25 Best Things to Do in Byron Bay, Australia

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Fourteen beaches dot the Byron Bay Coastline, so every family member can find a favorite beach to visit. Some of the beaches, like Tyagarah Beach and Broken Head Beach, have clothing-optional areas, so be sure to research which beach you want to take young children to. Main Beach is directly across from the town of Byron Bay. This beach is very popular for those who want to snorkel since a shipwreck is located just off the coast teeming with marine life. Main Beach is also patrolled by lifeguards regularly, so this is a safer beach for those with small ones.

© Byron at Byron

Another fantastic resort in Byron Bay is Byron at Byron, a Crystalbrook Collection Resort. This resort and spa is nestled between the water and the rainforest, providing an atmosphere found nowhere else on the planet. During the day, you can laze around on the soft sands, take in a wellness experience at the spa, or stroll through the flora and fauna in the rainforest. Once you’ve exhausted your body, head back to your room – standard, deluxe, or spa deluxe – to reboot before heading to dinner. The restaurant offers lunch and dinner options, as well as a room service menu.

77-97 Broken Head Road, Byron Bay NSW 2481, Australia, Phone: 61-2-66-39-20-00

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At the Easternmost tip of the continent, Cape Byron Lighthouse sits proudly to remind Aussies of seafaring days past. Settled in Cape Byron State Conservation Area, this lighthouse and maritime museum is free for all who want to come. The lighthouse is still used with an automated light today, which replaced the need for a keeper in 1989. Tours are offered regularly that provide information about the history of the lighthouse and local shipwrecks. Guests are encouraged to bring binoculars to watch for whales and marine life from the top of the lighthouse.

199 Lighthouse Road, Byron Bay SNW 2481, Australia, Phone: 61-02-66-39-83-00

© The Farm

Open seven days a week, The Farm is a commune-type setting where you can learn about farming, eat, socialize, and take part in community service. The restaurant on-site, Three Blue Ducks, uses all farm-grown ingredients and sources out other needed ingredients as close to The Farm as possible. The Bread Social is the bakery where guests can purchase fresh bread, pastries, and other goodies. And though food is the focus of The Farm, guests can also take part in workshops, spending time in one of the nurseries, keep the kids busy learning about farming, or just take a horseback ride through The Farm.

11 Ewingsdale Road, Ewingsdale NSW 2481, Australia, Phone: 61-2-66-84-78-88

© Elements of Byron

If you’re deciding on a place to stay while in Byron Bay, Elements of Byron is the Byron Bay luxury resort to check out. This intimate resort has eight freestanding villa styles to choose from for your vacationing needs. You’ll feel as if your villa is an oasis away from the bustle of Byron Bay. Once on the resort property, you’ll barely find a reason to leave. Restaurants and bars deliver to your room, poolside, or directly to a table at one of the fine dining restaurants. An on-site spa blends nature and relaxation with all-natural massages, facials, and spa treatments.

144 Bayshore Drive, Byron Bay NSW 2481, Australia, Phone: 61-2-66-39-15-65

© Gaia Retreat and Spa

Byron Bay is home to some of the most relaxing retreats in Australia. At Gaia Retreat and Spa, you’ll have more than a day experience, you can also book a retreat package, which includes your hotel room, all meals, and several spa and wellness treatments designed to rejuvenate, relax, and pamper you. You can also include specialty addons, such as detox and cleanse, weight loss, or mindfulness to give you a targeted spa experience. Many packages are built for couples or two people, but all packages can be upgraded for two people. If you plan to do ala carte, you’ll find yoga and fitness activities, as well as a naturopathic clinic.

933 Fernleigh Road, Brooklet NSW 2479, Australia, Phone: 61-2-66-87-12-16

© Combi

Australia knows how to do coffee right. Combi was once a café on wheels, has transformed into a regular shop, and once again opened a moving café van. You can find the traveling Combi van at festivals and events. More important than location is that Combi is dedicated to bringing you healthy, nutritious tea, coffee, and treat options. Combi uses only reusable mugs and asks patrons to bring their own travel mug if they prefer. They compost all coffee grounds in a local park and offer guests both dairy and non-dairy options. A popular option is coffee delivered in a fresh green coconut that has been just opened and drained.

