Byron Bay is a surfers paradise but, as well as the amazing beaches, it’s stacked with excursions and diversions during your visit. Here I pick out my best 5 things to do in Byron Bay!

1. Take a Surf Lesson in Byron Bay

If Byron Bay is famous for anything, it has to be surfing. During my stay there, the sun was out and the breeze was gusty, meaning big white-tipped waves for the surfers (and sand in the teeth for sunbathers).

While the superior surf brings in some of the rockstars of the surfing world, we all have to start somewhere and Byron has some really great surfing academies. The price to get you up on a board is not as high as you’d think. This private surf lesson at Byron Bay is super popular. Alternatively, you can take part in this better value small group surf lesson – honestly, sometimes I prefer how small group activities take some of the focus off me so I get a chance to pick up the skill. But you do you.

2. Hike to Cape Byron Lighthouse

The hike to Byron Bay Lighthouse is a relatively easy 3.2km hike (45m) from the centre of town. If you want to get the best pictures, it’s stunning at sunrise or at sunset. However, if you’ve got the weather, you’ll get good shots at any time.

After you get your snaps, walk out to the very end of the peninsula – it gives a stunning perspective of the rocky foreshore and the waves.

3. Outing to Minyon Falls

Minyon Falls is a waterfall on Repentance Creek, which plunges more than 100 metres over huge cliffs. This makes a great day trip from Byron Bay (bring water and snacks) if you have your own car. The route will take you a little under an hour. Aim to visit the lookout which sits above the falls and gives you the best overall view. Note that at certain times of the year, long droughts can mean there isn’t much water volume.

If you don’t have a car, or want to visit Minyon Falls with a small group, have a look at this organised tour which features Minyon Falls.

4. Byron Bay Shopping & Fashion

Byron Bay is absolutely stocked with shops, from glamorous fashion boutiques, to regular markets, to souvenir shops, to locally made crafts and gifts. You won’t be stuck for specialist surf equipment, either! One thing I found great about Byron Bay shopping is the sheer number of independent shops and artisan options.

If you’re self-catering or just want room snacks, there’s an Aldi in the town centre, as well as a large Woolworths a few minutes walk from the main hotels.

5. Eat Out in Byron Bay

There’s no shortage of places to eat out in Byron Bay, from basic to super fancy (depending on your budget). In general, low to mid-priced venues are pretty good. Here are three that I would rate for casual eats.

Whatever is bringing you into Byron, there’s no shortage of self-guided options or fun excursions to keep you entertained. And at the end of the evening, it’s beautiful to simply sit on Main Beach or Belongil Beach and watch the surfers and dog-walkers enjoying their beautiful surroundings.