We were lucky enough to stay at the Elements of Byron,which offered the perfect escape for tranquillity and relaxation. Just a five-minute walk from the beach, this spacious, light-filled retreat embodies barefoot luxury. The sprawling property boasts five-star eco-lodges, a serene adults-only pool, and a poolside bar that left us thinking, "I could get used to this."
Movement and a Seasonal Breakfast
Movement and a Seasonal Breakfast
We decided to win the morning with a walk to the iconic Byron Bay Lighthouse, where we soaked up the breathtaking views of Australia’s most easterly point, followed by a refreshing (and obligatory) dip at Wategos.
Once we had worked up an appetite, we headed over to Byron’s lively Arts and Industrial Estate, where we found Tones, a hidden gem that perfectly captures the town’s artistic vibe and warm community spirit. We think they serve the best coffee in town, which they pair with generous and creative dishes. The cold soba noodle salad provided us with the perfect Asian breakfast fix.
While in the area, you must immerse yourself in creativity at Garden Kiosk, home to Braer Studio and Bacteria Books. The unique space combines floral artistry, literary treasures, handmade ceramics and beautifully crafted workwear, offering a curated selection of vintage books and stunning floral installations.
Explore Byron’s Hinterlands
Explore Byron’s Hinterlands
We were feeling adventurous, so we took a trip to Byron’s rolling hinterlands for a leisurely lunch at Frida’s Field. This regenerative farm and eatery specialises in regionally inspired cuisine, crafted from ingredients grown in their backyard, offering diners the ultimate farm-to-table experience.
Shopping Spree or Tranquil Spa Experience
Shopping Spree or Tranquil Spa Experience
Every trip to Byron Bay should include a visit to 10 Station Street in Bangalow, a heritage town known for its charming cafes, artisan jewellers, and galleries. As self-confessed interior enthusiasts, we immersed ourselves in Colecta’s collection of rare original mid-century furniture, while our team's music lover lost themselves in Flo Records’ curated selection of vintage vinyl. There’s truly something for everyone.
As we were looking to continue the shopping spree, we headed back to Byron’s main town, where we browsed coveted brands like Deiji Studios and Nagnata.
For those seeking some late afternoon zen, The Banya Bathhouse is where you'll find it. Built upon the sun-baked bricks of a 1920s bank, this European-style bathhouse features a wood-fired sauna, steam room, magnesium pools and an extensive spa menu. A short 30 minutes away in Mullumbimby, it was the ideal place for us to rejuvenate before levitating back to the heart of Byron.
Seaside Spritz and a Dinner
Seaside Spritz and a Dinner
We started the evening with a pre-dinner cocktail at Raes perched above the infamous Wategos Beach. Built in the 1960s, this boutique hotel and restaurant’s curved arches and clam-shell lights will transport you to a Mediterranean oasis. We sipped on a spritz while we soaked up the views and watched the surfers catch their last waves before sundown.
You could stay for a fine dining experience; we decided to head back to Main Street for a plant-based feast at No Bones. Don’t miss their delicious vegan Salt & Pepper Calamari, Kung Pow Chick’n, and Carbonara, all dishes that live rent-free in our minds.
We’re already planning our next escape back.