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Details for Byron Bay

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Discover Byron Bay's Wonders
Byron Bay, a coastal town in New South Wales, Australia, is renowned for its laid-back vibe, pristine beaches, and iconic surf culture. Surrounded by lush hinterland and dotted with trendy cafes, boutiques, and art galleries, Byron Bay offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure for visitors seeking a quintessential beach getaway
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57.29 °F - Clouds Min/Max: 57.29 °F / 57.29 °FFeels: 56.86 °F Humidity: 88%5 Day Forecast

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Description

Byron Bay is Australia's easternmost town and a place of outstanding natural beauty. The beachside town is set against lush volcanic hills on the NSW North Coast and has been popular among surfers since the 1960s. The Aquarius Festival in 1973 in Nimbin, a town in the Byron Bay hinterland, helped foster the image of the region as a place of alternative philosophies. Since then architects, designers, artisans and software engineers have set up shop, grafting their talents and energy onto this relaxed town. Rich soils and sustainable farming practices around Byron Bay create enviable fresh produce. You can savour the delicious local produce in the area's restaurants, cafés and markets. Even with its popularity as a holiday destination, Byron Bay has retained its small town charm. Australia's most easterly point casts a spell over everyone who goes there. You'll find plenty of places to stay, from elegant hotels and resorts to hostels and camping grounds. There are plenty of services to help you relax, from yoga classes to day spas, and thrilling adventures to pump up your adrenaline. With its natural beauty, outdoor adventures and delicious food, Byron Bay attracts people from all over the world and the mild climate makes it a splendid destination year-round. The traditional owners take an active role in the management of Arakwal National Park and of Bundjalung Aboriginal country.

Useful information
Population:

Byron Bay: 6,330 Byron Shire: 37,126

Currency:

Australian Dollar (AUD) $1 = 100 cents

Emergency Info:

Police, Fire & Ambulance: 000
Byron Central Hospital: +61 2 6639 9400

Opening Hours:

Opening hours vary, but most shops are open 9am–5:30pm on weekdays and 9am–noon on Saturdays. Major centres stay open until 5pm. On Sundays, some bigger shopping centres are open from 10am to 4pm. Many of the bigger centres also have Thursday and Friday late night shopping until 9pm.

Do & See

Brunswick Heads

Brunswick Heads

Brunswick Heads is a beautiful coastal village on the mouth of the Brunswick River. About 15 minutes' drive from Byron Bay, this charming town is on the doorstep of many white sandy beaches such as Brunswick Heads beach, a popular spot for swimmers and anglers. With excellent boating and fishing, inviting pubs and cafés, and delicious fish and chips, the town is a delightful destination year-round.

Byron Bay Wildlife Sanctuary

Byron Bay Wildlife Sanctuary

Fur, feathers, fine food and family fun — Byron Bay Wildlife Sanctuary is full of little surprises! There are lots of native furry friends and cuddly nursery animals, mini golf, train rides, playgrounds and barbecues. There's rabbit petting, face painting, a treehouse, and a reptile display including the local Brown Snake and Death Adder. All safe behind glass, of course. Visit the crocodile exhibit and cuddle a croc. Treat yourself to breakfast or lunch with some great local coffee and delicious food. Enjoy pancakes, homemade cakes and cookies. Specialties include macadamia baked cheesecake and their famous beef burger infused with macadamia nuts. The shop on the premises offers a wide range of gourmet macadamia products and tastings of hot, roasted nuts. There's a fascinating gift shop and a full display of the macadamia nut industry.

Cape Byron Headland & Lighthouse

Cape Byron Headland & Lighthouse

Cape Byron Headland Reserve offers walking tracks through spectacular beaches and beautiful and rare coastal vegetation. Visit the Cape Byron Lighthouse, built in 1901, above the cliff at mainland Australia's most easterly point. The view is magnificent in every direction, from the Cape Byron Marine Park and vast Pacific Ocean to the verdant hinterland. Look out for dolphins, turtles, wallabies and whales in season. At dawn, marvel at the glorious sunrise.

