Things to do in the Byron Bay hinterland

Just beyond the beaches of Byron Bay, the hinterland opens up into a landscape of rolling green hills, creative villages, and rainforest escapes. It’s where you’ll find slower mornings, long lunches, and winding roads that lead to waterfalls, markets and tucked-away cafes.

Whether you’re chasing a relaxed day trip or planning a full weekend of exploring, the Byron Bay hinterland is best discovered one stop at a time.

Scenic hinterland drives from the coast

One of the best things to do in the Far North Coast hinterland is simply to drive. These scenic routes are ideal for half-day or full-day trips, with plenty of places to stop along the way. Drive times are approximate and don’t include stops.

Ballina or Lennox Head to Bangalow via Newrybar

Drive time: 25–35 minutes (direct), allow longer with stops

A gentle and scenic inland drive through rolling farmland and historic villages, this is a great introduction to the hinterland.

Stop in Newrybar for a browse at Newrybar Merchants, grab a coffee at The Providore, or visit The Farm Byron Bay for a relaxed, family-friendly stop with open space and casual dining.

Why it’s worth it:

• Easy, relaxed drive
• Great for food, shopping and coffee stops
• Family-friendly with plenty of space to explore

Brunswick Heads to The Channon

Drive time: 45–55 minutes

This lush drive winds through rainforest and small communities, with plenty of opportunities to stop along the way, and the quaint village of The Channon is perfect to explore.

Hot tip: Stop at the Channon General Store for coffee and supplies.

Why it’s worth it:

• A mix of rainforest and rural scenery
• Ideal for combining with a short walk or picnic
• Feels remote while still close to the coast

Lismore to Nightcap National Park

Drive time: 35–45 minutes

A beautiful drive into cooler rainforest country, best known for its waterfalls and walking tracks.

Stop at Minyon Falls lookout for sweeping valley views, or continue further into the park for picnic spots and quieter trails.

Why it’s worth it:

• Ideal for nature lovers and photographers
• A cooler escape on warmer days
• Best suited to older kids who enjoy walking tracks

Waterfalls and walking trails

The Far North Coast hinterland is home to some of the region’s most memorable nature experiences. Many walks can be done as part of a day trip from Byron Bay, with options for all fitness levels. Check out our full guide to all the Byron Bay waterfalls here.

• Minyon Falls (Nightcap National Park) - One of the most impressive waterfalls in the region, Minyon Falls plunges more than 100 metres into the valley below. The main lookout is accessed via a short, easy walk, making it suitable for most visitors.
• Killen Falls (near Tintenbar) - A popular and accessible waterfall close to Ballina and Lennox Head, Killen Falls features a short walk to the lookout, with a steeper track leading to the base for more confident walkers.
• Protesters Falls (near The Channon) - One of the most family-friendly waterfall walks in the region, this gentle 1.4km return track follows a creek through lush rainforest on a flat, shaded path.
• Other great walking areas include Victoria Park Nature Reserve and Goonengerry National Park.

Charming hinterland towns worth exploring

Small towns are at the heart of the Far North Coast hinterland, each with its own feel and pace.

Newrybar

Drive time from Byron Bay: 15 minutes

Small in size but big on charm, Newrybar is a go-to for food lovers and boutique browsing.

Great for:

• Homewares and lifestyle shopping at Newrybar Merchants
• Coffee or a casual bite at The Providore
• Visiting The Farm, Byron Bay, for a family-friendly stop

Bangalow

Drive time from Byron Bay: 15 minutes

One of the best-known hinterland towns, Bangalow, is full of character with its historic streets and vibrant local scene.

Great for:

• Cafés and bakeries, including Utopia Café
• A relaxed meal at the Bangalow Hotel
• Browsing homewares, boutiques and bookshops. Don't miss a visit to Our Corner Store

The Channon

Drive time from Byron Bay: 30 minutes

Creative, alternative and community-focused, The Channon offers a slower, more eclectic pace.

Great for:

• Visiting the Channon Market (second Sunday of the month)
• A relaxed stop at the Channon General Store
• Exploring nearby rainforest walks

Mullumbimby

Drive time from Byron Bay: 20 minutes

Known as the “biggest little town in Australia”, Mullumbimby has a laidback, creative energy and a strong sense of community.

• Organic cafes and local produce (think smoothie bowls, fresh bakes and relaxed brunch spots). Check out the Middle Pub for a classic country pub experience, or Santos Organics for all your organic groceries and snacks
• Markets and local makers, especially the Friday Mullumbimby Farmers Market. See all Byron Bay and hinterland markets
• Alternative culture and unique shopping (think crystals, vintage finds and artisan goods). Don't miss the Wandering Bowerbird for handmade and vintage pieces
• A slower pace - it's an easy place to wander without a plan

Federal

Drive time from Byron Bay: 25 minutes

Small, scenic and surrounded by farmland, Federal is a favourite for destination dining and relaxed countryside stops.

Great for:

• Japanese-inspired dishes at Doma Café
• Coffee and casual meals at the Federal Store
• A peaceful stop to stretch your legs and slow down

Clunes

Drive time from Byron Bay: 30 minutes

A small but popular hinterland stop, Clunes is perfect for a quick break on a scenic drive.

Great for:

• Lunch or a drink at Clunes Store & Cellars
• A quiet pause between Bangalow and Lismore

Lookouts and scenic stops

The hinterland offers plenty of quiet places to pull over and take in the views.

• Minyon Falls lookout: sweeping rainforest views
• Booyong lookout (near Alstonville): farmland and ocean glimpses
• Nightcap National Park lookouts: peaceful and uncrowded

Where to eat, drink and taste the hinterland

A hinterland day trip pairs perfectly with good food and drink, especially when it’s grown or made nearby.

Cafés, bakeries and long lunches

• The Farm Byron Bay – Located just outside the Byron Bay town centre in Ewingsdale, The Farm Byron Bay offers casual dining in an open, family-friendly setting
• Bangalow Hotel – a reliable option for families and groups
• Federal Store – casual meals and coffee in a relaxed setting
• Federal Doma Café – a destination for Japanese-inspired dishes

Breweries & distilleries

There are some great spots to stop for a drink in and around the hinterland.

• Common People Brewing Co (Bangalow): a smaller brewery with a local feel
• Husk Farm Distillery (near Tumbulgum): known for its rum and scenic farm setting

These venues are best suited to adults, though many offer outdoor seating and casual menus.

Fruit picking and farm experiences

Depending on the season, fruit picking is a great family-friendly activity in the hinterland.

You’ll find:

• Blueberry farms around Newrybar
• Strawberry farms near Lennox Head
• Citrus orchards throughout the region

Always check opening times before you go.

Farm gates and local produce

Part of the charm of the hinterland is discovering local produce along the way.

• Fresh fruit and vegetables around Alstonville and Rous
• Macadamia farms sell nuts and oils
• Roadside honesty stalls with flowers, eggs and avocados

Perfect for picnic supplies or edible souvenirs.

Art galleries and creative spaces

The hinterland’s creative spirit is reflected in its galleries and studios.

• Galleries and creative spaces in Bangalow and Mullumbimby
• Local studios and pop-ups, especially on market days
• Handmade goods, prints and artisan pieces

A perfect addition to your coastal holiday

One of the best things about staying on the Far North Coast is having both the beach and the hinterland so close. You can swim in the ocean in the morning, wander rainforest trails by lunchtime and be back at your coastal accommodation by sunset.

Wherever you are staying on the coast, the NSW Byron Bay hinterland is right on your doorstep.