Top 11 things to do in Byron Bay

Chances are, you probably have heard of a town called Byron Bay, situated in Northern New South Wales. Whether you have been there or have heard of this magical hippie town, you should know that Byron Bay is charged with all sorts of positive energies and good vibes.

Byron Bay is a versatile place that is full of great times for everyone. Whether you are an ocean lover, a snazzy shopaholic, a photographer, or a wanderer, Byron Bay has got it all. Not only does Byron Bay offer an immense amount of beauty, but Byron Bay’s surrounding areas/towns are equally as amazing.

Byron Bay’s popularity started in the 60s. It was known as an alternate surf village and home to many hippies. It continues holding much of its original easy-going vibe, but as time has changed, so does Byron Bay. It is like fine wine - only gets better over time. Byron Bay has 9 stunning beaches and they offer some of the country’s best surf. Don’t worry about not finding a spot on the beach on a hot summer day, as most of Byron Bay beaches are stretched out for kilometres - there will always be a spot for you. 

These are the top 11 things you should do in Byron Bay: 

1. Go surfing
2. Hit the beach
3. Whale watching
4. Scuba diving/snorkelling
5. Hike the iconic Cape Byron lighthouse walk 
6. Visit local markets
7. Shop 'til you drop
8. Check out the Cape Byron Marine Park (kayak trips are available) 
9. Eat at wonderful cafes
10. Visit nearby towns (such as Nimbin)
11. Visit the Stone and Wood Brewery

1. Go Surfing

Surfing is what gained Byron Bay its fame. If you have not already, why not try surfing? If you are a surfer, then be sure to visit all the wonderful beaches in Byron Bay, you might even see some friendly pods of dolphins or seasonal visitors like humpback whales. For non-surfers out there who want to try surfing, Byron Bay is home to many amazing surf schools. If you are interested in starting your surf journey with one of the surf schools, click here for more information. Once you get the hang of it, you’ll be riding waves on your own in no time - just like the locals.

2. Hit the Beach

As mentioned, Byron Bay is home to spectacular beaches. These beaches are unique and offer their own charms. Here are the must-visit beaches:

• Main Beach
• The Pass
• Belongil Beach
• Tallow Beach
• Clarkes Beach
• Wategos Beach
• The Wreck

Be sure to wear your sunscreen and be sun-safe when you visit these dazzling beaches. For those who are not a strong swimmer, or is not familiar with rip currents, it is best if you swim between the flags where lifeguards are present. Check signage before entering the water for your own safety.

3. Whale Watching

Did you know that Byron Bay used to be a whaling station in the 1950s? Thanks to our modern society’s understanding of nature and animal compassion, we have moved away from harming these majestic aquatic mammals to admiring them (safely) instead. Have you ever seen a humpback whale? It is certainly an indescribable feeling when you do see one jumping out of the water, or simply just surfacing for air. If you have never seen them before, make sure that you put this activity on your list. Whales can be seen from as early as May to November every year. Click here for more information on whale watching trips available in Byron Bay. To get super intimate, you can go kayaking with dolphins during whale season for a chance to see humpbacks in the most eco-friendly way. 

Kayak with Dolphins

4. Scuba Diving/Snorkelling

Nguthungulli Nature Reserve, or also known as Julian Rocks, is one of the most versatile dive sites on the East Coast.  This site is said to be one of the top Australian dive sites for many divers. As a dive professional myself, who had the opportunity to dive in many places around the world, Julian Rocks would have to be in my top 3. This beautiful marine reserve is protected, and any form of fishing is banned around the 500m radius of the rocks. Julian Rocks are home to many marine species,  including the super friendly grey nurse sharks and adorable leopard sharks. If you are lucky, you might even see a manta ray! 

