Byron Bay is undoubtedly one of Australia’s most iconic beachside destinations. Located in the far north of New South Wales, Byron Bay is a mecca for surfers, sun-seekers and nature-lovers alike.
The town’s main beach, Byron Bay Beach, is a beautiful stretch of sand that’s perfect for swimming, sunbathing and surfing. There’s also plenty to explore beyond the beach, including the iconic Cape Byron Lighthouse, the lush rainforest of the hinterland and the charming country town of Bangalow. Whether you’re looking to relax or explore, Byron Bay has something for everyone.
Here’s just a taste of what you can look forward to when planning your own coastal getaway to Byron Bay.
Where To Stay In Byron Bay
Byron Bay isn’t just a beloved destination for international tourists, but also for Australians who come here from all over the country. Accommodation options range from budget-friendly apartments to luxury resorts. The Waves Byron Bay Hotel is one of the most popular hotels in the area, thanks to its convenient location and stunning ocean views.
The hotel is just a short walk from the beach, making it perfect for any who want to take full advantage of early morning surf conditions. Guests can also enjoy direct access to the pool and terrace. The rooms are very comfy, lots of space and air circulating, with plenty of nice sun light. And, for an added touch of luxury, the hotel also offers a spa and fitness center.
If the Waves hotel is a touch out of your budget, then you’ll be happy to hear that there are plenty of great accommodation options at Byron Bay to choose from all over the town, ranging from beachfront surf hotels to country cabins. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or a family vacation, you will surely be able to find the right Byron Bay accommodation to suit your budget and travel preferences.
Wategos Beach Lookout
Situated on the northernmost tip of Cape Byron, Wategos Beach is one of the most popular surfing spots in Byron Bay. The Wategos Beach lookout provides visitors stunning views of the golden sands that stretch across Wategos Beach, as well as the wider expanse of coastline across the rest of Byron Bay. This little lookout is also a great place to watch the sun rise or set every morning.
The lookout is located on the eastern side of Wategos Beach, and it can be accessed via a set of stairs that lead down from the car park. Visitors are advised to take caution when walking on the stairs, as they can be slippery when wet.
Once at the bottom, two viewing platforms offer different perspectives of the beach. The upper platform is ideal for taking photographs, while the lower platform provides a more intimate experience of the sound and sights of the surf. Whether you are a keen surfer or simply looking for a beautiful spot to relax, Wategos Beach Lookout is well worth a visit.
Watch this video to get a glimpse of Wategos Beach:
Tallow Beach
Tallow Beach is a patrolled surf beach located in Byron Bay. The beach is approximately 2 miles long and is patrolled by lifeguards from October to April. Like most of Byron Bay’s most iconic beaches, Tallow Beach is popular with locals and tourists, and it is known for its surfing conditions and value as a site for whale watching (more on that later).
During the whale migrations between May and November, humpback whales can often be seen from the beach. Tallow Beach is also home to many bird species, including pelicans, ospreys, and terns. Nature lovers are advised to bring their cameras with high-speed shutters and maybe even a pair of binoculars for taking in as much of this coastline’s wildlife as possible.
Skydiving, Parasailing, and Kayaking
For those seeking an adrenaline rush, Byron Bay is truly the perfect destination, and for so many more reasons than just surfing alone. Situated on the east coast of Australia, Byron Bay is renowned for its natural beauty and its reputation for being chock-full of outdoor activities.
Visitors to Byron Bay can enjoy a range of exhilarating experiences, from skydiving and parasailing to kayaking and windsurfing. Whatever your preference, you’re sure to find an activity that will get your heart racing. And with so many beautiful beaches and unique landscapes to explore, you’re guaranteed to create memories that will last a lifetime.
Watch this and you’ll book your skydiving right away:
Whale Watching
Every year, between June and November, humpback whales migrate along the coast of Australia, and there’s no better place to see them than from the shores of Byron Bay. Whether you’re looking to spot these gentle giants from the beach or on a boat tour, you will surely be in for an incredible experience.
Whale watching is one of the most popular activities in Byron Bay, so be sure to book your tour in advance. And keep your eyes peeled – you never know when a whale might pop up!
Check out this clip to see what whale watching means in Byron Bay:
Explore the Restaurants, Cafes, Bars and Shops
Byron Bay is a popular tourist destination for its beautiful beaches, picturesque scenery, and laid-back atmosphere. However, the town also boasts various excellent restaurants, cafes, bars and shops. Visitors can enjoy fresh seafood, delicious coffee, and creative cocktails all within walking distance of the beach.
There are also plenty of fun shops to explore, selling everything from locally made arts and crafts to stylish beachwear. Whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner spot or a place to enjoy some retail therapy, you’re sure to find the perfect local haunts to complete your personal Byron Bay trip itinerary.
Explore Other Nearby Townships
Byron Bay is a beautiful location that is known for its beaches. However, many other towns near Byron Bay are also worth exploring. For example, Murwillumbah is a town with a rich history dating back to the early days of European settlement.
Today, Murwillumbah is home to various shops, cafes, and restaurants. There are also several parks and gardens to enjoy, as well as a number of museums and galleries. Another nearby town is Lennox Head, which is known for its surfing beaches. In addition to surfing, Lennox Head also offers a variety of cafes, restaurants, and shops. There are also several parks and nature reserves to explore.
And the attractions don’t just stop at Murwillumbah either. Through the NSW hinterlands and Byron Bay’s position within the Northern Rivers wine region, tourists can actually explore a variety of other regional townships in and around Byron Bay, including taking a drive through some of Australia’s most idyllic wine country.
Conclusion
Byron Bay is one of the most iconic beach towns in all of Australia. With its world-famous beaches, stunning hinterland, and relaxed vibe, it’s no wonder that this little town attracts visitors from all over the globe.
Whether you’re looking for a place to relax and unwind or want to get active and explore everything Byron Bay has to offer, you’re sure to fall in love with this special corner of the world. Have you had a chance to experience Byron Bay firsthand? If not, put it on your list of places to visit – you won’t regret it.
Want to read more about Australia? Check out these tips for traveling in Australia after Covid-19, or this post about exploring Australia’s state of Victoria.
