quite steep so I recommend wearing enclosed shoes (I’ve seen people attempting in thongs or bare foot, this is not ideal). There are some incredible coastal views along this track, so be sure to keep an eye out for dolphins and whales. There are also options of parking closer and just doing a section of the hike or walking up via Lighthouse Road which isn’t as steep as the main trail.
Hire a bike - Hiring a bike is a great way to explore Byron; there is also a long bike path that goes out of the town towards the industrial estate. Out here you can visit a cafe such as Folk or have a break on Belongil Beach.
Surf - Surfing is extremely popular in Byron, with many of the beaches covered in surfers during the day. If you are looking for lessons Soul Surf School, Black Dog Surfing and Lets Go Surfing are popular options.
Kayaking - This is a great way to see the beauty of the coastline and also get some fitness in. There are a few different tour options available, such as Go Sea Kayak and Cape Byron Kayaks.
Byron Run Club - Joining a running group is great way to meet new people and stay fit. This club offers different running times throughout the week.
Byron Stand Up Paddle - This tour provides an adventure down Brunswick River which is both peaceful and challenging at the same time. Allow 2 hours for the tour and up to 3 including travel time as it begins at Brunswick Heads.
Pilates/Yoga
Peaches Pilates - I visited this studio a few times and loved it, I had never done a mat pilates class before but it is absolutely still a killer workout. They offer a week trial of unlimited classes for $39 and also an unlimited membership for $55 per week. They also offer workouts online which you can do from home!
Bende Pilates - Located in the Industrial Estate, this studio offers Pilates, Barre, Reformer, Yoga & Yin. They have a two week introductory pass for $75 which includes unlimited classes in 14 days! There’s also a vacation pass which includes 3 classes (in 7 days) for $75 and two membership options; 2 classes weekly for $45 or unlimited for $60 weekly.
Strong Pilates - This studio is located in the town centre and is a mix of reformer pilates and rowing/bike. Its a great way to try something different!
BodyMindLife - This studio offers yoga and pilates, with a 14 day trial at $59 or a $60 per week membership. You can also choose a casual class for $29 if you only plan to attend a few sessions.
Creature Yoga - Not only is this studio located in the Byron Industrial Estate, but it is also located online too. They offer a 7 day free trial for their online yoga classes, with a wide range of yoga styles available. The in studio passes include $28 for a one time visit and $75 for a week.
Wake Up Hostel Yoga - Wake Up hostel has free yoga on everyday for all their guests.
Gyms
BFT Byron Bay - BFT Byron is located in the Industrial Estate, and is the perfect place to improve your fitness. You can book a casual class or 10 visit pass which are both great options while on holidays. For locals wanting to lock in more classes there is an unlimited membership option for $140 every two weeks.
Byron Gym - Located in the heart of Byron on Jonson Street, they offer a range of classes such as pilates, circus training, spin, yoga and zumba.
F45 Training Byron Bay - A gym you have probably heard of before, this is located in the Industrial Estate. There’s options of weekly holiday memberships for $75 or a casual class for $35. They also offer a 1 week free trial for Byron Shire locals only and a 10 visit pass for $250.
Social Remedy - At Social Remedy they offer gym classes and group fitness, personal training, yoga and pilates, exercise physiology and rehabilitation as well as massages, ice baths, a steam room and sauna available. You will find this gym in the Industrial Estate, which is located just off the main road into Byron.
Shopping
Byron Bay has an amazing selection of shops for a small town, ranging from fancy boutiques to more common shops like Cotton On. My top choices would be Tigerlily, Assembly Label and Thrills.
Tigerlily - Tigerlily is all about bohemian swimwear, clothing and accessories and was founded in Sydney, Australia in 2000.
Spell - The ultimate bohemian store and Splendour In The Grass go to for outfits, this store is full of beautiful and unique garments.
Arnhem - Arnhem is everything earthy and floral; you’ll find dresses, skirts and tops, as well as accessories and swim wear. It was also created by a Byron local.
Assembly Label - This brand is all about simple and effortless basic statement pieces, you’ll be sure to find a linen staple item here.
Thrills - A brand you’ve probably heard of before, it is well known for its streetwear and vintage style.
Miss Brown Vintage - If you are into vintage clothing this store is absolutely worth checking out, Miss Brown uses vintage pieces of fabric to recreate styles from the 50s, 60s and 70s..
Ghanda - A surf and streetwear brand, this store is a great place to go if you are in need of some basics or even a casual dress to wear on a night out.
Rowie - A small and beautiful boutique founded by a local, Rowie Moore. Rowie The Label sources sustainable, natural materials wherever possible and has three stores, one in Byron, one in Bangalow and one in Fortitude Valley.
Afends - A brand that is all about sustainability and leading the way in organic hemp fashion, it all began in 2006 right in the town of Byron.
Mister Zimi - This brand is all about bright colours and patterns, you’ll be sure to find something unique in this store.
Tree Of Life - Featuring boho clothing, jewellery and homewares, this store is very reasonably priced and definitely worth checking out if you are on a budget.
