while i typically build packed itineraries, relaxed byron bay calls for beach lounging and lackadaisical loitering under the sun! discover the same vibrant brunch plates and turquoise waves that i did in this bohemian surf spot for the ultimate first...
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things to do in byron bay 🏄
where to eat in byron bay 🥝
shop 'til you drop in byron bay 🩱
things to do in byron bay 🏄
discover the best coastal sites and hikes to explore in byron bay. following this list from the top down, brave the waves then indulge in utter relaxation!
this 2-hour scenic paddle through a marine reserve filled with turtles and dolphins—which is undeniably an active effort on the way out as you push against incoming waves—glides over volcanic reefs along the east coast 🐬
Kayak Byron Bay
if you’d prefer a closer interaction with sea life, consider snorkeling with turtles, manta rays, and harmless leopard sharks at the "nuthungulli" julian rocks marine sanctuary 🦈
Snorkel Julian Rocks "Nuthungulli"
an iconic surf break renowned for long, peeling right-hand waves that offer smooth, consistent rides attracts local enthusiasts and international surfers from around the world 🌞
The Pass
stroll through the lush coastal bushland reminiscent of a subtropical rainforest on this 1 - 2.5 mile walk, keeping an eye on the canopies overhead to spot camouflaged koalas hanging onto eucalyptus trees 🐨
Cape Byron Lighthouse Walk
colorful sun shades dot the sandy shore with the cape byron lighthouse visible from high atop the forested headland in the distance ⛱️
Main Beach
arguably byron bay’s most famous place to keep the night going, a dueling piano bar with melodic live music streams out of this 2-story tavern every night of the week 🎹
Great Northern Hotel
where to eat in byron bay 🥝
everywhere i ate during my 2 days in byron bay – this list of locally sourced cuisine details the best cafes for brunch and a post-beach bite. beginning at the top and working your way down follows the order in which i hit each of the best restaurant...
pink umbrellas and rattan fixtures curate a bright beachy vibe permeating this family-owned joint with artful, imaginative breakfast plates 🍳
Combi
watch kayakers brave the waves from this light, whitewashed restaurant featuring fresh, hyper seasonal seafood on the modern australian menu 🦪
Beach Byron Bay
perfect for a light summer dinner after a sun-soaked day at the beach, this relaxed seaside terrace is one of those rare restaurants where the cocktails may be even better than the small plates made for sharing and snacking! 🍔
Loft Byron Bay
if a sweet treat is calling your name after dinner at loft, grab a scoop of gelato across the street 🍦
Bella Rosa Gelateria
arguably the best breakfast in town, reservations aren’t available so arrive early to secure a seat whether you’re interested in traditional dishes like eggs florentine or the more adventurous chili scram 🥑
Bayleaf Cafe
aside from the dreamy undersea decor, look to arrive before 1:00 PM to taste the mouthwateringly fresh fruit in their açai bowls and breakfast fruit plates—if you arrive later enjoy the latina fusion lunch menu! 🧜♀️
Roca
if a post-beach brew is calling your name, pop into the beach hotel beer garden to soak in a few more hours of ocean views while sipping on signature sips salted with ocean breeze—the lychee martini was my favorite! 🍻
Beach Hotel
this casual yet trendy eatery offers a bit of foodie fun, carrying different covered sushi rolls around the moving conveyor belt which you can grab at your leisure 🍣
Kinoko
shop 'til you drop in byron bay 🩱
beachy aussie boutiques to keep an eye out for when strolling down central jonson and lawson streets, these are the best places to shop in byron bay
if visiting on a saturday, peruse an array of bohemian boutique stands under the stars, listen to live music, and enjoy delicious street food 📿