Australia
Byron Bay
Surfers paddle into dawn beneath a lighthouse at mainland Australia's easternmost point.
Morning reaches Cape Byron as surfers paddle into the break below the lighthouse. Salt, sunscreen and flowering gardens follow the road back towards town, while dolphins may surface beyond the headland.
Byron Bay sits beside Australia's easternmost mainland point, where subtropical coast meets the Pacific. Cape Byron's walking track, beaches and lighthouse provide the immediate draw; Julian Rocks Nguthungulli Nature Reserve offshore supports diving and snorkelling when operators and conditions allow. Inland, the Nightcap and Border Ranges protect Gondwanan rainforest, waterfalls and walking country, giving the destination more than a famous beach scene.
Solo
Surf, yoga, and farmers' market wandering; Byron rewards solo travellers who move at their own pace and don't mind sandy feet.
Couple
Lighthouse walks at dawn, hinterland retreats with outdoor baths, and dinners at The Farm where the produce grew metres away.
Friends
Surf together, eat together, share a beachfront house; Byron is well suited to friends seeking warm water and no agenda.
- The Cape Byron walking track climbs through coastal vegetation to the easternmost mainland point.
- Headland lookouts and licensed marine trips offer chances to see dolphins, turtles and seasonal whales without guaranteeing them.
- The hinterland adds rainforest walks, waterfalls and small-town food stops to a coastal stay.
- Byron Farmers Market gathers seasonal produce, bread and macadamia products from the region.
Seasonal fruit, bread and local produce at Byron Farmers Market.
Paddock-to-plate dishes at The Farm, where the growing and eating happen on the same site.
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