Are you itching for a cultural fix? Or do you just need to get away from the big cities to relax…perhaps try a new age treatment? Enjoy the arts, the alternative lifestyle, the beautiful beaches and the laid-back vibes Byron Bay is known for.
Following last week’s music event, “Splendour in the Grass”, the area is now preparing to host the Byron Bay Writers Festival. This weekend, over 100 of Australia’s most distinguished writers will collect in Byron Bay to participate in readings, panels, conversations, and launches.
You may be more interested in the Byron Bay Bluesfest on Easter weekend, the Underwater Festival, a photography competition, in September, the Surf Festival in October, the International Film Festival in March, or the Nimbin MardiGrass in May, among many other event options. Interestingly enough, the laid-back and relaxed Byron Bay invites a lot of action!
Beyond its large array of cultural festivals, Byron Bay is home to several permanent attractions, many of which are natural beauties. Byron Bay’s beaches are among the best in Australia, especially for surfers.The seemingly endless beach has areas that are sheltered from the southerlies, providing great surf breaks. Take advantage of these conditions by booking a surf lesson in a small class.
Further, it is not a trip to Byron Bay if you do not take the hike to Cape Byron, the easternmost point of mainland Australia. From where the Coral and Tasman Seas meet, enjoy spectacular far-reaching views.Take the scenic walk to the Cape Byron Lighthouse, built in 1901. Continuing down Little Watego and Watego’s beaches, spot dolphins, rays, sea turtles, and whales in the right seasons.
Depending on what sort of activities you enjoy, you can see Byron Bay’s stunning coastline from different angles. Take a sea kayak tour past Cape Byron and look up to see the Lighthouse; also, get up close to dolphins, sea turtles, and whales in the appropriate seasons. Alternatively, take to the skies and enjoy views of the beautiful coast, ocean, and rainforest from above. If you are seeking thrills, sky dive over Byron Bay or, if you are looking to mellow out, take a peaceful hot air balloon ride.
While Byron Bay’s beaches are better known, its rainforest are also worth a visit. For a unique experience, try a night vision bushwalk.
Using night vision goggles, see nocturnal wildlife without spooking them with torches while hiking through the lush rainforest.
Of course, try to get a taste of the alternative culture Byron Bay has to offer. Experience true tranquility in the peaceful gardens of the Crystal Castle. Walk the ancient sacred labyrinth, visit the giant stone Blessing Buddha, shop for crystals and jewellery, take an aura photo or get a reading done.
You may also experience the lifestyle of Byron Bay’s most colourful people in a trip to Nimbin, a hippy village. Consider these highlights and choose how you will enjoy Byron Bay. In Australia’s birthplace of the hippy culture, you are free to do as you please!
Book your Byron Bay experiences here!
Byron Bay is a beautiful place to explore and just relax, if you make it further north to the city of Brisbane be sure to see it in its glory and hire a bike. It’s the easiest and cheapest way to see all its sights.