Crystal Castle & Shambhala Gardens

Crystal Castle & Shambhala Gardens

A short scenic journey into Byron Bay's hinterland are private botanical gardens filled with extraordinary crystals and subtropical plant life. Walk among beautiful gardens and rainforest on the Buddha Walk, Rainforest Walk or around the labyrinth. The Peace Experience offers an enriching sound-healing bath, meditation session and Kora Walk around the Kalachakra stupa for world peace, a sacred monument that has been blessed by His Holiness the Dalai Lama.

Kayaking with Dolphins

Kayaking with Dolphins

Kayak with dolphins and whales or snorkel over a hidden volcanic reef with green and loggerhead turtles in Cape Byron Marine Park. Go Sea Kayak, owned and operated by local surf life savers, will take you close to marine life and entertain you with tales of Byron Bay history and Indigenous stories. Spot the majestic humpback whales as they migrate along the coast, and ride the waves at one of Byron's famous beaches on your kayak. This is an experience to remember.

Skydive Byron Bay

Skydive Byron Bay

Enjoy a scenic flight over beautiful Byron Bay and then jump out of the plane at an altitude of more than 4 kilometres and freefall for an adrenaline-pumping 60 seconds with Skydive Byron Bay. Take in impressive views of surf beaches, the famous lighthouse, the mountains and the coast. No experience is necessary for a sensational tandem skydive, as your expert instructor guides you through to a safe landing.

Surfing

Surfing

Surfing is a tradition in Byron Bay, with some of the best waves on the East Coast of Australia. The region has waves to suit all levels of experience, from beginners to advanced surfers. You'll find surf schools that will help you learn to surf and hone your skills. Mojosurf, Byron Bay Style Surfing School, Kool Katz Surf, Rusty Miller Surf School and Soul Surf School are great options for a surf tour. You'll enjoy the thrill of riding a surfboard and have a great time in the water.

Whale Watching

Whale Watching

From May to July, magnificent humpback whales pass Cape Byron on their journey to breeding grounds further north. From September to November, they come past Byron Bay again when they migrate south to the Antarctic with their young calves. Spot them swimming and playing from a coastal lookout or join a whale-watching cruise.

Events

Bangalow Chamber Music Festival

Bangalow Chamber Music Festival

An annual tradition in August, presented by the Southern Cross Soloists, this music festival delights audiences with a sublime program of chamber music. Spanning three days, the festival spotlights some of the highest acclaimed international soloists and Australia's most anticipated chamber music ensembles.

Bluesfest

Bluesfest

Set in the beautiful hinterland of northern NSW, the Byron Bay Bluesfest is an internationally renowned blues and roots music festival held each year during the Easter long weekend. With more than 200 performances across seven stages over five days, the festival showcases music from around the world, and in previous years has boasted the likes of Bob Dylan, Paul Simon and James Brown on the bill. Since its humble beginnings in 1990, Bluesfest has won numerous tourism and music accolades and now attracts more than 100,000 festival goers over the long weekend. Held on 120 picturesque hectares at Tyagarah Tea Tree Farm, 11 kilometres from Byron, Bluesfest is a family-friendly event, with children’s entertainment and a daily kids’ program on offer.

Byron Bay Writers Festival

Byron Bay Writers Festival

This is one of Australia's most celebrated writers' events and recognised for its stimulating program. Held over three days in August, the festival attracts some of the best Australian writers, plus many international authors, and includes panel discussions, book launches, workshops and dinners.

Byron Latin Fiesta

Byron Latin Fiesta

Enjoy four nights and three days of all things Latin dance and music in November. Catering to beginners and seasoned dancers, the festival offers an extensive program of dance workshops with international, national and local instructors. Nightly dance parties feature live bands, DJs and amazing dance performances in a wide range of Latin styles including salsa, samba and cha cha cha.

