8 must-do experiences in Byron Bay!
Besides the obvious relaxing on the beach and taking in the rays, there is much more to do in Byron Bay! Below are 8 activities and attractions that no one should skip in Byron!
1. Learn to surf the most beautiful beaches in Byron Bay!
Byron Bay has some banging beaches and most are pretty safe for swimming and surfing. There are plenty of surf dudes and surf chicks who walk with their board under the arm and just come and go like the tides. Whether or not they can actually surf is up for debate but you've got to look the part, right!
Since the waves are on all year round and the sand is soft without barely any rocks, it is really a fantastic place for surfing for both beginners and advanced riders This place is great for improving your surf skills. In the need for a surf school? There are plenty that offer lessons right off the main road and some use beach just outside of Byron, but transport is all provided.
2. Hike to the Byron Bay lighthouse and take in the spectacular sunrise
Cape Byron lighthouse sits on mainland Australia's most easterly point meaning it's the first point to see the sun rise each day and what a sunrise it is!
Now depending on the time of year, you may be in for an early start and whilst the hill is pretty steep, it should be fine with a few stops along the way if needed, just palm them off as a selfie break. There is actually a designated walkway the whole way, so it’s safe from cars.
At the top, there is a beautiful lighthouse and if you’re up there during whale season (June to October), you could catch a glimpse of some Southern Right and Humpback whales cruising past. Either way, you are guaranteed of a beautiful view and healthy exercise!
3. Hike around the impressive Minyon Falls!
A half-hour drive from Byron Bay, you will find yourself in a completely different world. Welcome to the countryside with mountains in the distance, you will find a real rainforest here: the Nightcap National Park. This park consists of a large jungle and high cliffs. And of course the Minyon Falls. At over 100 meters this high waterfall is an impressive sight!
From the Minyon Falls Lookout point, you can see the waterfall from above (perfect if you a don’t have much time). From here you also have a view of the rainforest that lies at the foot of the cliffs of this waterfall. If you are ready for a workout, hike the Minyon Falls Loop.
This hike is about 13 kilometres long. You walk among tall palm trees all the way to the base of the waterfall, which gives a completely different perspective. It is a nice hike that you can cover in three to four hours!
Note: the hike is not a real loop, you either go back the same way when you came or you walk a bit on the paved road.
If you don't have your own transport or do you not want to do this hike on your own, consider booking a tour. You'll find plenty of agents in Byron who can do this for you.
4. Kayak with dolphins and turtles in Cape Byron Marine Park!
Cape Byron Marine Park is just a short hop from central Byron Bay. Hundreds of dolphins, turtles and even whales live here for part of the year! You can view all these beautiful animals by kayak, and you even have a 99% guarantee that you will see dolphins. It’s just great being out on the water, the exercise and the wildlife is just a bonus
Alice who runs the Cape Byron Kayaks is a laugh and she can also tell you a few top places to go for a refreshing beer afterwards too.
5. Food, feed your soul (and face) on some of Australia's best grub.
The Treehouse at Belogil Beach is a super relaxed, indoor/outdoor restaurant with amazing food, great drinks and live music.
With Byron's tag of being full of Hippies, you have the chance to eat the most delicious organic, healthy dishes at one of the many trendy restaurants!
Byron Bay is really full of nice cafés, restaurants and cool hotspots. So there is no shortage of quality food, delicious cocktails and wines.
Here are our favourite restaurants, cafés and hotspots in Byron Bay:
The Top Shop: Located in an old milk bar, The Top Shop is a cute restaurant. You can eat tasty burgers here, but you can also enjoy a healthy breakfast. Note: The Top Shop closes at 4 pm.
Treehouse on Belongil: Fancy a beer, pizza or party? Then Treehouse on Belongil is your place! It is close to the trendy beach Belongil.
The Railway Friendly Bar – or just the Rails – this place serves up banging food and great tunes. Definitely more of a locals hangout, with that in mind the array of music is vast and wide and you always see a few characters in there too
Red Ginger – whilst this place is mainly an Asian grocery store, they do serve some authentic dim sims and other finger food.
The Bakery – you may ask why has this one made it – 2 main reasons, the pies are absolutely next level. I mean you can’t go wrong with a cheese and bacon and the potato pie but mainly as this place opens up at 3am and the goods are fresh out of the oven. The Aussie equivalent of a 3am kebab on the way home.
6. Attend a Music or Arts Festival:
Byron Bay is known for its vibrant arts and music scene. Check the local events calendar and see if there's a music or arts festival happening during your visit. Festivals like Splendour in the Grass, The Byron Bay Blues and Roots festival attract both local and international artists, creating a lively atmosphere and a unique cultural experience. IF you are thinking about attending these, then you’ll need to jump onto your accom, as it books out quick sticks.
7. Visit Nimbin - The Hippie Village:
Take a day trip to Nimbin, a nearby hippie village known for its alternative lifestyle and colourful murals. Explore the unique shops, cafes, and soak in the laid-back atmosphere. Nimbin provides a contrasting experience to the coastal vibes of Byron Bay and offers a glimpse into the alternative culture of the region. Catch the Mardi Grass festival for a new take on all things weed related.
8. Take a Yoga or Wellness Retreat:
If you don't want to commit to a whole wellness retreat the awesome Wake Up! Hostel/Hotel Byron Bay offer free yoga sessions daily for all guests.
Byron Bay is a hub for wellness activities, and you can find numerous yoga studios and wellness retreats. Consider participating in a yoga class or, if time allows, join a longer retreat to rejuvenate your mind and body. Many retreats offer holistic experiences, combining yoga, meditation, and healthy cuisine.
Remember to check the local guidelines and conditions for each activity, and enjoy the diverse offerings that Byron Bay has for every type of traveller!
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