The hippy, relaxed, beach town of Byron Bay is a holiday destination for backpackers, tourists and locals alike. It is located only 8 hours drive from Sydney or you can easily catch a flight to Ballina Byron. However as Byron Bay is known for its beaches, summer is when the flocks of crowds join to enjoy it.

Winter is equally as beautiful in Byron Bay. You won’t have to deal with the crowds, expensive accommodation and can still enjoy all the activities that the area has to offer!

On the drive up to Sydney, as we left on the Friday night, we had a night in Port Macquarie then stopped by at Coffs Harbour to see the famous Big Banana.

Do
The famous walk to the iconic Cape Byron Lighthouse is a must especially before sunset. It is located in the most eastern point of the mainland of Australia. The walk is easy and takes about 45 minutes to a hour up (approximately same time down) and is very scenic. You pass many beautiful views of the ocean and experience the natural beauty. The nature is beautiful and you can spot some animals along the way including various birds. We even saw an echidna on our way up!

From up the lighthouse, you can get a panoramic view of Byron Bay and it’s coastline. Relax and enjoy the sunset from here before heading back down!

Check out the street art in the city centre.

Hang out and check out the various other beaches in the area such as Main Beach, Wategos Beach or Tallow Beach. You can go surfing and do other various water activities!

Eat
There are plenty of good cafes and restaurants to enjoy in Byron Bay. With an emphasis on fresh, local produce, these ones were my favourite.

Three Blue Ducks at The Farm
Their original café is based in Bronte in Sydney’s eastern suburbs however, the location of this place far beat the one in Bronte! Set on The Farm, the area itself is beautiful. There are views of the Byron Hinterland and you really feel like you are far, far away from the city. The food was equally as good where we shared a variety of dishes including mussels, lamb, haloumi salad, pavlova and pastries.

 

Byron Fresh Cafe
Cafe by day, restaurant by night. Dinner at Byron Fresh was a variety of dishes such as fish tacos, salmon, salad, steak and sweet potato fries. The cocktails were well made and delicious.

The Roadhouse
This café is a gem as it is located away from the Byron Bay centre, however it still brings in the crowds as the produce is fresh.

Leaf & Grain Café
For great coffee and pastries/muffins!

The Balcony Bar
We enjoyed dinner and cocktails here on our last night.

Harvest Cafe
Although it is located in Newbrybar, it was perfect to end our Byron Bay trip here before heading off the Sydney. The service was great, the produce is straight from their garden so the breakfast was fresh and delicious.

Drink
Grab a drink at The Balcony Bar, La La Land, The Northern Hotel and Sticky Wicket. A true backpackers bar – Cheeky Monkey’s is a fun place to go for a dance and boogie.

Byron Bay can be enjoyed all year long, but go visit in winter time to really enjoy the place in its peaceful state!