Splendour in the Grass

Splendour in the Grass

Splendour in the Grass creates its own community close to Byron Bay for a July weekend that is an exciting mix of contemporary performing arts. Past headline acts have included Coldplay, The Strokes, Kanye West, Arctic Monkeys, Devo, Mumford and Sons, and Bloc Party. Loved by music fans as much as by musicians, the festival offers plenty of other attractions beyond the main stages including craft markets, food stalls, an on-site mini shopping mall, and the Little Splendour children's festival.

Cafés, Dining & Nightlife

Beach Hotel

Beach Hotel

The Beach Hotel, or 'Top Pub' to the locals, is the only pub on the beachfront overlooking Byron Bay's Main Beach. Soak up the sun in the beer garden over lunch with a cold beverage and a bite to eat from their Beach Kitchen. There is entertainment every night of the week from top Australian and international touring bands to Open Mic nights for musicians starting out. Many well-known bands from Byron Bay have chosen to play at the Beach Hotel as a launch pad of their musical careers.

Federal Doma Cafe

Federal Doma Cafe

Since opening in September 2012, Federal Doma Cafe has become a magnet for locals, day-trippers, and people travelling through the hinterland en route to Nimbin or Lismore. Doma consistently serves up some of the best Japanese fare in the region: everything from the heartiness of the miso soup through to the high quality produce is just delicious. There are also home-made burgers (meat and vegetarian), hot chips, and a daily specials board to choose from. Aside from a small traditional Japanese doma (dirt floor) room, seating is mostly outside.

No Bones Byron Bay

No Bones Byron Bay

Discover No Bones Vegan Kitchen & Bar, where sustainability and plant-based cuisine unite. Enjoy delicious vegan dishes made with local, organic produce, complemented by Australian wines and beers. Relax at the signature orange table and experience eco-friendly dining.

Saltwater Social Club

Saltwater Social Club

There’s plenty of pop music from the last five decades to keep your hips moving at Saltwater Social Club. There’s an upstairs bar with a cool lounge feeling if you’d like to relax a while and have a sunset cocktail.

Stone & Wood Brewery Byron Bay

Stone & Wood Brewery Byron Bay

Stone & Wood Brewery offers a laid-back vibe with guided tours and tastings of signature ales and unique batches. Located in the Byron Arts and Industry Estate, the brewery features a canteen, spacious beer garden, and a kitchen by 100 Mile Table. Enjoy fresh brews on-site or take home cartons and six-packs.

The Pass Cafe

The Pass Cafe

Situated at Pass Beach in Byron Bay, The Pass Café offers a relaxed dining experience with a spacious patio. Enjoy fresh, seasonal breakfast and lunch options, including vegetarian and gluten-free dishes. Unwind with a smoothie or beer after surfing or hiking.

Three Blue Ducks at The Farm

Three Blue Ducks at The Farm

Three Blue Ducks at The Farm Byron Bay offers a unique dining experience on a working farm with a plant nursery and sustainable market garden. Enjoy ethical, authentic meals made with organic, local produce. Dine on the outdoor patio with views of Byron’s hinterland. Don't miss the bakery and educational tours.

Shopping

Ballina Farmers & Producers Market

Ballina Farmers & Producers Market

Ballina Farmers and Producers Market is held every Sunday. It’s the best way to do your weekly shop: buying fresh fruit, vegetables, and other produce directly from the growers. Customers can talk to the farmers about the produce and farming methods. Some farmers' markets are incorporated into weekend markets, but there are also regular weekday stalls and stands at various locations throughout the region.

Byron Bay Community Market

Byron Bay Community Market

Byron Bay Community Market is a fanfare of colour and music amid a myriad of exotic flavours and other products in more than 300 stalls. Arts and crafts are popular with beautiful things made by local people, using unusual and natural materials, sitting side by side with colourful imports from Africa and Asia. The market is held on the first Sunday of each month, with additional markets on the third Sunday of December and January.

