What to do in Byron Bay

Surfing: There is an inevitable emphasis on water activities, not surprising since this is where temperate and tropical waters merge, making it an absolute pleasure to sink deep into the bays watery womb. But what if you don’t know your rips from your swells? Never fear, for if there is anywhere in the world to learn surfing, this has got to be one of the best! So hang ten and join one of the many surf classes on offer and before you know it you’ll be off on the crest of a wave (if you can hang onto the board long enough!). 

Diving: For those who prefer the beauty of what lies beneath, head to Julian Rocks, a short boat ride from Main Beach for some thrilling underwater encounters. Hard core divers have rated Julian Rocks amongst the top 10 dive sites in the whole of Australia – go there before the news gets out! 

Boating and Whale Watching: If you prefer to be ‘on’ the water rather than ‘in’ the water, head out on a boat charter or even hire a sailing yacht if you’re willing to take the helm! At certain times of year, Cape Byron is a passageway for humpback whales migrating north and there are spectacular opportunities to enjoy the awesome experience of whale watching. The size of these magnificent mammals has to be seen to be believed. If you’re unlucky enough to miss out on the whales, you are almost certain to spot pods of bottlenose dolphins that frequent the bays almost daily.

Walking: Perhaps you never discovered your sea legs and you’d rather remain on terra firma? Why not just relax in one of the hip cafes overlooking the bays, treat yourself to a leisurely lunch and then walk it off by taking the 5km walking trail up to the headlands to see the famed lighthouse, looking downwards at the jaw dropping scenes. On your way back down you can take in the splendour of exotic palms and flowers in the nearby lush sub-tropical coastal rainforest. Reward yourself for the effort by stopping in at one of truly luxurious health retreats on offer and let someone else soothe the aches and pains away, while you dream of supper overlooking the bay at sunset.

Biking: Or you could try an altogether very different way of taking in the Bay’s attractions. Be the envy of friends and family by regaling them with tales of your laid back biker trip round the coastline on the back of a Harley Davidson! You can even see the sights from above by tandem hang gliding – an experienced instructor is of course the recommended buddy! And for those that prefer 2 muddy wheels, there are numerous natural reserves to explore on mountain bike. Feel the adrenalin rush of the steep downhills before stopping off for a well earned beer.

Shopping: It doesn’t end there. After indulging in the natural delights on offer, why not sample the tastes and textures of the local roving markets? Ask any of the locals and they’ll soon give you the low down. Byron Bay’s markets are known for miles around and offer up everything from delicious home-made organic cuisine to new age and local crafts. It’s the perfect place to buy all your travel gifts. There is something for everyone, not least of all the kids who will thoroughly enjoy the face painting artists who can create a visual work of art on even the naughtiest liveliest little devils!

Sleeping

Despite the laid back bohemian feel of Byron Bay, you are not restricted to staying in a ‘PEACE’ painted ‘love bus’ parked at the edge of the beach, there are accommodation options to suit all tastes and pockets here, including some rather up-market suites. Or at the other end of the scale, if you want to feel ‘at one’ with nature, you could head to Broken Head Nature Reserve where the rainforest truly does meet the sea, with pristine sandy beach acting as go-between. This is the only Reserve in which you are permitted to pitch a tent, so why not make the most of it and settle down under the doona to the cacophony of bird calls and cicadas, while re-living the memories of classic scenes from the cult surf movie ‘Morning Of The Earth’, filmed at Broken Head. What better way to end a day?