Things to do in Byron Bay

Wake up in our subtropical climate to birdsong, the coastal breeze, and locally roasted coffee. Picture long hazy summer beach days and nourishing eats fit for any foodie, locavore, or high-profile resident (yes Chris Hemsworth, we’re looking at you). Designer boutiques, crystal clear waters, coastal walks, rolling hills and hidden waterfalls all wait to be discovered.

We acknowledge the traditional custodians of the land we live and work on, the Arakwal people of the Bundjalung nation, and pay our deepest respects to elders past, present and emerging.

Byron Shire’s food scene is serious and known for its overwhelming variety of quality regional produce and coffee brewed just right. The flavours of the Northern Rivers will delight you. Here’s our go-to list:

For a lovely surprise on your arrival
We proudly partner with Cape Byron Platters. Helen sources the freshest, local artisan produce and cheese in the area. Order with us.

For coffee first thing
The laid-back and ever popular Top Shop Café just up the lane serves freshly roasted local single origin coffee, and fresh baked goods and burgers. A great spot to people-watch. We love to sit on the porch next to the pink Marzocco and chat with our much loved baristas.

For coffee-to-go at the beach
Beach Restaurant and Kiosk at Clarke’s beach, a short walk away, also offers coffee, fresh juices, and the humble, yet delicious egg & bacon roll.

For brekkie with the kinfolk
Well-loved Bayleaf café is worth the queue for a good brew, brekkie greens, matcha tea or a cold drip. Their takeaway salads are perfect for picnic provisions.

For some of the finest farm-to-table fare in the country
Try Three Blue Ducks at The Farm or Folk (both in Ewingsdale), and Harvest in Newrybar. For the best experience, avoid the weekend crowds.

For vegan
Innovative, plant-based kitchen and bar, No Bones, is a Bask & Stow fave. Must order the Konjac calamari, duck pancakes, and delectable cocktails.

For a special occasion
Fleet for fine dining (if you manage to get a table) or the front corner table at Rae’s on Wategos at sundown.

For pre and post dinner drinks in the Med
Order mezze or a nightcap at the cool Mez Club.

For foodie pub and oysters
The Balcony, where A-listers frequent.

For lovers of craft beer
Grab a bite and a ‘tasting paddle’ at Stone & Wood’s new brewery, designed by our own Harley Graham Architects.

For lovers of nature and the sea, this is where the country meets the ocean. Byron Shire is large, offering abundant iconic beaches, National Parks and the hinterland. Bask & Stow is at the entrance to Cape Byron, The Pass, Wategos, and Arakwal National Park, all within walking distance.

For a short coastal wander
From The Pass over the cliffs is Wategos, an idyllic beach and starting point for the striking Byron Bay Lighthouse walk. A sundowner at Rae’s will surely hit the spot.

For wow-factor
The Cape Byron Lighthouse trail does not disappoint. Whale and dolphin spotting, spectacular vistas south overlooking Tallow Beach, and selfie stops, will ensure no rush to the top. Daily crowds gather for yet another stunning Mount Warning sunset.

For an hour loop walk
The Milne track via Arakwal National Park to Tallow beach and Cosy Corner offers a respite from the crowds on a hot summer’s day. Also perfect for bathing and relaxing.

For relaxation
Book a massage at Comma or a facial at The Little Co, both with divine spaces and small-batch botanical products.

For gin lovers
Book a tour at Cape Byron Distillery amongst their Macadamia orchard and regenerated rainforest, where they forage botanicals for the famed Brookie’s Gin and Macadamia Nut Liqueur.

For the region’s best organic, seasonal produce
Thursday mornings at Farmer’s Markets. Meet the shire’s growers, finest artisans, and craftsmen. Grab a coffee and fill your bag with kale, Davidson plums, macadamias, and the local native, ‘finger limes’.

For hidden swimming holes, waterfalls, bush hikes, and culinary gems
The shire boasts a glorious hinterland. After a hearty breakfast at Harvest, browse the wares at Newrybar Merchants, and drive through the winding roads and gentle hills, or hike to Minyon Falls.

To relieve the caffeine high, try some retail therapy in the shire, home to some serious designers and makers, enough to impress Sydneysiders, Melburnians, and global fashionistas.

For cool local fashion labels
Shop at Assembly Label, Spell & The Gypsy Collective, ROWIE, and Auguste, now all internationally beloved brands.

For homewares and accessories
Citizen Nomade, Hope & May, Marr-kett, and Liberty Trading Co.

For custom surfboard eye candy
Head to local surf heroes McTavish in the Industrial Estate opposite Stone & Wood.

For boutique stores
Nearby Bangalow offers Our Corner Store, Millar & More, Bisque Traders and Woods for another cuppa.

For a good read
Peruse the selection at The Book Room, local and independent.