Pack your sunnies, sunscreen, and sense of adventure, this Byron Bay itinerary is your ticket to beach fun and boho bliss!
As a classic beach town, Byron Bay has it all: sun, surf, and sand. But it’s the add-ons that give character to this super popular destination. We mean dolphins, hippie boutiques, sunrise strolls, and sunset cocktails.
Byron Bay sits on Cape Byron, the most easterly point of mainland Australia. The town is nestled between the Pacific Ocean on one side and a rainforest-dotted hinterland on the other.
Most who visited Byron Bay 10 years ago might say the town has changed. Indeed, its intense popularity has brought massive crowds, higher prices, and even jam-packed roads.
Still, Byron Bay holds a special place in our hearts. So, we’ve created this Byron Bay itinerary to help you navigate the town and make the best of your holiday.
Three days in Byron Bay is enough to enjoy coastal walks, laze on beaches, shop at markets, and perhaps squeeze in a yoga class or a behind-the-scenes tour at a brewery—all without feeling rushed.
You can tweak this itinerary to your liking. Add or remove activities to fit your schedule and preference.
Now, get ready to swap your work shoes for sandy toes. See you in Byron Bay!
How to Spend a Perfect 3 Days in Byron Bay
Byron Bay is a choose-your-own-adventure kind of place, but full of stunning beaches and minus the wrong turns. This three days in Byron Bay guide covers it all.
While you don’t need a car to get around the town centre, we recommend having your own wheels if you want to explore more beaches and hikes outside Byron!
The best way to get around is to rent a car and explore on your own! We recommend Rental Cars, which has the largest range of vehicles for the best value on the market.
Day 1
On day one, focus on the beaches right outside your doorstep and the iconic Cape Byron Lighthouse. The total walking time is roughly two to three hours, broken up with swims, snacks, and soaking up the stunning views.
Morning: Arrive at Byron Bay and Main Beach
Kick off your Byron Bay day one right where the town meets the ocean: Main Beach.
Summer or not, Main Beach is almost always buzzing with street performers, surfers, and all sorts of beachgoers. Go for a dip, throw down a towel, or walk along the sand.
Learning to surf? There’s no better place to take a surf lesson than Main Beach. Thanks to its gentle but consistent waves, the beach is popular among beginners and those honing their skills.
Best of all, it has plenty of surf schools. Book a 2-hour small group surf lesson or a more extensive half-day surf tour.
Mid-Morning: Clarkes Beach, The Pass
After your surf lesson, head east toward Clarkes Beach. You’ll barely notice the transition, as it’s one gorgeous long stretch. Except, Clarkes is surprisingly serene.
Bask in the scenery before continuing to The Pass. It’s about a 20-minute walk along the sand or a sign-posted footpath.
The Pass is a famous surfing spot, although it can be dangerous during the winter months (June-August) when the waves are big. But when the swells are mild, it’s a lovely place for a swim.
A short walk away is the Fisherman’s Lookout, a wooden platform with sweeping vistas over the surf break and Cape Byron beyond. You might even spot a dolphin or perhaps whales in winter.
Lunch? Check out The Pass Cafe. It’s casual and chill, serving quick options like burgers, salads, acai bowls, and killer coffee.
Afternoon: Wategos Beach
Keep following the coastal path, and you’ll arrive at the dreamy Wategos Beach in 15 minutes.
Sheltered from strong ocean waves, Wategos is postcard perfection with its white sand, crystal clear waters, and slightly luxe atmosphere.
From Wategos, pick up the Cape Byron Walking Track. It’s a 3.7-km loop trail that takes one to three hours to complete.
Hikers who prefer a shorter and easier route can access the trail from various points, including the Captain Cook Lookout and Wategos Beach.
Because you’re starting the trail from Wategos, you can reach the Cape Byron Lighthouse in 20 to 30 minutes.
Late Afternoon: Cape Byron
Cape Byron is Australia’s most easterly point. Its most distinguishable landmark is the 118-metre Victorian lighthouse.
At the base of the lighthouse is the Cape Byron Maritime Museum, open from 10 am to 4 pm daily. While general entry is free, guided tours have a small fee.
The lighthouse is well-known for its pastel sunsets. Aim to reach Cape Byron at least 30 minutes before sundown to grab a good spot.
Tip: If you want to learn about the history of the land while exploring the beaches, consider booking a Cape Byron Bay Aboriginal tour.
After sunset, you can walk into town on the Lighthouse Road. The distance is two kilometres, which may take 30 to 45 minutes.
The road is mostly downhill, and there’s no designated footpath, but it’s lit up enough to be safe. Or, if you’re exhausted, you can opt for a taxi or ride-sharing service.
Evening: Byron Bay Town Centre (Balcony Bar)
For a well-deserved dinner, head to the Balcony Bar and Oyster Co.
They serve tapas, cocktails, and, of course, oysters. The Balcony Bar has an easy-going ambience and is fantastic for people-watching.
Plan more activities with our list of the best things to do in Byron Bay!
Day 2
For your Byron Bay day two, head inland into the majestic hinterland. We recommend renting a car for this road trip so you can take your time exploring the spots.
You can also visit the Byron Bay hinterland on guided day trips. There are amazing ones, including a waterfalls hidden gems tour and a glow worms rainforest experience.
Morning: Killen Falls and Cape Byron Distillery
Set off at 7:00 am to make the most out of your day. But first, grab a coffee or a delicious breakfast at Bayleaf Cafe.
The first stop is Killen Falls, about 25 minutes inland from Byron Bay town. Park at the Killen Falls Reserve carpark and take the 15-minute bush walk down to the base of the waterfalls.
