As a town that embraces all, the range of activities and free things to do in Byron Bay are as diverse as they are plentiful. Thrill-seekers and adventure-chasers can easily get their fix, as can those who are soul searching for more of Byron’s healing energy. Byron Bay offers nature lovers a playground of breathtaking scenery to explore. And of course, foodies, nightlife revellers and shoppers will have no shortage of things to do.
No matter what type of Byron Bay experience you’re after, take note of these 20 activities we’ve rounded up below, and prepare yourself for one awesome trip!
1. Walk to the Cape Byron Lighthouse and back
No trip to Byron is complete without having done this breathtaking walk with its scenic views. Pack a bag with sunscreen, bathers, a towel and water, and stop off for a swim at Watego or The Pass on the way back.
2. Revel in the busking
Wander the streets on any given evening, and you’ll likely find awesome live performers on the street. Did you know: Tones and I and Tash Sultana used to busk around Byron Bay before becoming world famous. You might just stumble upon the next worldwide sensation!
3. Stroll through the markets
From fresh produce to handmade treasures, Byron’s markets are always a vibe. In the town centre itself, there is the Byron Farmers Market (Thursdays), Byron Community Market (first Sunday of the month), Byron Twilight Market (from October to April). In the neighbouring suburbs, it’s also worth checking out the Bangalow Market (fourth Sunday of the month!).
4. Explore the Arts & Industrial Estate
This lesser-known area is great for eating, shopping, and lounging outside on the grass underneath the sun. Not to mention, local favourite Stone & Wood has its brewery and tasting room here!
5. Take part in Wake Up!’s free activities
Everyday, Wake Up! rolls out a range of complimentary activities for all guests. Why not start your morning with an energising yoga class in our onsite studio or join a meditation class.
6. Escape the crowds in the Hinterland
Explore the magic of Byron Bay’s surrounding towns, throughout the wider Byron Hinterland. Towns like Bangalow, Nimbin, Mullumbimby and Brunswick Heads should be on your list!
7. Be the first in Australia to see the sun rise
Byron is home to the most eastern point of mainland Australia. Which means you can be the first in the country to see the sunrise! Hop on board Wake Up!’s complimentary shuttle bus in the morning, which will take you to the Lighthouse viewing point in time for the spectacle.
8. Feel the energy at Crystal Castle
Experience the peace and energy of one of the world’s biggest crystal sanctuaries, Crystal Castle. Afterwards, settle in for a hot Mystic Monk Chai Latte or superfood smoothie at their plastic-free cafe.
9. Pick and eat fresh macadamia nuts
The Byron region is where much of Australia’s macadamia nut production comes from. Head to The Farm where you can wander their macadamia grove, find your own macadamias, and crack them right then and there.
10. Get groovin’ at a festival
Movers and shakers from all over the country come to Byron for its festival scene. Splendour In The Grass, Bluesfest and Falls Festival are three hugely epic festivals to check out!
11. Take a natural bath in a waterfall
At the magical outdoor wonderland of Nightcap National Park is where you’ll find Minyon Falls. Bathe in its water, or take the 3-4 hour Minyon Falls hiking track. Situated much closer to Byron Bay town, Killen Falls is another natural spectacle worth experiencing.
12. Dance the night away
Like a boogie? It won’t be long before Woody’s and Rails are added to your vocabulary!
13. Go snorkelling with turtles
If you’re looking for an awesome outdoor experience, then sign up to a Sea Turtle Snorkel Tour with Byron Bay Dive Centre.
14. Swim in Tea Tree Lake
Glide into the therapeutic waters of Lake Ainsworth (commonly known as Tea Tree Lake). Surrounded by tea tree plants whose brown oil seeps into the water, a ‘bath’ here is said to be a wonderful healing experience, that many come back to.
15. Take up surfing lessons
If you really want to experience the Byron Bay life, then you’ll need to head out surfing! Take up a day surfing lessons, and then use Wake Up!’s complimentary surfboard hire to keep practising.
16. Sip away on healthy smoothies
Byron Bay is a haven for health foods, vegan options and nourishing eats. Opt for a cleansing smoothie at places like Vagabond, Elixiba, Combi, Fundies, Manna Haven, and Bare Blends.
17. Hop on your bike
Affordable bike rentals are part of the perks for guests at Wake Up! Byron Bay. So, hop on a bike and pedal your way through the streets of Byron. There’s always something unique to discover on the back streets!
18. Have a sunset picnic on Belongil Beach
An absolute must-do for at least one of your nights in Byron, is to have a beachside picnic at sunset as the sun turns pink. Belongil Beach is located directly across the street from Wake Up! Byron, so you have no excuse to miss this one!
19. Soar in the sky with tandem hang gliding
Take up a tandem hang gliding experience, and soak in the scenes of insanely beautiful beaches. Keep an eye out for dolphins, turtles, white breasted sea eagles… and even a humpback whale or two!
20. Visit the Rainbow Temple
A truly unique experience, the Rainbow Temple is a hidden oasis located in the middle of a rainforest, about 30 minutes outside of Byron Bay. It’s a place to unwind, meet people, and soak up the healing energy. This is also a great place to go on a rainy day in Byron!