5B 21-25 Fletcher Street, Byron Bay NSW 2481, Australia

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At Folk Byron Bay, you’ll find local, organic food and coffee. Following all ethical standards, Folk provides some of the best vegan food in the area. Try out one of the vegan burrito or nourish bowls that Folk is famous for with locals. You’ll never even notice that your food is lacking meat products when you dive into house-made naan bread, chili oil, and other chutneys to enjoy with your daily house special. Don’t be deterred by the long lines for a table, that’s just the locals letting you know it’s a favorite hot spot.

1/399 Ewingsdale Road, Byron Bay NSW 2481, Australia

© Island Luxe

Island Luxe is designed with traveling men and women in mind. Though most of the clothing and furniture is geared toward the nomadic lifestyle, these styles can be work in nearly any setting. Many of the furniture and accessory pieces are created by local artisans, providing unique and one-of-a-kind items for purchase. Patrons can look for clothing, accessories, shoes, boots, and hats while browsing through cultural and tribal items brought back from trips to foreign locales. Rather than bending to the expectations of society, guests are inspired to shop for themselves and their style.

62 Byron Street, Bangalow NSW 2479, Phone: 61-2-66-87-16-05

© Spell Boutique

Spell Boutique houses clothing from Spell & The Gypsy Collective. As the name implies, patrons will discover bohemian style apparel that is perfect for the Outback weather. Flowing and light, these women’s designs can make anyone look boho-chic while working with the Earth to provide gorgeous styles and comfortable clothes. Many styles revolve around lightweight dresses that are sure to dress you up or down, no matter the setting. Look like an Aussie native with this laidback and trendy collection. If you regret not grabbing that tunic while on holiday, most styles and prints are available online.

15 Browning Street Byron Bay NSW 2481, Australia, Phone: 62-2-91-59-62-55

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Established in 1976, The Channon Craft Market has expanded and moved since its inception. Today, the market is held on the second Sunday of every month. This market is full of craft stalls, freshly made and grown food items, food vendors, and entertainers. Those visiting the market will be pleased with the offerings around the stalls, knowing that each stall must provide at least 75% handmade or personally grown items. People come from all over to the market, bussing in tons of market-goers. Be sure to make The Channon Craft Market part of your vacation plans.

The Channon Road, The Channon NSW 2480, Australia, Phone: 61-2-66-88-64-33

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Each year, Byron puts together a Writers Festival to encourage creativity and art in the NSW area. Though the festival is held once a year, Byron Writers Festival is a group that provides workshops and professional development throughout the year. They provide a children’s writing program and weekly writing hours for members to gather with other writers. Mentorships – including some paid ones – are sponsored through the organization. Be sure to check out the workshops that are held throughout the year, as these are planned far enough in advance to work them into your vacation schedule.

Level 1, 28 Jonson Street, Byron Bay, NSW 2481, Phone: 62-2-66-85-51-15

© Byron Bay Brewery

Byron Bay Brewery was established in 2004 when a South African man decided to expand his love for making beer outside the home. Today, guests of all kinds are welcome to the Brewery and are encouraged to have a drink and share a story. Lagers are the most popular at Byron Bay Brewery, with four of the five regular brews being lagers. Seasonal lagers are on tap, so be sure to find out what the newest offering is. Beer isn’t the only thing served up at Byron Bay Brewery. A delicious menu of burgers, loaded fries, and other tavern goodies can be paired with your lagers.

