I’m Krystine Sazali – a travel influencer, blogger and photographer. Thanks for stopping by my blog on the 10 best things to do in Byron Bay, NSW.
Before I tell you all about this beautiful spot, let me introduce myself. I used to work in the corporate world as an IT Project Manager before taking time off to pursue my passion for travel blogging. Due to COVID-19 and a newborn, I’ve had to put a pause on my travels for now.
Falling in Love with Byron Bay
Byron Bay was one of the first places I visited when I moved to the Gold Coast, since it’s one hour away. I remember thinking: “wow, this is the most beautiful place on earth!”. The view from the lighthouse took my breath away. The town’s easy-going, bohemian vibe was right up my alley.
Before visiting, I had never even heard of Byron Bay. But now, I try to visit any chance I can! I usually come to spend a weekend away. Lord Byron Hotel is where I stay which is central to everything. Byron is filled with amazing cafes, bars and restaurants – such as The Byron General Store.
Of course, you shouldn’t miss the hike to the Cape Byron Lighthouse, swimming at Wategos Beach and shopping at the markets. I remember one time waking up at 4:30am to hike to the lighthouse to capture sunrise. It was such a beautiful experience and worth the early wake up!
There are plenty of amazing things to see, do and experience in Byron Bay. Below I’ve outlined my top 10 must-do experiences for your visit.
10 Best Things To Do in Byron Bay
1. Hike to the Cape Byron Lighthouse
The walk from the main town to the lighthouse is less than 4km and is the perfect sunrise and sunset mission. You can hike here independently or choose to go on a guided tour and learn about the shipwrecks of the area. You can’t visit Byron Bay and not do this! The views are breathtaking.
2. Relax at the Beaches of Byron Bay
Byron Bay is home to some great beaches located close to town. Main Beach is (as the name suggests) the main beach of Byron with soft white-sand, turquoise water and a decent surf break. You can also check out Clarkes Beach, The Pass, Wategos Beach and Tallows Beach & Cosy Corner.
3. Enjoy a Açaí Bowl at the General Store
Byron Bay General Store is one of my favourite places in town and their açaí bowl’s are the perfect way to start the day. Delicious and nourishing! This store is situated in one of the oldest commercial buildings of Byron – going all the way back to 1947. The food here is always good.
4. Have a Picnic and People-Watch at Main Beach
As mentioned above, Main Beach is where it all happens in Byron Bay. I recommend packing a picnic for the day, setting yourself up and then delving into the main activities of sunbathing, swimming, surfing and people-watching. There are lots of interesting characters in Byron!
5. Shop for Handmade Goods at the Markets
Shopping for handmade goods at the various Sunday markets is one of the best ways to spend the day if you’re here on a Sunday. There are lots of unique treasures that you won’t find anywhere else! Byron Bay, The Channon and Bangalow are the three most popular markets in the area.
6. Drink a Beer or Cocktail at Beach Hotel
Enjoy some afternoon beverages at Beach Hotel, an iconic destination of Byron Bay overlooking the golden sands and shimmering waters of Main Beach. What’s better than a cocktail by the beach at sunset! Grab some mates or your family and spend the afternoon waiting for sundown.
7. Watch the Sunrise over the Ocean
The simple pleasure of watching the sunrise over the ocean is made infinitely better in Byron as the natural surrounding is just stunning. Pick a beach and set your alarm clock for the early hours. Alternatively, you can hike to the Cape Byron Lighthouse to watch the sunrise just like I did.
8. Take a Surf Lesson at a Byron Bay Surf School
Byron Bay is blessed with many surf schools where you can take surfing lessons. Why not learn to surf in one of the world’s top surfing spots? Even if you don’t fancy yourself a surfer, it’s still a fun time out on the water.
9. Buy a Fancy Dress at a Boutique Shop
This recommendation is for the ladies out there who are looking for a new dress. Byron Bay has some amazing boutique shops that you can browse through. Some of the best include: St. Agni – Byron Bay Boutique, Habitat Woman, Spell & The Gypsy Collective, Hope and May, and Rowie.
10. Hike to Minyon Falls Lookout
Minyon Falls makes for a great little day trip from Byron Bay as it’s located 45-minutes drive away. It’s actually one of the highlights of any visit to Byron. The waterfall is surrounded by ancient rainforests in Nightcap National Park and the water here tumbles down 100 metres over cliffs.
Favourite Memory of Byron Bay
The first time I went to Byron, I hiked to the lighthouse and around the area. The waves were crashing into the rocks and as I stared into the distance, I saw a man. He was alone and naked. And I mean, the full monty!
His arms were up and he was waving his junk in the direction of the ocean. It was hilarious and horrifying at the same time. Like I said, there are quite a few interesting characters in Byron and you never know when you will come across them! But don’t let that put you off coming haha!
Need to Know Before you Go
When it comes to accommodation, choose a place that’s central to the activities you want to do. I loved staying at The Lord Byron Hotel. There are also heaps of affordable hostels where you can meet like-minded travellers.
Next thing to sort out is your transport. I recommend renting a car. This is essential to get around as public transport isn’t the greatest. Shops tend to close early like 5pm or 6pm – so keep that in mind when planning for food shopping. Lastly, make sure you bring a good vibe and enjoy your stay!
