Move over Bondi, Bells Beach and Surfers Paradise, these days Byron Bay is being hailed as Australia’s most famous beach!
This could be because the secret is out with backpackers, or maybe because Hollywood celebs and Aussie A-listers can be spotted around town. But what is drawing so many people to this surf village on the New South Wales North Coast?
The beach
For starters, you can’t go past the beach. In fact, you will find many beaches along the 30 km coastline that could easily be ranked amongst the worlds best. Main Beach, in the heart of Byron Bay’s township, is patrolled by surf lifeguards year-round. It’s ideal for swimming and surfing in the clear, warm waters.
View this post on InstagramByron Bay magic… 📷 @renee.robitaille daytime passes, but the light remains.🌞✨
The shopping
In recent years we’ve seen more and more little shops pop up around town and so many have a uniquely Byron feel. You can browse for homewares, beachy decor, quirky artwork, locally designed clothes, wellness products and much more as you stroll through the village.
There’s also great local markets and travel 12 kilometres inland to the gorgeous town of Bangalow and find even more regional delights.
The food
Absolutely no shortage of places to get a great coffee, or turmeric chai latte. And almost anything else that you crave!
The Byron area is now a firm favourite with foodies. There’s also a thriving boutique beers scene, with the likes of artisan brewery Stone & Wood.
You’ll find the A-listers we mentioned at luxurious restaurant venues like Rae’s on Wategos, and Three Blue Ducks is indicative of businesses in the area that are sustainably-minded with their farm-to-plate dining.
Places like Balcony Bar & Oyster Co show you food lovers are happy here. You can dine on delicious seafood while overlooking the streets of Byron and be only metres from the beach.
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The nature
Byron Bay is an ideal destination for those wanting an invigorating experience with nature. Get close to dolphins, watch migrating whales and see turtles bobbing between the waves.
Hike the trail up to the lighthouse to see the most easterly point in mainland Australia and enjoy the many other bush walks that take you through lush rainforest and wonderful habitat for spotting local birds and wildlife.
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The adventure
When you’re done lazing on the beach or chilling out a local cafe, there’s plenty of adrenaline-pumping opportunities in the area. You can start your day nice and easy with yoga on the beach. Then spend the morning mountain biking through the rainforest and go sea kayaking with dolphins by lunchtime!
You could crank it up a notch with hang gliding flights over the Byron Bay coastline. And of course this surfing mecca has plenty of locals who are willing to show you how to ride those famous waves!
Contact the A&NZ team today to find the ideal Byron Bay getaway for you!
Photo: The Pass, Byron Bay – source iStock/camila1111