1 Skinners Shoot Road, Byron Bay NSW 2481, Australia, Phone: 61-2-66-39-61-00

© Stone & Wood

New to Stone & Wood Brewery is the opportunity to be a brewer for a day. The fully-immersive packages get you a tour of the brewery, as well as tastings right from the tanks. The package also includes a pub crawl through town, breakfast, lunch, and special merchandise. Along with regular and seasonal beers, Stone & Wood offers Pilot batches, which are creative beers put together by whoever happens to have an idea. These batches are only available until they are gone and may never be seen again. Two of the most popular beers are the Jasper Ale and the Cloud Catcher Pale Ale.

100 Centennial Circuit, Byron Bay NSW 2481, Australia, Phone: 61-2-66-85-51-73

© Three Blue Ducks

Three Blue Ducks has four locations, one of which is in Byron. Starting with The Farm, Three Blue Ducks worked to create a delicious ad thoughtful meal, taking into consideration all ingredients and what they would mean for a dish. While it’s true that a certain spice may travel from afar, most ingredients are locally sourced and grown. Most importantly, ingredients are carefully selected to provide the best flavor with the least environmental impact. Most menus are ala carte, though there are specific fixed prix meals to consider, such as the Sunday Roast, which comes with two courses of locally farmed meats and Stone & Wood Ales.

11 Ewingsdale Road, Ewingsdale NSW 2481 Australia, Phone: 61-2-66-84-77-95

© Miss Margarita

For Mexican food, check out Miss Margarita Byron Bay. Owned by Byron locals, Emma and Greg Thomson, Miss Margarita Mexican Cantina brings the flavors of Mexico across the oceans to Australia. While the food is remarkable, drinks are also quite popular at this hot spot. Guests are encouraged to grab a drink and sit on the deck watching people on the busy street pass by. When your table is called, dig into enchiladas, burritos, tacos, changas, and nachos. There is a take out menu available, so be sure to check it out if you don’t have time to wait for a table. Be advised, this hotspot gets busy around dinner time, so be prepared to wait for a table.

2 Jonson Street, Byron Bay NSW 2481, Australia, Phone: 61-2-66-85-68-28

© Byron Community Centre

Byron Markets is a fun and unique experience to showcase everything the Byron Bay community has to offer. Throughout three different markets, you’ll have a unique experience at each and be able to buy locally made goods and food. The first Sunday of the month sees the Byron Community Market on Butler Street, while the Byron Beachside Market is held only four times a year on Main Beach. The most unique offering is the Byron Twilight Markets every Saturday night from October through April. Holistic services, homemade crafts, and live entertainment are just a few offerings at these markets.

Main Beach Foreshore Denning Park, Byron Bay NSW 2481, Australia, Phone: 61-2-66-85-68-07

© Cape Byron Distillery

While Australia is known for good lager and ales, Cape Byron Distillery focuses its work on spirits. This distillery is built in the heart of the rainforest, using local botanicals for their Brookie’s Byron Dry Gin (17 of the 25 are sourced from this rainforest). The newest addition to the Cape Byron Distillery family is whiskey using all Scottish techniques to bring a fine blend to the other end of the world. Every weekend, tours of the distillery and local rainforest are available, followed up with a tasting back at the distillery.

80 St Helena Road, McLeods Shoot NSW 2479, Australia, Phone: 61-2-66-84-79-61

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To get the most of Byron Bay and the nature that is offered, a tour is the best option. When you prefer to see the area on your own, seek out Cape Byron Walking Track, a 3.7 km loop that circles Cape Byron Lighthouse and takes you through the rainforest and up along the coastal cliffs. There is even a self-guided tour app that can be downloaded to your phone to provide information and tips as you walk the loop. Be sure to keep an eye out for wild animals and marine life, like whales, as you walk. Finish your walk by climbing the lighthouse for even more incredible views.

