Your Ultimate Guide to Byron Bay

Last Updated on October 23, 2022

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Written by Claire from Claires Footsteps

Beautiful Byron. This town is the only one that made me stay still and appreciate what was around me in 18 months of travelling.

And let me tell you, when it’s Byron that’s around you, it’s something very special.

Any guide to Byron Bay will tell you that it’s one of the most popular destinations on an east coast Australia road trip.

But where is Byron Bay? Well, it’s located right at the top of New South Wales, about 3 hours south of Brisbane and 10 hours north of Sydney.

Even though it’s very famous, it’s a tiny town; most of its businesses are lined up along one road, with a few shops and restaurants branching off to the side.

Those who visit Byron Bay will find a main street that leads up to a beautiful beachfront, where you can walk in either direction for Eden-like sands.

You can also climb up to the famous Byron Bay lighthouse, which is the most easterly point of the Australian mainland.

Unsurprisingly, Byron Bay’s beaches are a fantastic place to catch a good surf!

Beautiful beaches are definitely one of the main items on a Byron Bay itinerary, but the reason so many people stick around is the atmosphere of the town.

In Byron, shops are bursting with character. There are so many vibrant places to go in Byron Bay; everywhere is colourful.

It’s the kind of place where creativity is encouraged, people can wear whatever they feel without being judged and where talents thrive.

On a typical day in Byron Bay, you’ll walk past buskers, people selling jewellery, street artists and fire spinners – without even getting off the main street!

So, if you’re planning a Byron Bay road trip, here’s a comprehensive guide to Byron Bay to help you make the most of your time in the town.

🧳 MUST-HAVE: Before you head out on your trip, make sure you have travel insurance. I recommend either SafetyWing or World Nomads.

How to Get to Byron Bay

As aforementioned, Byron Bay is a popular stop on an east coast road trip, and it’s just a short detour from the main highway from Sydney to Brisbane.

The ease of getting to Byron Bay will vary depending on which method you choose to travel to Byron Bay.

Taking a Coach

If you’re taking the coaches up the east coast, Byron Bay is the main stop for Greyhound and Premier buses.

Taking a Train

If you want to take the train, it’s possible to catch one from Sydney Central to Casino and then get a bus transfer.

Taking a Plane

There are three airports nearby: Byron/Ballina, the Gold Coast and Brisbane.

Things to Do in Byron Bay

1. Hike up to the Lighthouse

One of the top things to do in Byron Bay, the lighthouse walk offers spectacular scenes of the town’s many beaches and its gorgeous hinterland.

For best views en-route, walk along Main Beach and climb up toward the lighthouse from Wategos. It’s an easy/moderate hike and takes about 30 minutes from the town centre.

2. Get your Groove On at the Drum Circle

The drum circle runs by main beach almost nightly; it is only called off it is too windy or wet. Expect drums (obviously), jazz instruments and lots of dancing.

If you have your own instrument, feel free to join into whatever beat that they are playing, or if you don’t, dance around while watching waves crash onto the shore.

There really isn’t a more quintessential Byron experience, and it’s one of the many free things to do in Byron Bay.

3. Take a Dip in Tea Tree Lakes

The tea tree lakes around Byron are so-called because of the excreted oil of the surrounding trees that mixes into the water.

They’re wonderfully scenic and are a fantastic chill spot, and swimming in them will leave your skin feeling refreshed and rejuvenated – the natural way.

Undoubtedly one of the best places to visit in Byron Bay.

4. Browse the Quirky Stores

When visiting a new town, sometimes one of the best things is to go shopping. Wondering what to do in Byron Bay? Just head out to the local stores!

Whether you want to purchase a colourful garment at The Rainbow Shop or invest in the materials to make jewellery at Beads, there’s plenty of beautiful items to purchase in Byron.

The stores are a hippie shopaholic’s paradise, and even if you’re strapped for cash, just wandering around and window shopping is a great Byron Bay weekend experience too.

5. Visit Tallows Beach

Many people will tell you that an an amazing week in Byron Bay will involve a visit to Tallows Beach.

All of the beaches in Byron Bay deserve a mention, but Tallows is pretty special. It’s the furthest from the town centre, which means that it gets about 1% of the number of tourists that visit Main Beach.

It’s home to white sand, blue seas and some of the aforementioned tea tree lakes! Make sure to add a walk along this stunning beachfront to your Byron bucket list.

💡 PACKING TIP: Make sure you bring a good snorkel, water shoes and a fast-drying towel for all of the beach-going you’re about to do!

6. Go to the Tree Sanctuary

Once upon a time, Byron was covered in rainforest.

Sadly, a lot of that has been destroyed, but there is a tree sanctuary halfway between town and The Arts Factory Lodge that is open for visitors.

A boardwalk ensures that no damage is made to the fragile ecosystem – and will also make sure that you’re not bitten by any snakes!

It’s a lovely place to relax and be with nature on your Byron Bay trip.

