Don’t have a week? We’ve got you. It can be daunting task attempting to breath in all of Byron’s iconic vistas, crystal clear waters, enticing drink spots and exceptional dining experiences in only 1 day. We know Byron packs an abundance of natural beauty, organic food offerings, hinterland hideouts and is surrounded by an air of free spirit – so of course, schedules are always optional.
7am
So many reasons to start your day with a climb up to the Byron Lighthouse. Sweeping views, rugged coastlines, dolphin sightings, whales (between May – Nov), turquoise waters will keep you company as you make your journey to the top. Beat the crowds (as well as the heat) and capture the rising sun over the most easterly tip of Australia. There’s a loop track (3.7km) that runs through subtropical rainforest which will bring you back to the Pass. Either park at the bottom for a full climb or start at Wategos for the steep (but quicker) ascent to the top. Keep in mind parking is very limited during peak times of the year.
Byron Bay Lighthouse
9am
Slip down the hill from the Byron Lighthouse and into something more comfortable. The coastal flavours delivered at Beach Byron Bay will hit the spot…. oh and then there’s the view. The restaurant is nestled into the surrounding beach landscape at Clarkes Beach with a flair for fresh and enticing dishes using locally sourced ingredients. You’ll find old breakfast favourites with the addition of beautifully composed dishes- try their fried Nimbin brown rice, kale, king oyster mushrooms, chili, toasted sesame, egg ribbons, organic kimchi.
Sip on fresh juices or breakfast cocktails (after 10am) as you contemplate your next move.
Beach Byron Bay
11am
Surf. Never tried it? Now’s the time. There’s no better place to get that board out and start paddling. But, with a little help of course. Learn to surf classes are something we know! The thrill of that first wave is postcard worthy so no matter what your age or skill level, its time get onboard. On idyllic days The Pass offers exceptional learn to surf conditions, and a long boarders delight – just watch the crowds. For more experienced surfers, head to Broken Head when winds are offshore.
Learn to Surf
1pm
Keep the holiday vibes going with a beachside fish and chip classic for lunch. Byron has several eateries that serve their own version this holiday fishy favourite. You can try gourmet Fishmongers, Fishheads restaurant located right on main beach. There’s Hunky Dory– a Greek inspired seafood outlet, Beach Byron Bay for takeaway right on Clarkes Beach, and of course the iconic The Beach Hotel– with bonus people watching included.
Hunky Dory Fish & Chips
3pm
Get out of town. Why? Just behind Byron are truly stunning hinterland vistas, rolling hills, quaint villages, breezy lookouts and fabulous dining all await. Only a 15 minute drive away is picturesque Bangalow – filled with cafes, restaurants, creative wares and boutiques. Home to the Bangalow markets, this pretty hinterland village is worth an hour or two. Head to Woods for coffee, where owners Maggie and Julian have created a café that’s like an extension of their own home and kitchen. You’ll find their other very popular, and very delicious vegetarian garden café just off Ewingsdale Road in Byron Bay. Not much further off the old highway and you land at historic Newrybar – now a hamlet of collectables, fine food, and bakery delights. Harvest Newrybar offers an award winning restaurant, deli, inhouse bakery plus their own edible garden and fantastic ‘mini village’ for the kids. Newrybar Merchants across the road is a unique retail offering showcasing some of the creative local artisans and curators in the region – worth a stop.
Harvest Newrybar
7pm
Time to refuel after all that fun in the sun. With city expats bringing with them contemporary flair, you’ll never be short on dining option throughout your stay. Think Barrio, The Roadhouse, St Elmos, Three Blue Ducks at The Farm, Lightyears restaurant, the The Bolt Hole for after dinner drinks. All offering exceptional flavours in their own way.
Popular old favourites never die, and for good reason – try Treehouse at Belongil, The Beach Hotel, The Balcony Bar & Oyster Co, O’Sushi Byron Bay. Follow it up with drinks and music – think The Rails, the newly refurbished Byron Bay Brewery and the Great Northern Hotel.
The Roadhouse
Barrio
7am
The Top Shop has become somewhat of an institution, not just for locals. Once a 1951 milk bar, the place is now dancing with tasty burger combos, smoothies and cold pressed juices. Head there for breakfast for one last lashing of granola or a fried eggs and swiss cheese panini with rocket and relish.
The Top Shop
In town for more than 24hrs? We’ve got that too. If you want the hassle taken out of your itinerary and up for venturing with local experts, there’s a range of options. Whether it be a sunrise hike to Mt Warning, Minyon Falls adventure or a 2 day camp out combining surfing or kayaking with exploring the hinterland– we’ve got you covered!
