Rating: 👍 Worth a Visit

Byron Bay is where boho spirit meets coastal luxury. Known for its surf culture, stunning beaches, rainforest hinterlands, and wellness scene, Byron is a place to slow down, tune in, and soak up the salty air. Ideal for surfers, creatives, spiritual seekers, and barefoot wanderers.

Top Things to Do

• Cape Byron Lighthouse Walk – Scenic coastal trail with dolphin and whale spotting.

• Main Beach & Clarkes Beach – Chill surf, sunrise swims, and long beach walks.

• Wategos Beach – Boutique beach hangout, perfect for a luxe picnic or slow swim.

• The Farm Byron Bay – Eat, explore, and meet animals on a working farm with a famous café.

• Crystal Castle – Rainforest walk + giant crystals = peaceful, spiritual vibes.

• Kayak with Dolphins – Paddle alongside wild dolphins and sometimes turtles.
  

How Many Days to Spend in Byron Bay

• Minimum: 2–3 full days – Soak up the sun at Main Beach, walk the Cape Byron Track to the lighthouse, and enjoy the local markets and surf culture.

• Ideal: 4–5 days – Add hinterland day trips to Killen Falls or Crystal Castle, try kayaking with dolphins, and explore the alternative scene in nearby Nimbin.

More time? Base yourself in Byron to explore the Northern Rivers region – Bangalow, Lennox Head, and Brunswick Heads are all charming nearby towns.

Best Time to Visit

• Spring (Sep–Nov): Warm, dry, and ideal for beach days without the peak crowds.

• Summer (Dec–Feb): Hot and buzzing — beach season, festivals, and nightlife.

• Autumn (Mar–May): Still warm, fewer crowds, and great for surfing.

• Winter (Jun–Aug): Mild weather, whale watching season, and cozy hinterland vibes.
  

Where to Stay

• Byron Town Centre: Walkable, close to shops, cafes, and Main Beach.

• Wategos Beach: Upscale, quiet, and beachfront luxury.

• Byron Hinterland: Eco-lodges, cabins, and retreats with rainforest views.

• Budget Stays: Wake Up! Byron Bay, Arts Factory Lodge, or beachside hostels.
  

Where to Eat & Drink

• Bayleaf Café: Legendary coffee + brunch.

• The General Store: Healthy, plant-based café in a heritage building.

• The Farm (Three Blue Ducks): Farm-to-table experience with a view.

• Raes on Wategos: Beachfront fine dining with a view.

• Byron Bay Brewery: Live music, local beer, and casual vibes.

• Light Years: Asian fusion with punchy cocktails and playful design.
  

Travel Tips

• Walk or cycle: Byron is small and very walkable.

• Car rental is recommended if exploring hinterlands or nearby waterfalls.

• Parking can be tricky—get in early, especially near the lighthouse.

• Byron is chill but expensive—budget ahead or mix luxe with local eats.

• Markets: Byron Bay (1st Sun), Bangalow (4th Sun), Mullumbimby (Fri).
  

Top Photo Spots

• Cape Byron Lighthouse at sunrise – Most easterly point in Australia.

• Wategos Beach stairs – Framed by palms with blue ocean behind.

• The Farm fields – Golden hour over paddocks and windmill.

• Minyon Falls Lookout – Epic inland views of the waterfall.

• Tallow Beach from above – Best drone shot spot near the lighthouse.
  

Budget Breakdown (per day)

• Accommodation: $80–$300+ AUD

• Food: $15–$50 AUD

• Activities: Many are free (beaches, walks), kayak tour ~$70–$90

• Transport: $0 if staying local, ~$70/day car rental if exploring further
  Tip: Pack a picnic and hit the beach—some of the best moments in Byron are totally free.

How to Get There

• Fly into Ballina Byron Airport (30 mins) or Gold Coast Airport (1 hr)

• Shuttle or rental car to Byron

• By car from Brisbane: ~2 hrs south via M1