7. Take a Yoga Class

Places like Byron Bay practically scream ‘zen’, but if you’re having trouble finding your inner peace, try taking a yoga class.

Some hostels offer lessons, and there is also a yoga school very near The Arts Factory Hostel. If you’re keen to try meditation, there are classes at the community centre.

And if you really want to get in touch with your inner chi, there are plenty of opportunities to try reiki (natural healing) in Byron, or even the chance to become a reiki master yourself!

8. Attend the Arts Factory Lodge Talent Show

If you’re travelling with friends and wondering where to go in Byron Bay for something spontaneous and surprising, look no further than the Arts Factory Lodge!

This bohemian hostel, which is located a 10 minute walk out of town, attracts one thing in particular; talent. And every Tuesday, the best of this is shown to guests of the hostel.

Singers, dancers and hula hoopers all provide weekly entertainment at the show, so grab a bag of goon* and some pals and come and appreciate the best talent that Byron has to offer!

9. Catch some More Talent at the Beachfront

There’s one more thing that Byron Bay is famous for that is sadly not allowed at the Arts Factory talent show: fire spinning.

However, there are often free demonstrations along the beachfront, which are loved by tourists and locals alike.

If there’s no fire spinning, there’s probably busking or another circus trick. Just head down to the beachfront on an evening and discover what to see in Byron Bay!

📸 PRO TIP: My go-to camera for all my travels is the Sony A7iii – I highly recommend it!

Where to Eat and Drink in Byron Bay

There are heaps of great places to eat and drink in Byron, so many that it’s hard to choose just a few! Here are some of my favourites.

Restaurants

BayGer – This small takeaway-style restaurant serves up burgers of all kinds. The vegetarian options here are a delight – my favourite is the portobello mushroom burger.

I can’t comment on the meat options, but vegetarians and omnivores alike have commented on BayGer’s deliciousness!

Bombay 2 Byron – Byron Bay’s only Indian restaurant, Bombay 2 Byron has a diverse menu featuring curries and sides for every palate.

There are special lunchtime deals and it’s possible to bring alcohol on a BYO basis.

Miss Margarita – Feeling spicy? Miss Margarita is the idea fast-paced restaurant; it’s right by the beach, it serves delicious cocktails and amazing Mexican food.

It’s heaving at peak times, so maybe try to go for an early or late dinner!

Byron Fresh Café – My breakfast favourite, Byron Fresh has a huge variety of breakfast treats with lots of vegetarian and vegan options.

Its cappuccinos are to die for, and the juices are incredible too (I actually once bought three drinks in there because I couldn’t decide)! Choose from eating in the café or dining al fresco.

Balcony – Balcony Bar serves cocktails and posh nosh. It’s not cheap, but it’s well worth the splurge.

Because what beats sitting on a huge balcony in Byron Bay, sipping on a delicious cocktail?

Especially when you know that your only responsibilities for the day are relishing in the moment and maybe making it on time to catch the sunset?

Bars

Railway Bar – Located by the old railway station, the Railway Bar is often the first point of call for people going out in Byron Bay.

There’s live music at the weekends and ‘pub grub’ served during the day.

Many locals in Byron Bay travel here, so it’s always got a busy atmosphere, and the drinks are fairly priced. Open until midnight.

Beach Hotel – The home of Byron Bay’s famous reggae night, the Beach Hotel has a large bar space that’s perfect for drinking and later, dancing.

Reggae Night is every Monday, but there’s often live music events over the weekend as well.

The Northern – Both a pub and a music venue, the Northern is open for drinks every night, but often hosts concerts in its large backstage area. It’s open until later on the weekends.

The Sticky Wicket – The Sticky Wicket is foremostly a sports bar, but its monthly Apotheka night draws in crowds to the bar above, who come to dance away to techno beats.

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Where to Stay in Byron Bay

Budget

There’s no place quite like the Arts Factory Lodge – it’s one of the best cheap places to stay in Byron Bay.

Spread out over 5 acres, guests can enjoy didgeridoo lessons, yoga classes, an on-site café, weekly talent show, weekly quiz and guided bush walks.

Choose from staying in a dorm overlooking the pool, an ‘island retreat’ cabin, a tipi or even on the on-site campground.

🛌🏼 Check out the best accommodation options here

Mid-Range

Byron Sunseeker Motel is close to town but still enjoys free parking, as well as a pool, super clean rooms, BBQ facilities and helpful staff.

It’s walking distance to all the main attractions but far away enough to get a peaceful night’s sleep – perfect for any trip to Byron Bay.

🛌🏼 Check out the best accommodation options here

Luxury

The Crystalbrook Byron Luxury Resort is in possible the best area to stay in Byron Bay.

It’s perfect for those visiting Byron Bay on a special occasion or just seeking some top quality relaxation.

When you’re working out how long to stay in Byron Bay, don’t forget about this resort’s amenities!

With complimentary yoga classes, a beautiful pool area and surrounding rainforest, the hotel is perfect for a bit of R&R and unwinding time.

🛌🏼 Check out the best accommodation options here

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