It's home away from home for me. Who doesn't want a life lived entirely on holiday? Sun-soaked beaches, sweet ginger juice, and cool ocean breezes.
I've been coming to Byron for over 20 years.
It's the haute hippie heartland of the NSW North Coast.
Discover the irresistible charm of Byron Bay, Australia—a coastal haven that has long attracted surfers, free spirits, wellness seekers, artists, and well-known figures. Immerse yourself in a vibrant community of like-minded individuals, where creativity thrives and an entrepreneurial spirit fuels independent makers and bold thinkers pursuing unconventional, purpose-driven ventures.
Byron lets you escape convention, reconnect with nature, and embrace the serene landscape.
I ride my bike everywhere. There are paths everywhere, from Suffolk Park to the Industrial estate, with my furry friend 🐕🐾seated at the rear.
Most of my recommendations cater to my favourite child ... the furry one
COFFEE
Espresso Head - good food, great coffee, good times. A local's hideout. Seasonal food grown by producers of locally grown & organic food. Some of our favourites are – The Byron Farmers Market, The Bread Social, Hayters Hill, Coopers Shoot Tomatoes, The Byron Bay Milk Co., and Clunes Butcher.
Sparrow - hole in the wall. Opens at 6.30 am. It wakes up Byron. A favourite morning ritual. Serving my fave Allpress coffee.
EAT
La Puligiapasta bar - Simple but delicious. Fresh local ingredients, Daily specials. My fave is the Pesto!
Hotel Marvel -High-end, relaxed luxury. You can't go past an afternoon sitting on the deck sipping a Campari Spritz and experiencing their $3.00 oyster specials at 5 pm. (For the "Frugal Foodies" amongst us -Tuesdays are Pasta night and Wednesdays are Steak night)
SWIM
Every morning, rain or shine, a dedicated group gathers on the deck of the Byron Bay Surf Club, ready for their ocean swim. They are known as the Stingrays. They accept all-comers.
At 8 a.m. sharp, they set off on the 20-minute stroll to The Pass—strolling at a leisurely pace. Some bring snorkels and goggles, while others rely on nothing more than a swimming cap. The group spans generations, from the young to those well into their seventies, and it’s this diversity that makes the swim so special.
Once at The Pass, they dive into the ocean. They swim back to the Surf Club no matter the conditions—whether the water is warm and calm or cold and choppy. Along the way, they often spot sea turtles and tropical fish, and from June through November, whales frequently make an appearance.
This September, the whale season has been extraordinary. Wearing our LULU wetsuit which is perfect for the in-between season, we were exploring the reef at Old Man’s and keeping an eye out for turtles, when I was lucky enough to witness a whale breach just 20 meters away.
The moment froze in time: raw, wild, and unforgettable.
SURFING
The Pass can be a dream location or a nightmare. If the surf is big, watch out, surfers come from miles around, and they are good. The take-off point is tight. My suggestion is to wait it out and watch the magic happen from the viewing platform. I'm just not interested in hassling for a wave at this point 🤣
A calmer option is one of the sand banks at Belongil, and you can take your furry friend too🐕🐾😍
SHOP
Hidden in the lively heart of Byron Bay, the Byron Bay Industrial Estate is a little-known treasure brimming with creativity and character. This isn’t just a collection of businesses — it’s a thriving community of makers, designers, and artisans, each adding their own spark to the space.
Wandering Folk
Daughters of India
Zulu and Zephyr
SPA
Tucked behind a lush hinterland backdrop, Mullumbimby rests at the foot of Mount Chincogan — a little town where time slows to the rhythm of river breezes and morning markets. With leafy streets, vintage shops, and a free-spirited energy that hums through every corner, “Mullum” is all charm and bohemian ease.
The highlight for us? A day at The Banya House — massages that melt you into the massage table, a blissful loop between hot and cold pools, and cocktails that taste even better under the dappled sun. Honestly… what could go wrong?
GOLF
For the Golf enthusiasts or golf widows. There are a few great courses around. My pick is the Tevenvalley. It’s the first Green Sir Grange Zoysia course in Australia. What makes Teven Valley unique is the turf composition. The finely bladed Sir Grange Zoysia is known as a ‘golfer’s grass’. The course features nine boutique holes that are carefully designed to challenge more experienced golfers, with strategic hazards and design features that require skilful play. Follow this with a fun lunch at Eltham Pub
BYRON NEVER DISAPPOINTS