Guide to Byron Bay

This beach town has developed a name for itself among most backpackers, rendering it a must see on their east coast trip. Generally, it attracts the laid back hippy type.

How to get there

By car or bus, Byron Bay is 3 hours past Coffs Harbour. By plane, you can fly to Ballina Airport from any Australian city.

Where to stay

There is a fantastic camping ground off the main street that is full of backpackers. Otherwise, stay somewhere near Johnson St (the main road) for the best location. Nomads is always full of backpackers and is easy to meet people.

What to do

1. Cape Byron Lighthouse walk

This is an incredible walk that is great for an afternoon. It starts from the main beach and winds its way through a mix of forest and beach views, to eventually reach the lighthouse. During the course of the walk you will see spectacular views of the bay and surrounds.

2. Take a surfing lesson

This is a great place to take a lesson for beginners before you head up north, as you can then rent surf boards as you go with more confidence. I did a lesson with Kool Kats surfing and I would highly recommend it.

It is run by a hilarious and sociable Terry, who takes you to the best spot to learn for that particular day. You don’t waste any time getting in the water to practice standing up and the groups are small so he is able to help you personally the whole time.

3. Rent a surf board

If you don’t need a lesson, go ahead and rent a board from one of the surf shops, camping grounds or hostels for $25-$30.

4. Take a sea kayak tour with the dolphins

You can book these through the campground, hostels or any tour shop on the main street (there are plenty). This is a great way to see the coast if you’re not a surfer or want to try something different.

5 Chill out on the beach.

The main beach at Byron is beautiful and is a popular place to sit day or night, as backpackers often host their late night parties there.

6. Take a mountain bike tour

This is a great way to see the area along with spectacular viewpoints and can be booked at any tour office, hostel or camp ground.

Nightlife

Check out the Beach Hotel any night of the week; it’s lively with a DJ, situated on the beach and attracts all the backpackers. Ginger Pig also has a great atmosphere, open late most nights and playing reggae on Mondays.

Cheeky Monkeys is on the other end of the main street and has a $5 parma and pot of beer deal, if you like table top dancing and wet t-shirt competitions!

How long to stay

There is a lot to do here and you could spend up to a week to properly enjoy it.