Festivals/Events/Markets
Festivals/Events
I was lucky enough to attend Falls Festival 2022/23 on the last day to see Arctic Monkeys live. There is something about attending a festival in Byron that is just so magical.
Falls Festival - Unfortunately Falls isn’t going ahead in 2023, but keeping our hopes up it returns in the future, attending this festival is an absolute must if you are in the area over New Years.
Splendour In The Grass - This iconic festival is at the top of my bucket list, it is held over three nights (Friday - Sunday) towards the end of July each year. This years headliners included Mumford and Sons and Flume. Previous headliners include Gorillaz, Tame Impala, Childish Gambino, Kendrick Lamar and Lorde.
Bluesfest - This festival showcases music from around the world each year over the Easter long weekend at Tyagarah Tea Tree Farm, just 12 minutes north of Byron.
Caper Byron Bay - This is a four day food and culture festival, which also has a great lineup of musicians and DJs playing each year.
Byron Bay Triathlon - Participants can choose from a variety of options including olympic, sprint, aqua bike, aquathlon and kids. This triathlon is held in May each year.
Byron Bay Music Festival - The only music festival held in the township, this event has a 100% local lineup and is all ages.
Byron Bay Surf Festival - Held in August, this multi-day event includes surfing, film and a focus on sustainability and education.
Markets
First week of the month
Brunswick Heads Markets - Held on the 1st Saturday of every month from 8am-2pm. Here you can pick up some groceries or grab some hot food.
Byron Bay Markets - This has been Byron’s original market since 1987 and is held on the 1st Sunday of every month, as well as the 3rd Sunday December and January.
Second week of the month
Bangalow Flea Markets - This market has things from second hand clothing to collectables to vintage items. It’s held on the 2nd Saturday of every month from 8am-2pm.
Third week of the month
Mullumbimby Markets - Held on the 3rd Saturday of every month from 8am-2pm, this market has live music, delicious food, eco products, fresh juices and much more.
Fourth Week of the month
Nimbin Markets - Held on the 4th Sunday of every month form 9am-3pm at 81 Cullen Street, Nimbin. You’ll come across unique artisan wares, crafty arts and many other interesting things.
Bangalow Markets - A great excuse for a road trip, this market is held on the 4th Sunday of every month from 8am-2.30pm.
Byron Beachside Market - This market has a bit of everything including textiles, homewares, fashion, food and more. It’s held four times a year; January, Easter, July and September/October long weekend from 8am-2pm.
Byron Twilight Market - Held every Saturday from October to April from 4-9pm, here you can come and enjoy Byron’s local culture in a lively family-friendly atmosphere.
Farmers Markets
Lismore Farmers Market - Located at Lismore Showground, Alexandra Parade, Lismore and held every Saturday 7.30am-11.30am. Loads of car parking available and dogs on leads are welcome.
Byron Farmers Market - This market is held on Butler Street Reserve, Byron Bay and held every Thursday 7am-11am. This market is one of the longest running farmers markets in Australia.
Mullumbimby Farmers Market - Held at Mullumbimby Showgrounds, 51 Main Arm Road, Mullumbimby, you’ll find loads of fresh organic food here. This market is held every Friday 7am-11am.
Bangalow Farmers Market - Held on Saturdays from 7am-11am at Bangalow Hotel Carpark, 1 Byron Street, Bangalow, it is the perfect way to start your day by grabbing some breakfast and stocking up on fresh produce.
Surrounding towns
Day trips out to surrounding towns was one of my favourite things to do while living in Byron. There are so many interesting and beautiful things to see. I absolutely loved Brunswick Heads and Lennox Head, both are very quiet and peaceful yet fascinating at the same time.
Brunswick Heads - You’ll find this town just 20 minutes north of Byron, situated at the mouth of the Brunswick River. You’ll find cute cafes, unique streets to explore and Torakina Beach which is a sheltered and photogenic place to sit and relax. It is a small but beautiful town that is well worth a visit.
Lennox Head - With world-class surf breaks, picturesque Seven Mile Beach and a Main Street full of cafes, boutiques and restaurants, visiting this town is a must. It’s just 20 minutes south of Byron, and also features a lookout - Pat Morton Lookout, which overlooks the town, Seven Mile Beach and out towards Skenner’s Head.
Suffolk Park - Just a short drive out of town or a 25 minute bike ride to Byron, this town is becoming more and more popular for people who want to live close to Byron Bay but have a bit more peace and quiet, especially during the busy summer months. Things to do in this town include visiting the Suffolk Bakery, relaxing on the beach or even driving down to Broken Head.
Mullumbimby - Known as ‘The biggest little town in Australia’, it’s just 20 minutes out of Byron, heading out towards the famous Nightcap National Park. It is also a 10 minute drive from Crystal Castle which is home to two of the biggest crystals in the world.
Ballina - With a population of around 46,000, you will feel like you are in a huge city after staying in Byron. If you are missing Kmart or Mcdonald’s, this town has you covered. Ballina is only a 30 minute drive south of Byron and you can also visit towns such as Suffolk Park and Lennox Head on the way.