5. Hike the iconic Cape Byron lighthouse walk 

This is the most iconic hike in Byron Bay. The name of this hike is called the Cape Byron lighthouse walk. This walk will provide you with breathtaking views of Byron Bay’s coasts and hinterland. During your walk, you will be exposed to spectacular coastline and bush sceneries. Throughout the walk you might encounter some beautiful wildlife - both land and sea. Keep an eye out for the local wallabies. Be sure to wear closed shoes for your own comfort and take a bottle of water with you. Throughout this walk, there are benches all around the trail.

This walk is so Instagrammable - it is nearly impossible not to upload snaps onto your social media, or even just sharing it with family and friends. Depending on the season, you might even be able to catch a glimpse of Humpback whales surfacing.

6. Visit local markets

If you want to experience Byron Bay like a local, be sure to visit some of the local markets. Byron Bay is a place with a strong sense of community and these markets offer just that. Whether you are a foodie, or just love to browse around for local products, these markets showcase the best of what Byron Bay and the surrounding areas  have to offer. The two most well-known markets in Byron Bay are Thursday Farmers market and The Sunday Community Market (which only happens every 1st Sunday of the month for Byron Bay).

Be sure to check the calendar to see when these markets are on. Click here for more information.

7. Shopping

Byron Bay is known for shopping. Many Byron Bay based brands are also known internationally. Byron Bay town itself offers a variety of stores - mainly local brands. If you are a fashion lover, be sure to visit some of the local branded stores. These are my recommended shops:

1. Thrills
2. Afends
3. Spell and the Gypsy
4. Arnhem
5. Kivari
6. Rowie

8. Check out the Cape Byron Marine Park

There are many ways to check out the beautiful Cape Byron Marine Park. As mentioned before, scuba diving and snorkelling are amazing ways to take a glimpse into the underwater world. However, there are many more ways to explore Cape Byron Marine Park. The wall of Cape Byron Marine Park stretches from Brunswick Heads to Lennox Head - about 37km long.

One of the best ways to be in touch with nature while exploring Cape Byron Marine Park is to venture out on a kayaking with dolphins trip. Yes - you read it right, DOLPHINS! Not only will you see dolphins but chances are that you might even get to see other amazing aquatic animals on these guided trips. Click here for more information.

9. Cafes

Byron Bay and its surrounding areas are known for many wonderful restaurants and cafes. Byron Bay town alone is home to several wonderful cafes that cater to people with every dietary needs. Whether your diet is plant-based or someone who loves to try new things that are locally sourced - Byron Bay is the place.

These are some of our favourites:

1. Folk Cafe
2. Barrio (The Habitat)
3. Bayleaf Cafe
4. The General Store
5. Sunday Sustainable
6. Treehouse on Belongil
7. Combi Byron Bay
8. Wide Open Road Coffee Roasters
9. High Life Cafe

10. Visit nearby towns (such as Nimbin)

There are many other awesome towns just outside of Byron Bay to be explored. They all have their own uniqueness, but most importantly they share similar (chill out and relax) vibes. There are several places that are a “should-visit” during your Byron Bay stay. Nimbin and the waterfalls should definitely be on your list. Other towns such as Mullumbimby, Brunswick Heads and Lennox Heads are also awesome. Whether you want to explore the wonderful hinterland or spectacular beaches, there are many options out there for you to explore.

If you are looking for an awesome way to explore Nimbin and some amazing waterfalls, there is the iconic Happy Coach tour that leaves from Byron Bay. Check out what they are all about by clicking here. This is an awesome opportunity for you to collect some memories that will last a lifetime.

11. Visit the Stone and Wood Brewery

If you are a beer lover, this one is for you. You cannot visit Byron Bay without visiting Byron Bay’s local brewery, ‘Stone and Wood’. The brewery focuses on making craft beers with local hops. The most well-known beer from the Stone and Wood brewery is the Pacific Ale. You can find this beautifully crafted beer all around Australia but why not give it a try when you are at the source? There are also many other awesome beers (and ciders) to choose from, suitable for everyone’s palettes. I you want to get to know more about the Brewery or want to have a more intimate brewery trip, check out the Stone and Wood brewery tour. Click here.