7 things to do in Byron Bay

Huns in the hinterland

Byron Bay has a long history as one of Australia’s most cherished hippy coastal hideaways. But not being able to leave NSW has seen New South Walers flocking there in droves, making it more heaving than hideaway.

Home to Cape Byron State Conservation Park and lush hinterland, Byron has a balmy, subtropical feel that truly makes visitors feel on holiday, while its sprawling nature, wide-ranging activities and many delicious restaurants make it a getaway that floats everyone’s boat.

But despite becoming increasingly touristy (influencers, eat your heart out) and some ugly chains popping up that slightly dim its bohemian mystique, this bustling beach haven should most definitely be one of everyone’s Aussie adventures, IMO.

Here are seven things to do in Byron Bay.

1. Broken Head Nature Reserve

Wowser. The wild beauty of Broken Head Nature Reserve will stun even the most hard-to-impress huns. The steep track from the car park sweeps down to a beautiful secluded sandy beach backed by rocky, jungly headlands. 

There are often quite strong currents that pull you out to sea so you have to be careful not to drown, but it’s a dreamy place to spend a day chilling on a wild, deserted beach.

2. Mullumbimby

Mullumbimby, known affectionately by the locals as ‘Mullum’, is a sleepy hippy town with a stunning backdrop of Mount Chincogan – part of a large shield volcano, Mount Warning, which erupted millions of years ago. A sign at the entrance to the town welcomes visitors with the words: ‘Mullumbimby: The Biggest Little Town in Australia’ – which, though I’m not sure quite what it means, seems fitting?

It’s a tropical, palm tree-lined place with a relaxed vibe and some great pubs; the Middle Pub is a great place to have drinks on the balcony overlooking this quaint little township. A visit to the quirky ‘Kiva Spa’ is a must; with its silent saunas and jacuzzies, a steam room that’s hotter than the actual sun and a freezing plunge pool, it’s the perfect way to wash and sweat away a weekend of sin. Don’t talk in the silent sauna though – they will flog you.

3. The Farm

As its name suggests, this restaurant is on a farm where pigs, chickens and cattle roam its pastures – hence its ‘paddock to plate’ ethos (veggies might be spooked by this). Surrounded by fields of macadamia & pecan trees, it’s a great place to spend a few hours eating delicious food and drinking while taking in its unique surroundings. I did really enjoy the food but I found its proximity to the animals a bit jarring – despite them having quite a happy life and lots of space to roam around. Then again, I suppose if you’re not comfortable with the idea of eating animals then you probably just shouldn’t eat meat – so that’s my demon to contend with. On balance, I did like the place but I can see how it wouldn’t be for everyone.

4. The Balcony

Have some oysters and cocky Ts at The Balcony bar and you won’t regret it. This airy eatery is metres from the beach and its balcony looks out onto…a roundabout. But it is very glamorous and the margaritas are banging, so it’s an ideal evening spot, I’d say.

5. Crystal Castle & Shambhala Gardens

I didn’t really expect to like this place as much as I did, given I’ve never been one for these ‘powerful centres of healing’ *snigger* – but it’s actually now one of my favourite places in Byron. Located in the hinterland, this magical sanctuary takes you on a journey through its luscious green Shambhala Gardens and bamboo-lined rainforest, scattered with giant crystals, an amethyst cave and a labyrinth. 

Crystal healing aside, this place was a beautiful, serene fairy tale setting with one of the best views of the Byron hinterland. They do meditation sessions there – and natch it’s a good place for it.

6. Kayak with dolphins

Set off on a ‘Kayak with the dolphins’ trip and you just might see some dolphins. We didn’t. Livid. Just a few jellyfish. But it was cool to be out and about in the sea and to learn some interesting factoids about Byron marine life.

7. The Pass

Overlooked by Cape Byron Lighthouse (also worth a walk up to – and the location of Australia’s most easterly point), the Pass is a spot for surfing and sunset strolls. Its long breaks make it ideal for beginner surfers, and if you’re lucky you might spot some dolphins hanging around. We saw a couple near where we were surfing the time before last and I lost my shit. The sunsets here aren’t to be missed, as you can see from the pic.