You can swim in the small pool, but be cautious of the potential hazards like submerged rocks, strong currents, and variable water quality, especially after heavy rainfall.
After, drive 15 minutes back toward the coast to Cape Byron Distillery, home of award-winning Brookie’s Gin.
Book the 1.5-hour morning tour and learn about the native botanical used in making the spirits.
If you’re driving, we strongly recommend you don’t drink. But you can buy a bottle or two to take home.
Tip: Join a brewery and distillery tour to sample the best beers, spirits, and cocktails in Byron Bay.
Mid-morning: The Farm Byron Bay
Jump back in the car for a short drive to The Farm Byron Bay. This 32-hectare oasis is equal parts plant nursery, market garden, and working farm.
Join a guided tour and learn about sustainable farming while walking past fields dotted with animals and flower gardens. Also on the property are a local produce store, a bakery, and an ice cream shop.
For lunch, check out the on-site restaurant, Three Blue Ducks (reservation may be necessary). It gets most, if not all, of its ingredients from the farm.
Afternoon: Nightcap National Park
After lunch, it’s a bit of a longer drive (around 45 minutes) inland to the Nightcap National Park.
Set your destination to Minyon Falls Lookout. From the viewing point, you can see the cascades plunge into the lush valley below.
If you’re feeling adventurous, do part of the Minyon Falls walking track. You don’t need to do the whole 7.5-km loop. Even a shorter hike offers striking rainforest views.
You can walk to the base of the falls from the Minyon Grass picnic area. The trail is 4 km (return) and takes about an hour to complete.
The descent is relatively easy, but the last 100 metres entail climbing over boulders. Be sure to wear footwear with good traction.
Spend at least two hours at the park. Then, drive back to the Byron Bay town centre (takes 1.5 hours).
Sunset: Tallow Beach
From the town centre, head to Tallow Beach, a 40-minute drive. The beach is a peaceful spot to watch the sun go down.
Read next: 21 Best Things To Do In New South Wales, Australia
Day 3
On your final morning in Byron Bay, marvel at abundant marine life. Then, indulge in retail therapy in the afternoon.
Morning: Cape Byron Marine Park or Julian Rocks (or both)
After breakfast, head to the beach and grab your kayaks for an unforgettable day at the Cape Byron Marine Park.
The 22,000-hectare park spans from Brunswick Heads to Lennox Head and comprises several marine ecosystems.
While you can kayak independently in the park, we recommend you go there with a guide, such as this Byron Bay Sea Kayak tour. Look out for dolphins, sea turtles, and even whales during the migration season.
If you prefer underwater wonders instead, book a snorkelling tour at Julian Rocks Marine Reserve. You can schedule after your kayak tour.
Or, if you don’t want to get wet but still want to get close to wild marine life, consider joining a whale-watching tour when in season.
Afternoon: Industrial Estate
Also known as the Arts and Industry Estate, the Industrial Estate is your one-shop stop for everything fun, tasty, and artistic.
This community hub, located just outside the Byron Bay town centre, is a collection of businesses like restaurants, yoga studios, a craft brewery, and shops selling anything from surfboards to organic cosmetics.
If you’re hungry, order takeout then head to Belongil Beach for a pleasant picnic on the sand. Or, you can go to Tyagarah Nature Reserve and enjoy your meal by the lily pad-dotted lake.
Evening: Fletcher Street
Spend your final day in Byron Bay shopping for souvenirs at Fletcher. This lively street also offers plenty of dining options. Check out Casa Luna or No Bones Byron Bay for their delicious food.
Explore more of New South Wales with these epic road trips!
Byron Bay Travel Guide
With your Byron Bay adventure mapped out, it’s time to cover the essentials — when to visit, how to get around, and where to stay.
When to Visit Byron Bay
Each season has its perks, but spring (September-November) and autumn (March-May) hit the trifecta of good weather, smaller crowds, and likely lower prices.
Summer (December-February) is the liveliest and priciest. It’s perfect for hitting the beach and enjoying outdoor activities. But if you don’t like big crowds, this season isn’t for you.
Winter (June-August) brings cheaper prices and fewer tourists. It’s also prime season for whale-watching and surfing (the Byron Bay Surf Festival happens every August).
But temps drop while waves rise, making the season unsuitable for many water activities. Also, some shops and eateries enforce limited hours during the colder months.
Heading further south? Here is our guide for the best time to visit Sydney!
Getting Around Byron Bay
Most attractions in Byron Bay are within walking distance from each other. Renting a bike is a fun way to reach spots like Wategos Beach or the Lighthouse.
Consider renting a car or joining a guided tour for longer distances. There are public buses, but it’s best to have your vehicle for flexibility.
If you’re arriving from the Gold Coast, you can book a bus transfer to Byron Bay. While there are no hop-on hop-off buses, you can get taxis and Ubers regularly around town.
Where to Stay in Byron Bay
Luxury resort? Cozy hotel? Lively hostel? Byron Beach has many options to match every budget and travel style.
Best Hostel – The Surf House
The Surf House offers premium lodging at affordable prices. Its main draw is the private suites and shared rooms. But the Surf House is also known for its location—with the best restaurants and beaches at your doorstep.
Best Mid-Range Hotel – Beach Hotel Resort
Surrounded by tropical gardens, the Beach Hotel Resort is your tranquil escape from the bustle of the town centre. On-site is a swimming pool, Tesla charging stations, bikes, and a spa. Right next to the property is a pub with live music.
Best Luxury Hotel – Elements Of Byron
Embrace ultimate indulgence in this 50-acre resort and spa. The property features private villas furnished with chic beach architecture. Facilities include a lagoon pool, bar with signature cocktails, rainforest eco-trail, day spa and tennis court.
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