Byron Bay

Byron Bay, Australia

From World Heritage rainforest to sparkling beaches, the Byron Bay region on the NSW North Coast is full of natural wonders. The Aboriginal Arakwal people call it Cavvanbah - the meeting place. The area is also famous for its surf culture, alternative philosophies, organic food and outdoor adventures. Byron Bay's natural attractions are impeccable - humpback whales cruise past the headland, dolphins frolic in the bay and storms create rainbows on the mountains. People from all walks of life meet here, drawn by Byron Bay's vibrant energy.

Population:

Latest census of Byron Shire 30,000

Currency:

Australian Dollar (AUD) $1 = 100 cents

Emergency Numbers:

Police, Fire and Ambulance 000

Opening Hours:

Opening hours vary but most shops are open 9am - 5.30pm on weekdays and 9am - 12pm Saturdays with the major centres open until 5pm. On Sundays some bigger shopping centres are open from 10am - 4pm. Many of the bigger centres also have Thursday and Friday late night shopping until 9pm.

Newspapers:

The Byron Shire Echo
Byron Shire News

The City

Byron Bay is Australia's easternmost town and a place of outstanding natural beauty. The beachside town is set against lush volcanic hills on the NSW North Coast and has been popular among surfers since the 1960s. The Aquarius Festival in 1973 in Nimbin, a town in the Byron Bay hinterland, helped foster the image of the region as a place of alternative philosophies.

Since then architects, designers, artisans and software engineers have set up shop, grafting their talents and energy onto this relaxed town. Rich soils and sustainable farming practices around Byron Bay create enviable fresh produce. You can savour the delicious local produce in the area's restaurants, cafés and markets.

Even with its popularity as a holiday destination, Byron Bay has retained its small town charm. Australia's most easterly point casts a spell over everyone who goes there. You'll find plenty of places to stay, from elegant hotels and resorts to hostels and camping grounds. There are plenty of services to help you relax, from yoga classes to day spas, and thrilling adventures to pump up your adrenaline.

With its natural beauty, outdoor adventures and delicious food, Byron Bay attracts people from all over the world and the mild climate makes it a splendid destination year-round. The traditional owners take an active role in the management of Arakwal National Park and of Bundjalung Aboriginal country.

Do & See

Byron Bay is a great place to get active, be it surfing, kayaking, sailing or swimming at a beautiful beach. Enjoy the thrill of skydiving and hand-gliding, and see a glorious sunrise from a hot-air balloon. Climb Mount Warning, an extinct volcano, and walk in World Heritage rainforest.

Snorkelling and diving are popular, too. The reefs around Byron Bay are teeming with colourful fish, turtles and corals. Visit the resident dolphins on a kayak in Cape Byron Marine Park and spot whales during their annual migration from a headland, kayak or cruise boat.

Byron Bay also celebrates the arts. Each year some of the best musicians in the world perform in Byron Bay. Bluesfest is Australia’s premier blues and roots festival. Splendour in the Grass is an exciting mix of contemporary performers. And there are writers and film festivals.

From verdant hinterland and sparkling beaches to acclaimed festivals and farmers markets, Byron Bay offers many exhilarating and delightful things to do and see. Explore the region’s enchanting towns, markets and boutiques, and unwind in the easy-going atmosphere.

Events

From world-class music festivals to celebrations of writing and filmmaking, Byron Bay is a hub for music, sports and culture. An assortment of vibrant events keep Byron Bay and the surrounding towns and villages buzzing all year.

Cafés, Dining & Nightlife

Byron Bay is a delight for lovers of fresh seafood and organic produce, available in cafés and restaurants. At beautiful beachside locations you’ll enjoy good food, and the cosmopolitan culture delivers great espresso and a vibrant nightlife with great music venues.

Talented chefs use local seasonal produce to create mouth-watering dishes. The main strip of Jonson Street is bustling with al fresco dining options, with various cuisines on offer including Modern Australian, Asian and Italian. You’ll also find vegetarian options.

With refurbished farmhouses showcasing the best of the 'paddock to plate' philosophy, breweries offering on-site restaurants to pair with their ales, and vegetarian cooking classes that use local ingredients, it's easy to fall in love with Byron Bay and its passionate food producers.