Things to do in Byron Bay

Byron Bay, what a gem of a place! This little coastal town on the New South Wales North Coast is a hidden treasure waiting to be discovered. Trust us, after visiting Byron Bay, you'll never want to leave!

Byron Bay has some of the most amazing beaches in the world. Picture this: crystal-clear turquoise water, soft white sand, and perfect waves for surfing. Whether you're a pro or a beginner, you'll find your perfect wave in Byron Bay. And if you're not into surfing, no worries! There are plenty of other Byron Bay attractions and water activities to enjoy, like swimming, kayaking, or just lounging on the beach with a good book.

Find a moment of connection at Byron Bay today!

Surfing in Byron Bay

Grab your surfboard, put on your sunscreen, and get ready for an adventure you won't forget. As you explore the crystal-clear waters of Byron Bay, you'll be surrounded by breathtaking views. You'll see the famous Byron Bay Lighthouse perched on the hill, the golden sand beaches, and the lush greenery that lines the coast. It's like a postcard come to life!

But it's not just about the views. Keep your eyes peeled for dolphins, sea turtles, and even whales if you're lucky! Every winter, humpback whales migrate between Julian Rocks and the shoreline. If you're visiting Byron Bay at the right time, be sure to set time aside for whale watching.

For a kayaking adventure, and a chance to see marine life, join a guided sea kayak tour. There are plenty of experienced guides who can take you to the best spots and share their knowledge about the local flora and fauna. You can even do a sunset tour and watch the sun dip below the horizon while paddling along the calm waters.

Snorkelling and Scuba Diving

Off the coast of Main Beach is the Julian Rocks Nguthungulli Nature Reserve, a small group of rocky islands surrounded by reefs and underwater caves home to hundreds of species of marine life. Resting in the Cape Byron Marine Park, it is a critical habitat for Greynurse Sharks and a sanctuary from fishermen for many other species. It has many popular diving spots including The Nursey, The Needles, Hugo's Trench, The Code Hole, and The Cray Cave.

Cape Byron Lighthouse walk

The Cape Byron Lighthouse walk is a must-do adventure when exploring the east coast. It's like a treasure hunt, but instead of gold, you'll find stunning views and fresh sea breezes!

Tallow ridge track starts across the road from the Holiday Park and takes you all the way up to Cape Byron Lighthouse through Arakwal National Park, as you climb higher, you'll be rewarded with sweeping views of the ocean, the beach, and the surrounding landscape.

If that’s not enough, the trail continues along the coast around Cape Byron to the Little Wategos Track before descending to the scenic Wategos Beach. Keep your eyes peeled for wallabies, echidnas, and even whales if you're lucky! And the birdlife is incredible too, with Lorikeets, Parrots, and water birds soaring overhead.

Return to the park by following the Cape Byron Walking Track back to The Pass Café for food, drink, and a wind-down before following Clarkes Beach right to your cabin.

Byron Bay Hinterland

Take a day trip inland from Byron Bay to find picturesque villages like Bangalow, with its quaint cafes and boutiques. And don't forget about the stunning scenery - think sweeping views of the valley, towering waterfalls, and lush rainforest.

In the hinterlands, you'll find many more hiking opportunities, from conquering Mount Warning to discovering the natural gem of Minyon Falls.

Experience culture at the Byron Bay town centre

Byron Bay isn't just about the beaches. There's a whole community of people there who are dedicated to living a healthy and sustainable lifestyle. You'll find organic cafes, yoga studios, and even a farmer's market where you can buy fresh, locally-grown produce. It's like a little slice of heaven for anyone who's into wellness.

And let's not forget about the nightlife. Despite being a small town, Byron Bay has a buzzing nightlife scene. There are plenty of bars and restaurants to choose from, and live music is a staple in many of them. Whether you want to dance the night away or just chill with a few drinks, you'll find something to suit your mood.

But perhaps the best thing about Byron Bay is the laid-back, friendly vibe. The locals are welcoming and always up for a chat, and you'll find plenty of like-minded travellers to connect with too. It's the kind of place where you can truly relax and be yourself.

For more restaurants, cafes and coffees, check out our eating and drinking in Byron Bay guide, or check out our Byron Bay foodie guide with our top picks.

Hit the markets

Byron Bay has plethora of markets from community markets to foodie markets and definitely worth checking out.

Where to stay in Byron Bay

Reflections Byron Bay features tiny homes, glamping tents, cabins and campsites, the perfect base from which to explore the array of attractions in this article.