High on bucket lists the world over, Byron Bay is a favourite for its relaxed, coastal vibe. With an eclectic mix of people and influences Byron Bay has well earnt the hype. Australia’s most easterly point conjures up images of picture-perfect beaches, unique shopping, quality dining, world-class festivals and laid-back hippies. The reality is all walks are attracted to this beachside melting pot and they return time and time again.
BEST TIME TO GO TO BYRON BAY
Byron Bay has warm, temperate weather all year round. School holidays are busy, especially over December and January. If you want to miss the crowds but still get in plenty of beach time, then Spring and Autumn are a great time to visit. Festivals and events go hand in hand with Byron Bay, and there is something on pretty much all year round. Check out the Byron Bay events calendar for the event that tickles your fancy and get planning.
THINGS TO DO IN BYRON BAY
Visiting Cape Byron Lighthouse is a must and although you can drive, the best way to get there is via the Cape Byron Walking Track. The views from Australia’s easternmost point are spectacular and even better at sunrise. From Clarkes Beach (at the eastern end of Main Beach) follow the walking track east. The loop track brings you roadside for the return journey, but if you want to stay beachside, just return the way you came. The return journey is about two hours.
With a range of beaches to choose from in and around Byron, beach time is a must. Explore some of the lesser known beaches like Tallows and Wategos. Or get out on the water surfing, kayaking, fishing or snorkelling.
The FarmThis 80 acre working farm is open to the public for a grow, feed and educate experience. You’ll find a café, florist, bakery, horse riding, animal interaction and more. There are even workshops for everything from honey harvesting to biodynamics and egg farming. This one is a definite for your list.
Venture into the Byron Bay Hinterland for an adventure that not all Byron visitors will take. Visit the 60’s psychedelic township of Nimbin, search out hidden waterfalls or conquer Mt Warning. Stop at local roadside food stalls for some good old fashioned flavour or just take in a stunning scenic drive.
BEST FOOD AND DRINK IN BYRON BAY
Byron Bay is brimming with bustling cafes, health food havens and really cool restaurants. From organic, ethical and green to robust, ethnic and intriguing. Byron Bay has you covered. Foodies who like to linger, savour and maybe even café hop, have found their nirvana. It has been said though, that if you want the really good nosh then you need to get out of Byron itself and delve into the nearby hamlets and villages. Think local produce, chefs of notoriety and ultimate paddock to plate experiences. Try one of these on for size:
Three Blue Ducks at The Farm, Ewingsdale
The townsfolk of Byron are not just run of the mill and the same can be said for the coffee. You will not have to venture far for great coffee, kombucha or chai. Try Bayleaf for its inventive coffee menu. Or head to Beach. You literally won’t get any closer (to the beach that is). Other notables are longtime local favourite Espressohead and Byron Fresh. Out of the main centre try 100 Mile Table or Folk. Two favourites with the locals. But get exploring and find yourself a local that will become your little bit of routine for your holiday. Almost all of them are bustling so you know you are onto a winner.
BEST SHOPPING IN BYRON BAY
Shopping in Byron Bay is next level. Byron Bay’s new age past is not lost with hippy lifestyle shops, funky vintage stores, designer boho boutiques and spiritual healings. Byron Bay is a mecca for creative and alternative cultures. Head out to the Byron Arts and Industry Estate for locally inspired and designed art, products and other creative treasures.
WHERE TO STAY IN BYRON BAY
Byron Bay and surrounds have a plethora of holiday homes, apartments and cottages to suit your needs and desires. Need to be close to town? No problem. Want a hillside hideaway? Can do. Need four bedrooms? No issue. Want a pool? Absolutely. Take a peek at what Search and Stay have available. Regardless of your desired holiday experience, you will find all the Byron holiday accommodation options you need at Search and Stay.
TRAVELLING WITH KIDS TO BYRON BAY
Travelling with kids to Byron Bay is up there with red wine and cheese. It just works. The relaxed vibe etches itself into the kids’ psyche. And just like that, you can let out a collective family sigh. Beach time will likely be the kids favourite but there are plenty of other activities too. Head to The Farm for a hands-on rural experience that will leave city kids with dropped jaws and bulging eyes. Get them surfing or stand up paddle boarding lesson. Hire bikes or go snorkelling. For more inspiration, take a look at Byron Bay things to do.
THE HISTORY OF BYRON BAY
Aboriginal communities have lived and frequented the Byron Bay area for approximately 22 thousand years. Cape Byron, or “Walgun”, is known to the local Arakwal people as a place for ceremony, learning and spiritual inspiration. James Cook named the area Cape Byron after a fellow sailor in 1770. Industries such as logging, mining gold from beach sand and primary production (dairy, fishing and whaling) have all flourished at some point. Surfers arrived in the 1960s and its reputations soon grew as an alternative, hippy town. It became popular with travellers from all walks of life, as it continues to today.
SEARCH AND STAY SECRET TIP
Broken Head Beach is just 10 minutes south of Byron Bay, in the Broken Head Nature Reserve. With beautifully calm waters that stretch out to the offshore break, it is the ideal sundowner beach. With the panoramic view stretching from Cape Byron to Lennox Head, you won’t want to be in a rush. Pack a rug, basket of nibbles and some bubbles.
For those feeling a little more energetic, wander through the rainforest to Three Sisters walking track to the lookout, perfect during whale watching season. Or go for a rock hop to find yourself an even more secluded slice of beach. Just make sure it’s low tide.
Find your perfect Byron Bay holiday rental at Search and Stay.
For more information go to Visit Byron Bay.
