Destination Guide

Byron Bay, Australia

Byron Bay rests at the eastern most point in Australia. But that's not the only unique thing about this hip, coastal town. Named after Vice-Admiral John Byron, the grandfather of world-famous poet, Lord Byron, the town has a rich history that has made it the cultural hub it is today. Visitors to Byron Bay rave about the beautiful beaches, whimsical lighthouse, wildlife and outdoor activities. Byron Bay is also the regular site for festivals in the arts, music and film.

This picturesque coastal gem has both the old and the new, making it an ideal getaway spot for every traveller. Relax on the beach, dive out of a plane or take in the music at Byron Bay.

Getting in and around Byron Bay

Ballina Byron Gateway Airport

When flying to Byron Bay, travellers have two airports to choose from. Nearby in Ballina, the airport provides tourists with an easy commute to Byron Bay. Gold Coast Airport is a little further, but is said to offer more affordable airfares from major Australian cities and more affordable shuttles to Byron Bay. It is also possible to take a bus to Byron Bay as regular routes run from Sydney and Brisbane. However, the travel time is considerable, as Sydney is at least nine hours away.

Byron Bay Transport

Byron Bay is small enough that visitors can bike or even walk to their destinations. There are also bus services you can utilise when travelling to destinations.

Byron Bay Car Hire

Car hire is a great way to get around for activities outside the city and there are many locally operated car hire companies to choose from.

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Byron Bay accommodation

Byron Bay has a bustling hotel scene thanks to its thriving tourist industry and frequent festivals and events. There is no shortage of unique hotels to choose from in Byron Bay and each hotel has its own personality and ambience that only adds to the eclectic experience.

Luxury

  • Gaia Retreat and Spa. If you're looking for a relaxing weekend in Byron Bay, there's no better place to pamper yourself than this secluded spa.
  • Crystalbrook Byron has everything you could ever want from a resort in Byron Bay. From the luxurious spa to the sleek modern decor, this resort is the ultimate escape to the rainforest.
  • Gaia Retreat and Spa. If you're looking for a relaxing weekend in Byron Bay, there's no better place to pamper yourself than this secluded spa. Byron at Byron Resort and Spa has everything you could every want from a resort in Byron Bay. From the luxurious spa to the sleek, modern decor, this resort is the ultimate in no-expense-spared travelling.

    Mid-range

  • Planula Bed and Breakfast Retreat is a cosy and secluded boutique establishment surrounded by gardens and bushland.
  • The Beach Hotel Resort is always bustling with events and people excited to experience the beauty of Byron Bay. Delicious food and ocean views make the Beach Hotel Resort one of Byron Bay's most popular places to stay.
  • Planula Bed and Breakfast Retreat is a cosy and secluded boutique establishment focusing on diving. Enjoy a unique lodging experience at this diver's haven. The Beach Hotel Resort is always bustling with events and people excited to experience the beauty of Byron Bay Beach's breathtaking sights. Delicious food and ocean views make the Beach Hotel Resort one of Byron Bay's most popular places to stay.

    Budget

  • Tallow Beach Motel has great beach access and comfortable accommodation for travellers on a budget.
  • The Wollongbar Motel. This high-quality budget motel will surprise you with its fresh decor and room set up. You'll love the close proximity to Byron Bay's city centre.
  • Tallow Beach Motel has great beach access and comfortable accommodation for travellers on a budget. The Wallongbar Accommodation. This high quality budget motel will surprise you with its fresh decor and room set up. You'll love the close proximity to Byron Bay's city centre.

    Backpackers

  • YHA Byron Bay has lots of community amenities that will make your stay in Byron Bay fun and festive.
  • Wake Up! Byron Bay. This backpackers offers a range of accommodation options and has all the facilities to make your stay a good one.
  • The Byron Bay YHA has lots of community amenities that will make your stay in Byron Bay fun and festive, a great backpackers' accommodation. Nomads Odyssey Backpackers and Budget Accommodation. This backpackers' haven is great for groups of friends or families travelling together. Nomads Odyssey Backpackers and Budget accommodation is comfortable and affordable place to stay in Byron Bay. ^ Back to top

    Things to do in Byron Bay

  • Main Beach is the primary beach in Byron Bay. It's always peppered with people soaking in the sun and surfers with long boards under their arms.
  • Whale watching. If surfing alongside dolphins isn't enough for you, whale watching is a very popular pastime in Byron Bay. Byron Bay Whale Watching is the premier whale watching tour provider with trips departing daily during whale watching season. See majestic humpback whales in the wild.
  • Cape Byron Lighthouse. This nationally treasured monument was built in 1901 and is the eastern-most point on the Australian continent. Visit this nostalgic structure for a trip back in time with panoramic views.
  • Tallow Beach is a secluded beach tucked away from tourists and visitors. It's a popular spot for local surfers that love the privacy and the great waves.
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    Day trips in and around Byron Bay

  • Snorkelling and Diving. Byron Bay has some of the best snorkelling and diving in Australia. Julian Rocks are just a few minutes off shore and companies like Byron Bay Dive Centre and Sundive offer daily trips for snorkelling and diving.
  • Byron Bay Hinterland. A tour through the lush and green Byron Hinterland is a must during your trip to Byron Bay. The rolling hills and quaint farms are definitely a sight worth seeing.
  • Nimbin. Located just over an hour from Byron Bay, Nimbin is famous for its eclectic community, museums, artists, galleries and markets. This colourful town should not be overlooked by Byron Bay visitors.
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