Mullumbimby Farmers Market

Mullumbimby Farmers Market

Mullumbimby Farmers' Market is where you'll see Mullum at its colourful best. The market has become the gathering spot for Mullumbimby's vibrant community, re-inventing the age-old tradition of a community market meeting place. Set under magnificent fig trees in the lush foothills of Mount Chincogan, it's a wonderful place to shop for fresh produce, meet with friends, enjoy a market brekkie and local coffee, and soak up the fun and friendly vibe. There's live local music each week, plus a dedicated kid's space to keep the little ones entertained. The market also hosts regular workshops and special events throughout the year. The market is a not for profit organisation, which means every dollar you spend goes toward supporting local farmers, the community and a more sustainable future.

Tourist Information

Airports

Airports

Byron Bay is easily accessible by air with a choice of three airports within a 2-hour drive of Byron Bay. The closest airport is only 25 minutes' drive. 1. The Ballina Byron Bay Gateway Airport (BNK) This airport is within 5 kilometres of Ballina town centre and is a quick scenic road trip from Byron Bay (25 minutes) and Lismore (30 minutes). Various shuttle buses connect the airport to Byron Bay and other regional destinations. 2. Gold Coast Airport (OOL) The airport at Coolangatta, just over the border in Queensland, is served by all domestic Australian carriers and some international ones. Various shuttle buses connect to Byron Bay in about 40 minutes. 3. Brisbane Airport (BNE) Located at Eagle Farm on the eastern side of Brisbane, this airport is served by all domestic and most international carriers. A light rail runs directly from Brisbane Roma Street transit terminal, which has a choice of buses to Byron Bay. There are also direct shuttles to Byron Bay, which take about two hours.

Public Transport

Public Transport

NSW TrainLink runs two services: the Casino XPT and Brisbane XPT. Both run daily from Sydney, stopping at Casino or Grafton, with connecting coaches to Byron Bay. For local public transport, Blanchs (www.blanchs.com.au) run public bus services around the Byron Bay and Ballina region. CDC NSW (cdcbus.com.au) also provides local scheduled bus services to Ballina, Ballina Airport, Lennox Head, Bangalow, Mullumbimby, Billinudgel, Brunswick Heads, Ocean Shores, Lismore and also within Byron Bay township.

Taxi

Taxi

It is advisable to check prices before jumping in a taxi, and do not forget to add the per kilometre fare depending on time of day, vehicle type and number of passengers. You can call Australia’s national taxi booking phone number — 131 008. Alternatively, call Byron Bay taxis directly.

Electricity

Electricity

Australia operates on a 230/240V supply voltage and 50Hz frequency. The country uses Type I power plugs, which feature two flat pins forming a 'V' shape, along with a grounding pin. This standard is also commonly used in New Zealand, Argentina, China, and several Pacific island nations. Remember to pack a universal adapter if your devices use a different plug type to ensure hassle-free charging.

Pharmacy

Pharmacy

In Byron Bay, and Australia more broadly, there are several major pharmacy chains where you can pick up over-the-counter medications, prescription drugs, personal care items, and more. The major pharmacy chains are Priceline Pharmacy (with a location in Byron Bay), Chemist Warehouse (nearest one in Lismore), TerryWhite Chemmart, Amcal and Blooms The Chemist. The latter three can be found in Ballina. It's always worth checking the opening hours as these can vary, especially on weekends and public holidays.

Telephone

Telephone

Country code: +61 Area code: (0)2

Frequently Asked Questions

Byron Bay offers a rich mix of sightseeing, guided tours, and local activities. On Keytours you can browse the most popular tours and experiences in Byron Bay and book them instantly.

The ideal time to visit Byron Bay depends on the experience you're after. Check the current weather and seasonal information on this page to plan your trip around the best conditions.

You can arrange private airport transfers and local transport for Byron Bay directly through Keytours, ensuring a comfortable arrival and easy travel throughout your stay.

Byron Bay has accommodation for every style, from boutique city stays to seaside resorts. Explore our handpicked hotels in Byron Bay to find the right base for your trip.

Yes. With Keytours you can combine tours, activities, hotels, and transfers for Byron Bay in a single booking, making it easy to plan your entire trip in one place.

Simply choose your preferred tours, hotels, or activities in Byron Bay on this page, select your dates, and complete your secure booking online. Our team is available to help at any step.