For anyone travelling to Australia, usually Byron Bay is at the top of the list of places to visit. This hippy town has enchanted visitors, hippy or not, for generations. It is hard to explain, but one usually feels immediately relaxed on arrival. With chain establishments few and far between, “Byron” (as the locals say) has an identity of its own. I usually visit for a few days at least once a year, as Byron often gives me a bit of a recharge. I have my go-to favourites, but on my most recent trip I discovered a few more places worth exploring.
Stay
The Byron at Byron Resort and Spa: I’ve mentioned my love for this resort before, but it deserves another mention. Located a bit out-of-town, this is the ultimate spot for relaxation.
The Atlantic Byron Bay: A perfectly designed guesthouse in the centre of Byron Bay.
See and Do
Beaches
Byron’s beaches are probably the best aspect about this small town. With a handful of beaches, you can visit a different beach each day. Check out Belongil Beach, The Wreck, Main Beach, Clarkes Beach, The Pass, Watego’s Beach, Cosy Corner, and Tallow Beach, all have their own special quality.
Water Sports
Where there are beaches, there are water sports. You can try anything from surfing and stand up paddle boarding to kayaking and scuba diving.
Cape Byron Walk
Starting at Captain Cook’s Lookout near Clarkes Beach, this 3.7 km loop takes you along Australia’s most easterly point. It’s perfect for spotting whales and dolphins, along with basking in Cape Byron Lighthouse.
Shopping
Believe it or not, Byron is known for amazing shopping. The many boutiques stock brands and pieces hard to come by anywhere else in Australia. Additionally, many famous Australian designers got their start in Byron, like Spell and Tallow.
Surrounds
Though Byron offers more than enough for a relaxing vacation, you’ll be tempted by the beautiful hinterland surrounding the town. It is worth driving the country roads and grabbing a bite to eat in Newrybar, Bangalow, and Federal.
Markets
Dependent on your timing, you might be able to catch the Byron Bay Market, during the first Sunday of the month, or the Bangalow Market, during the fourth Sunday of the month, for artisan creations and yummy food.
Eat
Top Shop: This cute café serves their own freshly bottled juice, along with my favourite berry bowl!
Mokha: A café overlooking the main strip for a classic breakfast and good smoothies.
Orgasmic Food Byron Bay: A hole in the wall Egyptian café, serving the best Egyptian falafel.
Beloporto Burgers: Another hole in the wall for quick fix burgers with all the fixings.
Byron Fresh: This cute café close to Main Beach is perfect for people watching while enjoying good food and drinks.
The Balcony: A Byron institution, enjoyed best during happy hour.
Asia Joes: This little Asian fusion restaurant is fun, especially with your own BYOB of wine.
Italian at the Pacific: This is my favourite restaurant in Byron, serving great Italian food in a lovely setting.
St Elmo: A nice wine bar specialising in Spanish tapas.
Miss Margarita: This Mexican cantina has quickly become a Byron institution.
Harvest (Newrybar): This restaurant is the perfect treat for a local lunch.
Town (Bangalow): A cute café best enjoyed on the back patio.
Doma (Federal): I can’t help but wonder what a Japanese café is doing in the middle of the Australian hinterland. Though I’m happy I discovered this anomaly.
Go
Located just south of the Gold Coast, Byron Bay is a two-hour drive from Brisbane. Alternatively, flights operate from Ballina Byron Gateway Airport to Sydney and Melbourne.
jaunt and flaunt
jaunt and flaunt 