Byron Bay

Byron Bay is a coastal town located in New South Wales, Australia. Known for its stunning beaches, vibrant atmosphere, and natural beauty, it has become one of the country's most popular tourist destinations. The region boasts picturesque landscapes, including rolling hills, lush rainforests, and the iconic Cape Byron Lighthouse, which offers breathtaking views of the coastline.

The beaches of Byron Bay, such as Main Beach and Broken Head, are renowned for their clear waters and excellent surfing conditions, attracting both beginners and experienced surfers alike. The town's laid-back vibe is reflected in its café culture, with numerous establishments serving fresh, locally sourced food and specialty coffee.

Fast Tips

  • 2025 - Stayed in Airbnb in town (2 nights)

  • Public transport really isn't Byron Bay’s vibe, so I recommend hiring a car or using uber to get around. Ubers were pretty reliable whilst we visited but you can get stuck if you go too far out from the main town, so be prepared.

  • There isn’s an abundance on offer in the town, so all the good spots do get booked out, so make sure to book ahead.

  • As a queer male I felt completely safe here. Byron Bay seemed to be quite relaxed and open to all, and LGBTQ+ friendly as well.

  • If you want to explore the greater area surround, 5-7 days is great, but if you’re just doing a beach getaway 3-4 days is more than enough.

  • Accomodation can get very tricky and pricey. I did an airbnb when we visited just because there was nothing else at the time, so book ahead and try to avoid the busier festive period times.

Eats & Sips

BAR HEATHER

A spot I had been very excited for, lived up to all the hype I had. The hospitality and service really stood out, as well the food being sublime. The wine list was also a book that I could read for days, featuring so many of my favourites. Make sure you book, as th space is tiny, but desgined to feel super cosy.

BYRON HOT BREAD BAKERY

An all night bakery serving up all the Australian bakery classics from sweet to savoury. After dinner each night, we’d wander down for a chunky wagon wheel or custard tart dusted with cinnamon.

BAYLEAF CAFE

This is my choice when I am in the centre of the town and want a solid breakfast. The service is next level lovely, and the coffee really is top notch. it encapsulates the Byron vibe from the hospitality through to the offering.

STONE & WOOD BREWERY

One of the original craft beers to sweep Australia, Stone & Wood has been one of my favourites for a long time, and their Byron Bay Brewery is the birth place of it all. Great beer halls, with tours available as well tasting boards.

TOKYO DOLL

A wonderful share plate style japanese restaurant done with a modern australian hue over it. If you love place like Chin Chin, Golden Boy & Cho Cho San, this i very much on the same wave length.

BANG BANG

Vibey Asian share plates and cocktails, in a really cool fit out. When we went there was a dj going in the corner, and the tables out the front were packed sipping white wine. Loved it for something really central and you could drinks and snacks or a full dinner.

CAPE BYRON DISTILLERY

This is a distillery I fell in love with whilst working at Blackhearts & Sparrows, and it was mainly for their Brookie’s Gin. Using 25 botanicals, and mostly Australian natives, the tour is a must do. You get to venture their rainforest, that the family built themselves and enjoy and touch a lot of the natives that goes into their gins.

ELTHAM HOTEL

Warning, it is a bit of a drive out from Byron Bay centre but it really is the blueprint to how to deliver the updated pub for the modern era. Alanna Sapwell-Stone is one of the best chefs in Australia so no matter what she’s serving, it’s going to be good. Hot tip is there is accomodation, so staying the night is definitely an option.

TOP SHOP CAFE

This cafe is a little bit out of the way in terms of the central town and that’s why I recommend it the most when it comes to breakfast. Mostly locals and I will go on a limb and say it was the best halloumi sandwich I have ever had.

HOTEL MARVELL ROOFTOP

Yes it’s a hotel rooftop, but it just fits the vibes for a cruisey drink spot in between the beach and dinner. Lovely views and usually a dj spinning in the corner, it’s definitely worth a pop in.

*media & images courtesy of publications, establishment websites and social media pages as well as Tripadvisor. I do not claim to own some of the images provided.