Is Byron Bay worth visiting? How to spend an amazing 2 days

So, you’re planning the trip of a lifetime to Australia and trying to figure out what’s a must-see. The question is — is Byron Bay worth visiting?

To answer the question ‘is Byron Bay worth visiting?’, this post will cover how to spend 2 amazing days in this bohemian paradise. Byron Bay, a coastal town in New South Wales, Australia, is located just over 750KM from Sydney. It has gained a reputation as a must-visit spot. With its gorgeous beaches, chilled-out vibes, and buzzing cultural scene, it’s got all the ingredients for an epic getaway. But is it really worth the hype? Let’s break down what makes Byron so special and how you can have an awesome two days soaking up the magic of this bohemian paradise.

Byron Bay is likely going to be one of your next stops after visiting Sydney. While Sydney has so much to offer (check out all the amazing things here: Things to do in Sydney), Byron Bay will offer the anthesis of this – ideal to balance each other out.

Is Byron Bay worth visiting? Why visit?

Firstly, this is where Chris Hemsworth lives. So basically, end of blog post. Is Byron Bay worth visiting? Well, Chris says it is, so it is.

Jokes aside, Byron Bay should absolutely be on your East Coast Australia itinerary.

For the perfect 3-week itinerary for Australia’s East coast, take a look at this post:

Sydney to Cairns – 3 week trip to see the best of the East Coast

A lot of people will tell you that Byron Bay isn’t what it used to be, and that it’s charm has lessen slightly over the years. Perhaps they will even offer other alternatives for you to visit. However, there is still something magical about this place. It remains the perfect place to unwind and chill. As well as having good choices of places to stay, eat and relax. So lets dive into what makes it so special, and how you can spend an amazing 2 days in Byron Bay.

How to spend an amazing 2 days in Byron Bay

This two day itinerary will give you a chance to explore the best of what this town has to offer. Even if you don’t have a huge amount of time to spend travelling the East Coast, it is still worth heading to for a couple of days.

Day 1

Walk the Cape Byron Track

This beautiful coastal walk is a must-do when you are visiting Byron Bay. You pick up the path next to Main Beach, and it meanders along the sea for approximately 3.7KM, ending at Byron Bay Lighthouse. Along the way you will be treated to stunning views, the epitome of the Australian coast line. If you are lucky you might spot dolphins, and even whales, as you walk along. A perfect way to spend a couple of hours in Byron Bay.

Byron Bay Lighthouse

If you are a morning person, start your day by heading to watch sunrise at Byron Bay lighthouse. This is the most easterly point of mainland Australia, so the views are pretty stunning. If not, make sure to visit at the end of your walk along the Cape Byron Track.

Head to Wategos Beach or the Pass Beach

Both these beaches are easily accessible from the Cape Byron Track so, either on your way to the lighthouse or the way back, stop off and spend some time in one, or both, beaches to relax.

Wategos beach, one of Byron’s most beautiful beaches, is renowned for its relaxed atmosphere and for being the prettiest in the area. It is really sheltered, so perfect for spending some time just chilling out.

The Pass is one of the best areas for surfing, so if you want to sit back and watch one of the most classic Byron scenes – this is where to go. While you are there check out Fisherman’s Lookout. From the top of these stairs you get panoramic views of the surrounding ocean.

Bayleaf Cafe

Depending on how early you started your day, head to Bayleaf Cafe for either brunch or lunch. It is said to serve the best coffee in Byron, and has a menu that highlights the best of Australian ingredients. It is relaxed and vibrant, with a really cool interior. Perfect for sipping a chai (one of their specialities), while watching the world go by.

Spend the evening in the Northern

A Byron Bay institution! The Northern Pub, more colloquially known as the ‘Piano Bar’ is a must visit when in Byron Bay. Two pianos are set up in the middle of the room. You write down the songs you want the, incredibly talented, pianists to play and they pick them at random from the bowl and perform whatever is pulled out. The talent that they have to play all these songs on request is amazing. It is such a great atmosphere, singing and dancing with strangers in a bar.

Day 2

Get out on the water

Start your day with one of two options – both of which involve the ocean. If you want to really live the Byron Bay dream, then there is no where better to try surfing. From beginners to pro surfing, there is something for everyone. The Pass is Byron’s most famous surf spot, perfect for intermediate and advanced surfers. Beginners can still enjoy the smaller waves closer to shore. Even if you don’t want to surf, it is still worth heading down there to watch the pros in action!

To get you started, there are plenty of places that offer half day lessons, take a look at these incredible options.

Alternatively, if you don’t feel surfing is your thing, then kayaking with dolphins is one of the most amazing options. A 2.5 hour kayaking session gives you the chance to get up close and personal with friendly bottlenose dolphins and discover how inquisitive they can be.

Have lunch at the Treehouse

This adorable little restaurant is about a 20 minute walk from Main Beach, located opposite Belongil Beach. It is a relaxed, seaside restaurant which is known for its woodfired pizza. Sit back and enjoy the outdoor vibe with the lovely decor.

Relax on Belongil Beach

After lunch you are perfectly placed to spend your final afternoon chilling on Belongil Beach. It is approximately 2.5KM long, and a lot quieter than some of the other beaches. Making it a wonderful place to just soak up the beautiful views. The light over the beach as the sun sets is quite special. The perfect end to your 2 days in Byron Bay.

Where to stay in Byron Bay

There are plenty of accommodation options in Byron Bay to suit every travellers need. And if you are still thinking ‘is Byron Bay worth visiting?’ then some of these accommodation options might help you change your mind!

To summarise? Is Byron Bay worth visiting?

Is Byron Bay worth visiting? In short yes!

Byron Bay is totally famous for its awesome beaches, laid-back vibe, and quirky charm, making it a must-check-out spot on the East Coast. Sure, some people might say it is not as chill as it used to be, but it’s still a fantastic place to kick back, catch some waves, and soak in that coastal beauty.

Plus, you can absolutely see the best that this place has to offer in just 2 days, meaning there is no reason not to add it to your East Coast Australia itinerary.

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