Curator’s statement
Byron Bay is one of those rare places that manages to feel both laid-back and quietly luxurious. It’s where you go to slow down, soak up the sun, and recalibrate—whether it’s riding horses through the hinterland or sipping natural wine at sunset. There’s a creative energy here that’s hard to explain but easy to feel. For me, it’s the ultimate reset button, with good design and better coffee as a bonus.
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Where to stay in Byron Bay
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Things to do in Byron Bay
The Eltham Hotel & Pub
Visit The farm
Start your day at The Farm Byron Bay, a working regenerative farm just outside town. Enjoy a wholesome breakfast at Three Blue Ducks, then wander the paddocks to meet the pigs, chickens, and cows. Don’t miss a scoop of farm-made ice cream from Baylato—flavors like Davidson Plum and Burnt Honey are local favorites.
Hike to Cape Byron Lighthouse
Take the scenic Cape Byron Walking Track, a four-kilometer loop through rainforest and along clifftops, leading to the iconic lighthouse—the easternmost point of mainland Australia. Keep an eye out for dolphins and whales in season. Afterward, cool off with a swim at The Pass or Clarkes Beach.
Swim at Wategos Beach
Spend a leisurely morning at Wategos Beach, a sheltered spot perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
Boutique shopping in Byron
Byron Bay boasts a vibrant shopping scene with a focus on design and sustainability.
Check out:
Tigmi Trading: A curated collection of Moroccan rugs and artisan homewares, perfect for design enthusiasts.
Nagnata: A Byron-born label offering luxe, sustainable activewear in a beautifully designed flagship store.
ROWIE, Zulu & Zephyr, Yoli & Otis: Local fashion brands with boutiques showcasing effortless coastal style.
Road trip to The Eltham Hotel
Take a scenic 35-minute drive inland to The Eltham Hotel, a lovingly restored 118-year-old pub nestled in the lush tropical hills between Byron Bay and Lismore. Under the culinary direction of acclaimed chef Alanna Sapwell-Stone, the pub offers elevated takes on classic Aussie fare, such as wild boar ragu and smoked eel dip with potato gems. Enjoy live music in the courtyard and consider staying overnight in one of their character-filled rooms.
Reset at Comma
No trip to Byron is complete without a visit to Comma, the cult-favorite modern spa designed for a full-body exhale. Choose from tension-melting massages, infrared sauna sessions, or their signature body oil treatments—set in a calming, minimalist space tucked behind the industrial estate.
Places to eat & drink in Byron Bay
Beach Byron Bay
Rae’s Dining Room
An iconic beachfront restaurant at Wategos Beach, Rae’s offers a Mediterranean-inspired menu highlighting local produce. Dishes like kangaroo-tail ragù and lobster pasta are served in a setting that combines coastal luxury with artistic flair.
Light Years
A lively spot known for its modern Asian cuisine and vibrant cocktails. Signature dishes include hot and tingly barbecued lamb ribs and five-spice roasted duck pancakes, making it a favorite for both locals and visitors.
Pixie Italian
Located in the heart of Byron, Pixie brings retro Milanese charm with a coastal twist. The menu features wood-fired pizzas and classic Italian dishes, all served in a stylish, relaxed atmosphere.
Bar Heather
A chic wine bar offering an extensive selection of natural wines and a menu of small plates with an Australian twist on French and Asian flavors. Standout dishes include green prawns with sambal and pork belly curry puffs.
Moonlight
An intimate Japanese hibachi grill and wine bar, Moonlight is known for its moody ambience and innovative dishes like watermelon sashimi and flame-grilled wagyu. The curated selection of biodynamic wines complements the unique menu.
Three Blue Ducks at The Farm
Set on a working farm, this restaurant offers a true farm-to-table experience. The menu changes with the seasons, featuring dishes like charred lamb skewers with green tahini and market fish with pipis and coriander butter.
Ciao, Mate!
A cozy Italian eatery in nearby Bangalow, Ciao, Mate! is celebrated for its innovative pizzas made with local ingredients. The intimate setting and creative menu make it a must-visit for pizza enthusiasts.
Need to know
Byron Bay is a year-round destination, but the sweet spot is late spring (October–November) or early autumn (March–April), when the weather is warm but not sweltering, the ocean is swimmable, and the crowds are thinner than peak summer. Avoid the Easter school holidays if you prefer a slower pace.
How to get around
The town itself is walkable, but to really experience the magic (and access those hinterland gems), renting a car is essential. This lets you explore everything from The Farm to Bangalow, Eltham, and beyond. Byron’s traffic and limited parking can be frustrating, so plan ahead—especially if you’re heading into town for dinner.
The charm of Byron lies just as much in its surrounding towns as in the town itself. Spend a morning in Bangalow for homewares and brunch, Newrybar for antiques and fine dining, and Eltham for a dose of country pub cool. The pace drops off just enough to make you feel like you’ve discovered a secret.
Travel Advisor
Alli Forde
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