Byron Bay

Byron Bay is a small town with a big personality. It lies at Australia’s easternmost point and the subtropical weather and laid-back ambiance is famous with surfers, hippies, writers and celebrities, as well as travellers in search of the quintessential Australian beach town. They are never disappointed.

The beaches are the main attraction here. Off Cape Byron are the Pass and Watego’s Beach, which are famous among surfers. Continuing north is Clarks Beach, which has smaller surf. After that is Main Beach, the swimming and sunbathing spot with much calmer waters. Belongil Beach, also good for surfing, is clothing optional. South of the cape is Tallow Beach, a long sandy strip in front of the Arakwal National Park that often has rough seas but is good for a walk. On top of Cape Byron is the Lighthouse, a beautiful beacon of Byron’s maritime heritage. Park a third of the way up and walk; otherwise, parking costs $7.

Just walking through the fascinating streets of Byron is pleasing enough. Its residents, though bombarded by tourists daily, are welcoming and friendly. And walking is the preferred mode of transport as the town is so small. If you want to visit another town in the area, there are regional buses with regular service. You can also rent bikes from almost any hostel.

There are many activities in the area to choose from, the most popular of course being surfing lessons.

The International Blues & Roots Music Festival takes over town each Easter. The Byron Bay Writers Festival in July also attracts a crowd.

The café scene here is brilliant, and the bars off Jonson Street are packed with models and pro surfers nightly. All these things combine to give Byron an infectious vibe; one which causes many backpackers to find jobs and stay much longer than they had planned.