3 days in Byron Bay

The waters surrounding Byron Bay are full of dolphins, whales (in season) and sea turtles. Kayak among them with Go Sea Kayak, where you’ll leave straight from the beach and paddle through clear, blue ocean.

From powdery surf beaches to calm coves, Byron’s beaches immediately introduce a sense of relaxation. Simply lay back on the sand and keep an eye out for dolphins, or explore rock pools and coves.

Heritage and innovation come together on the Byron Solar Train. Sit back and relax on vintage lounge seats as the rainforest and wetland scenery passes by. The best part? This train runs entirely on the sun.

Set on the sparkling waterfront overlooking Clarkes Beach, Beach Byron Bay Restaurant offers casual fare in a breezy environment. The menu celebrates the best of the region; think mussels, roasted fish and local mushrooms.

Elements of Byron is an award-winning beachfront resort. If the beautiful freestanding villas aren’t enough to convince you to stay, the experiences (like sunrise yoga, onsite spa and adult-only pool) surely will.

Start your day with a yoga session near the beach as the sun rises. Breathe in the salty air and listen to the waves crash as you stretch, pose and feel the sun against your skin. Now that’s what we call a classic Byron Bay morning.

Byron Bay’s inland sister, Bangalow is a tight-knit town known for its creative flair, love of the outdoors and Federation-style buildings. Stroll down the historic main street and visit the many independent boutiques.

Connect with the local Aboriginal peoples on a tour with Explore Byron Bay. Your Aboriginal guide will teach you about their history, bush medicine and traditional stories. A bush foods tasting will have you tasting flavours you've never even imagined.

Newrybar is a quaint hinterland town known as the home of Harvest – an award-winning restaurant. The dishes here are simple and honest, celebrating the farmers, artisans and produce that make this region so delicious. Be sure to book ahead.

If you love getting active in nature, then don’t miss your chance to explore the Byron Bay hinterland. Byron Bay Adventure Tours will guide you through the World Heritage listed Nightcap National Park to waterfalls and fresh swimming holes.

Return to the coast to dine at one of Byron’s many restaurants. You’re spoilt for choice, from modern Asian menus to Italian diners. Balcony Bar and Oyster Co. is perfect if you’re after fresh oysters right by the water.

A must-do in Byron? Watching the sunrise from the Cape Byron Lighthouse. Byron Bay lies on the most easterly point of mainland Australia, which means you’ll be one of the first to see the sun peek out from behind the horizon.

There are some unforgettable ways to see Byron Bay from above. Try tandem hang gliding for the ultimate thrill of flying above the ocean, even spotting the occasional dolphin or whale. You can also go skydiving from 15,000 feet.

The waters offshore from Byron are calm and shallow, making them a magnet for marine life. Go on a sea safari where you’ll strap on a snorkel in search of turtles, manta rays, dolphins and gentle sharks. It’s incredible to see the underwater world come to life.

Imagine yourself on the back of a beautiful horse, trotting along a beautiful beach. Sound like a dream? It’s a reality with Zephyr Horses. They offer horse riding tours through sub-tropical woodlands and onto the sand.

Wategos Beach is one of the most stunning beaches in all of Byron, so it’s the perfect place for a picturesque lunch. Sit down at Raes for modern Australian cuisine with a Mediterranean twist, to be enjoyed within the refined, coastal dining room.

Stone & Wood craft beer began in Byron, so it’s only fitting that they’ve built a brewery here open to visitors. Taste the full range of craft beers in the leafy garden and take a behind-the-scenes tour to see what goes into every crisp glass of beer.

If there’s one thing the team behind Three Blue Ducks believes in, it’s honest, ethical food. Their Byron restaurant has become a sought-after experience, bringing together the best sustainably sourced ingredients and creating fresh, delicious dishes.