Lismore - A 45 minute drive inland, this town is the Northern Rivers regional capital and situated on the Richmond River. You’ll find some old buildings throughout this town and it is quite unique, which makes for an interesting drive around the town.
Nimbin - Nimbin is known as Australia’s alternative lifestyle capital , but it is also a place where you can relax, explore surrounding national parks or check out one of their quirky shops.
Bangalow - Home to the photogenic Woods Cafe, this town is located just 16 minutes out of Byron. The drive to Bangalow is stunning and the main street is full of quirky little shops.
Newrybar - Located just off the Pacific Motorway and about halfway between Byron and Lennox Head, here you will find the aesthetic Harvest Restaurant.
Kombi Spotting
One of my favourite things about Byron is the fact that you see Kombi vans regularly and in just about every colour combination possible. Being one of my favourite cars, at the end of my four months in Byron my camera roll was full of Kombi photos.
Waterfalls
I loved doing mini road trips exploring amazing waterfalls surrounding Byron Bay. Visiting at least one of these waterfalls should be high on your to do list when visiting Byron.
Killen Falls - One of the most easily accessible and photogenic waterfalls near Byron, it’s a 30 minute drive south. You’ll turn off the Pacific Highway at Tintenbar and then follow Friday Hut Road followed by Killen Falls Drive. It’s a 1km return walk through the bushland to reach the stunning 10-metre waterfall.
Minyon Falls -The quickest route to this waterfall from Byron is a 50 minute drive inland, keeping in mind this road is quite windy. Unfortunately the walking track to the bottom of the waterfall was closed when I visited, so I only got to access the viewing platform - which was still an amazing view. The walk to the viewing platform is very quick and easy from the carpark, where you’ll see the 100 metre waterfall from the top. There are two walking tracks to the bottom of the waterfall to choose from; the easier, two hour return walk to Minyon Grass picnic area (4km return) or the longer and harder 4-5 hour Minyon Loop Walking Track (approx 8km loop). Both tracks go through spectacular rainforest before arriving at the bottom of the waterfall.
Whian Whian Falls - This waterfall is also a 50 minute drive inland from Byron Bay. You will find the carpark on Whian Whian Road just after Simes Bridge/Rocky Creek. After arriving look for a clearing and track on your left which will lead you to the falls. From here getting to the waterfall is quite easy and not that far to walk. This waterfall is a great place to go for a swim, have a picnic on the rocks and play some music.
Protestor Falls - This waterfall is the furthest from Byron with a 1 hour 12 minute drive, but the views certainly make up for it. The walking track winds through a magnificent World Heritage rainforest leading to the base of the stunning waterfall. It’s a 1.4km return walk with 1hr - 1hr 30 min suggested. Swimming is prohibited at this waterfall to protect the habitat of the Fleay’s barred frog.
Lookouts
There are some incredible lookouts in Byron and its surrounding towns. It’s hard to choose a favourite, so I really recommend trying to see as many of these as possible during your visit to Byron.
Fisherman’s Lookout - A wooden staircase which leads to a viewing platform looking over The Pass, it is the perfect spot to watch surfers and do some whale watching.
Cape Byron Lookout Point - The most iconic spot in Byron, this lookout is the perfect place to go for both sunrise or sunset.
Australia’s most easterly point - You’ll find this point on the Cape Byron Walking Track, here you’ll be able to grab a photo of the sign or have a break from hiking.
Captain Cook Lookout - This lookout is located near Clarkes Beach, providing excellent views as well as a picnic area, toilets and parking.
Tallow Beach - Walking just down from the lighthouse on Lighthouse Road you will get a stunning view of Tallow Beach.
Minyon Falls - Minyon Falls lookout offers incredible views of the 100m waterfall from the top and looking out over the forest.
Pat Morton Lookout - Located at Lennox Head, you’ll get an amazing view of the town and Seven Mile Beach.
St Helena Lookout - You’ll get an incredible view of the Hinterland from this lookout and visiting this lookout is also a great excuse to explore the hinterland towns.
Some extra things to note:
There is no free parking in the town, the only place I could find was Woolworths for one hour or going down to Suffolk Park
Keep an eye out for the Hula Hoop man
Byron is crazy expensive, a croissant was more at a cafe in Byron than the Gold Coast airport
There is only one main road into the town so during peak season this gets super packed and sometimes even at a standstill, as well as in the main town
Don’t get your hopes up on seeing Chris Hemsworth
Try to buy things like petrol and groceries before entering the town as it is extra expensive in Byron
Don’t attempt to free camp as they are extremely strict
If you are looking to rent a room in Byron, consider outer towns such as Suffolk Park, Brunswick Heads, Lennox Head or Ballina
Be sure to try the silent disco on the beach
And that is about all! I hope this guide has given you a good insight into Byron Bay and all the amazing things it has to offer. Hopefully it has inspired you to visit or go back again, and you love this town as much as I did!