Things to do in Byron Bay

Cape Byron lighthouse, at sunrise. From most easterly point of Australia, Byron Bay.

Welcome to Byron Bay!

Welcome to the enchanting town of Byron Bay! With its gorgeous beaches, lush forests, and bohemian culture, there’s no shortage of activities and attractions to enjoy. Here are the top picks for a memorable visit:

1. Visit the Cape Byron Lighthouse: The lighthouse, located at the most easterly point of mainland Australia, offers spectacular views of the coastline. Take a walk up to the lighthouse for a panoramic view of the surrounding area.
2. Explore the Beaches: Byron Bay is famous for its stunning beaches, including Main Beach, Wategos Beach, and Clarkes Beach. Take a swim in the ocean, go surfing, or simply relax on the sand.
3. Attend the Farmers Market: The Byron Bay Community Market is held every Thursday in the town centre, featuring local produce, handmade crafts, and artisanal food stalls.
4. Whale Watching Tour: The whale watching season in Byron Bay typically runs from June to November, with the peak time being in late July to early September. During this time, visitors can go on whale watching tours to see humpback whales up close as they migrate to their breeding grounds in warmer waters.
5. Explore the National Parks: The area surrounding Byron Bay boasts several national parks, including the Minyon Falls National Park, the Nightcap National Park, and the Border Ranges National Park. These parks offer beautiful hiking trails, scenic views, and waterfalls.
6. Learn to Surf: Byron Bay is a surfing mecca, and visitors can take lessons from one of the local surf schools, no matter their skill level.
7. Visit the Arts and Crafts Markets: The Byron Bay Arts and Crafts Market is held on the first and third Sunday of each month, showcasing handmade goods, jewellery, clothing, and artisanal food.
8. Bike Riding: Rent a bike from one of the local bike shops and explore the town’s many beaches and attractions on two wheels.
9. Attend a Festival: Byron Bay is home to several annual festivals, including the Byron Bay Bluesfest, the Splendour in the Grass music festival, the Byron Bay Film Festival, and the Byron Bay Writers Festival, featuring a diverse range of artists and musicians.
10. Take a Yoga or Pilates Class: With its relaxed bohemian vibe, Byron Bay is a great place to get in touch with your inner peace and wellness. Take a yoga or Pilates class at one of the local studios or join a guided meditation session for a truly relaxing experience. Classes are available for all skill levels. We suggest Bende & Creature Yoga.
11. Visit the Art Galleries: For art lovers, there are several galleries and studios in Byron Bay showcasing local and regional artists. Take a stroll through the town and discover some amazing works of art.
12. Scuba Diving: For the adventurous, scuba diving is a must-try activity in Byron Bay, with several dive sites to choose from, including Julian Rocks Marine Reserve.
13. Stand-Up Paddleboarding: Rent a stand-up paddleboard and explore the calm waters of Byron Bay, taking in the stunning views and fresh ocean air.
14. Cooking Classes: For foodies, Byron Bay is a culinary paradise, with several cooking schools offering classes in regional cuisine and specialties, such as seafood and organic produce.
15. Visit the Local Distillery: The Cape Byron Distillery is a must-visit for those interested in local spirits production. The distillery offers tours and tastings of their award-winning gin and rum, made with locally sourced ingredients. Alternatively, Husk Distillery is located in the small town of Tumbulgum a 35 minute drive north and is a beautiful space for a lazy sunny afternoon.

With such a diverse range of activities and attractions, there’s something for everyone in Byron Bay.