Located in the Northern Rivers region in New South Wales, Australia just off the Pacific Highway about 800 kilometres north of Sydney, 170 kilometres south of Brisbane and 90 kilometres south of Gold Coast is none other than Byron Bay. Having the pleasure and privilege of making a recent trip to Byron Bay, I must say I was truly impressed by what this coastal town had to offer. Beautiful sceneries, friendly people, good food and heaps of things to do!
Now if you are planning on going for a holiday soon, Byron Bay is definitely a place you should consider. Here’s a list of things to do in Byron Bay:
1. Skydive
Perfect for those who love the adrenaline rush, a must do in Byron Bay is definitely to skydive! Catch the view of this beautiful place from miles up and have the time of your life!
2. Visit Cape Byron Light
Located at Cape Byron, the Cape Byron Light is Australia’s most powerful lighthouse. Enjoy a nice walk up to the lighthouse from the beach to catch the most magnificent view of the island. Quite a steep hike with a bit of a slog, make sure you are in the best shape for this walk. Also, carry a bottle of water with you!
3. Attend Byron Bay Bluesfest
Now if you happen to be a music fan, you must take a trip to Byron Bay during the Easter holidays for the legendary annual Byron Bay Bluesfest. Featuring a stellar lineup every year, this five day music festival takes place every Easter and is definitely not a festival any music enthusiast would want to miss out on.
4. Surf
Whether you know how to surf or not, surfing in Byron Bay is a must! The glorious waves at the beach is all the convincing you need to get on the surfboard and head straight out into the waters. Classes are available for beginners!
5. Partake in Silent Disco
Yes, we have this in Malaysia and yes this may sound like nothing special but boy, you are so wrong. Brought to the locals and tourists by Funmaker, an Australian party van, these guys are parked near the beach every night for people to enjoy and dance to their choice of music. The glow in dark lights and dancing in the open is a freedom that not many know how to enjoy. Are you up for it?
6. Hit the pubs
Like anywhere else, it is a must to hit the local pubs and bars around town! Beach Hotel bar, Cheeky Monkeys Restaurant and Bar as well as Mr. Johnson’s are some of the bars in Byron Bay that serve the best alcohol and has some of the very best local bands performing for customers.
7. Get hair wraps or feathers
Considering that Byron Bay is quite a hippie central, it is only normal for one to get her hair wrapped or to get feathers in her hair. A quaint little store located at Jonson’s Street provides hair wrap services and it can be done in 10 to 15 minutes, depending on hair length.
8. Catch the street shows
Every night, by the park near the beach, there will be performers around to entertain the crowd. Be it busking or fire dancing, there is hardly ever a dull moment in Byron Bay. Performing at different slots, the last show ends at right about midnight.
9. Shop at the markets
The weekly roving markets of the Byron Bay are are famous for its new age funkiness, range of products and brilliant atmosphere. Happening on the first, second and fourth Sundays of each month, these markets consists of art and craft-works, great food and clothes!
10. Sea kayaking
This is an adventure you that will most probably be the highlight of your visit to Byron Bay. Sea kayak and enjoy paddling with dolphins while learning about the local aboriginal stories and sacred places. If you’re lucky, you just might get to see whales too!
