5 Unforgettable Things to Do in Byron Bay
You’d be hard pressed to find a beach destination more popular and iconic than Byron Bay in Australia’s New South Wales. Known for its beautiful weather, natural beauty, buzzing food scene and boho, free-spirited vibe, it has firmly cemented its place on almost every traveller’s east coast itinerary. If you’re planning a trip down under, here are five unforgettable things to do in Byron Bay, guaranteed to make you want to return year after year.
Beach-hop
Frustrated by Europe’s rocky, overcrowded beaches? You’ll find yourself in sandy heaven in Byron Bay. While the town gets very busy during peak season, there are more than enough beaches to go around for everyone.
You could even visit a different beach on every day of your visit! Wategos Beach and Clarkes Beach are firm favourites among visitors, while The Pass is the most popular spot for surfers.
Explore the hinterland
Even though you could easily laze away your days in Byron Bay alone, it would be a shame not to venture into the nearby hinterland at least once. The roads weave through the lush sub-tropical rainforest and little towns full of character are sprinkled around.
Venture inland a little further and you’ll find yourself in the World-Heritage listed Nightcap National Park, full of hiking trails and gushing waterfalls.
Plan your days around the food
There are so many incredible foodie hot spots to try in Byron Bay that you’ll need to plan your days carefully in order to sample them all! There’s a strong focus on ethical, local and sustainable produce here and the quality of food options is more reminiscent of a capital city than a small beach town.
Fulfil your wildest brunch fantasies at The Byron Bay General Store, Combi or The Top Shop and a meal at Three Blue Ducks at The Farm will undoubtedly be a highlight of your trip.
Hike the Lighthouse loop
Pull on your sneakers one cool morning and hike the Cape Byron walking track. Set aside two hours for the 3.7km return trail, which weaves in an out through rainforest and hugs the rocky coastline. Just when you’ve worked up a big enough sweat, the path will open and you’ll find yourself at Australia’s most easterly point.
Not too much further beyond this is the iconic Cape Byron Lighthouse. While you’re catching your breath, gaze down into the ocean below and you might be lucky enough to spot a pod of playful dolphins or, if it’s the season for it, even a migrating whale or two!
Shop up a storm
It’s quite the challenge to not spend all your money in Byron Bay’s cute little boutiques. Sure, this beach town has its fair share of surf shops but you’ll also find beautiful homewares stores, boho chic clothing and garage sales every second Saturday.
Instagram has helped transform Byron Bay into a worldwide fashion destination, with the likes of Spell & The Gypsy Collective, Auguste the Label and Arnhem Clothing all designed right here.
This guest post was written by Rachel Bale.