199 Lighthouse Road, Byron Bay NSW 2481, Australia, Phone: 61-2-66-39-83-00

© Beach Byron Bay

Byron Bay is a beach town, and many locals want to take advantage of that atmosphere by creating beautiful beachy retreats and restaurants. Beach Byron Bay is a restaurant right on the water at Clarkes Beach that offers fresh food inspired by the area’s local culture. Whether you’re hungry for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, Beach Byron Bay has you covered. On top of offerings for each meal, a takeout kiosk offers bacon and egg rolls for breakfast and local fish and chips for lunch. Dining in provides a more elegant experience, with menu items such as Moreton Bay bug ravioli with braised leeks and a prawn emulsion.

Clarkes Beach, 2 Massinger Street, Byron Bay NSW 2481, Australia, Phone: 13-00-58-37-66

© Il Buco

Il Buco Café & Pizzeria is open every day for dinner. Though the recipes are authentic Italian, Il Buco makes their pizzas and salads with as many local ingredients as possible. They support local businesses and farms while using local distributors for out-of-town ingredients to prevent too many gas emissions. Staying true to Italian roots, the antipasti and light options are ingredient-focused and are not meant to be greasy and heavy. Consider the Caprese, bruschetta, or the burrata (a whole mozzarella ball with a side of bread, olives, and Parma ham). Around 20 pizzas mean that even a fussy eater is likely to find something great to eat, and the desserts are some Italian favorites (tiramisu and pannacotta).

4/4 Bay Lane, Byron Bay NSW 2481, Australia, Phone: 61-2-66-80-91-86

© Raes on Wategos

If you want an out-of-the-box experience staying as far from the corporate takeover of hotel chains, consider Raes on Wategos, a self-proclaimed boutique hotel experience. This luxury hotel includes accommodations just a skip from Wategos Beach. Suites and penthouses are the only types of accommodation, so expect to be spoiled on your trip. Besides your time in your room, be sure to check out the spa treatments offered on-site and make sure to get to the dining room for a truly luxurious lunch or dinner meal. Be sure to enjoy the views from your room, and then head down to the beach for a day of taking in the surf and sand.

6-8 Marine Parade, Byron Bay NSW 2481, Australia, Phone: 61-2-66-85-53-66

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Who doesn’t want to experience Japanese and Australian in a fusion of truly unique and delicious recipes? Bellingen Qudo Café & Sake combines these two cultures for lunch and dinner options. Walking up to the plantation-style 107-year old home may feel like you’re stepping back to an older era, but the food is nothing but modern. Check out some of the small starters, like sweet potato tempura or sashimi tuna salsa. After you break your fast, dive into the many sushi, vegan, and entrée offerings. Check out the Kingfish carpaccio or the Haccho Miso glazed lamb ribs. If you’re still not full, desserts include crème brulee, matcha pannacotta, and a blueberry raw cake.

121 Hyde Street, Bellingen NSW 2479, Australia, Phone: 61-2-66-55-97-57

© Bayleaf Café & Catering

Whether you’ve been up hitting the pubs, catching early morning waves, or just wanting to get a jump on the day, Bayleaf Café & Catering is the place to stop for fresh, delicious breakfast options. Bayleaf uses all local ingredients and vendors to create their dishes and coffees. Since Bayleaf provides catering for local events, they branch out to include burgers, salads, and more. However, eating on-site guarantees you’ll get the full local experience, even seeing artwork from local artists and being able to purchase locally made goods and foods. A space outside is perfect for a rotating mural, as artists take over the space for what they want to display.

2A Marvell Street, Byron Bay NSW 2481, Australia

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Food and wine are the focus of Fleet. When you’re ready to experience Australia with a luxurious meal, you’ll head to Fleet. A Fixed Prix menu consists of eight courses. Paired with local and international wines, the menu items compliment each other while focusing on sustainability. An ala carte menu is available for lunch, as well as the degustation style meal. Should you have any dietary preferences, they should be clearly explained when making your reservation, which is required. Expect an intimate dining experience, since Fleet can only seat 14 guests at a time.

2/16 The Terrace, Brunswick Heads NSW 2483, Australia, Phone: 61-2-66-85-13-63