Perhaps best known today for being the home of the Hemsworth brothers, Byron Bay is a bohemian beach town with an alluring tapestry of beautiful people (Zac Efron also owns a holiday home here).
Occupying the most easterly point of Australia, Byron Bay has long been loved for its eclectic mix of beach, hinterland and bustling small-town ambience. With several iconic surf beaches that draw surfers and sunseekers in from around the world, the town’s Cheer Up, Slow Down, Chill Out motto is a nod to the easy-going boho lifestyle that this region is known for.
Here, a laid-back village vibe, vibrant foodie scene and eclectic festival and arts culture meets a dramatic coastline, crashing surf swells and tropical surrounds – making Byron Bay a must for anyone who wants to experience the town’s je ne sais quoi. Insta-famous thanks to its pastel palette, Byron Bay is one of Australia’s most talked-about (and visited) beachside towns, and rightfully so. From ocean-front eateries to hinterland escapes, these are some of Byron’s best places to stay, eat, drink, shop and spa.
STAY
Blackbird Byron
At the top of a winding dirt track, Blackbird Byron is thirty minutes from the hustle and bustle of Byron, and has sweeping views of the hinterland, with the swell of the Pacific Ocean glistening in the distance. An adults-only escape, it has an al fresco mineral pool flanked by pretty loungers and parasols, and an area where guests are served a cooked or continental breakfast (both excellent options). There are three thoughtfully constructed pavilions, each of which sit atop a lofty cliff, and are built from a blend of minimalist concrete panels, whitewashed plywood and patterned tiles. Sleeping quarters are layered with cosy linens and sliding doors that lead to a patio, which offers guest the perfect spot for soaking up the sights and sounds of the Byron bush.
Elements of Byron
Image credit: Jeff Julia
Across 50 acres of absolute beachfront, Elements of Byron is barefoot luxury at its finest. The property has 202 villas, among them 99 luxurious two-bedroom rainforest villas with stand-alone baths, beachy décor, and the cozy charm of home (but better). Meandering pathways wind their way through the expansive 20-hectare rainforest, which provide a tranquil escape from the lively town centre. Sustainability lies at the forefront of Elements’ ethos; the resort’s passive-solar and water-sensitive design earned it the prestigious Australian Institute of Architects sustainability award in 2017. There’s also an adult-only pool, an excellent on-site restaurant serving up locally sourced food (the butter breadcrumbed oysters are delicious) and poolside cabanas, from which it would be rude not to enjoy an afternoon tipple or two.
Hotel Marvell
Hotel Marvell Byron Bay HGA
Touted as Byron Bay’s only five-star hotel, Hotel Marvell sits smack bang in the centre of town, close to a bevy of boutiques, cafes, and bookstores. A short walk to Main Beach, its central locale means that guests can enjoy the fruits of Byron on foot. There’s a rooftop pool and bar, too, which serves cocktails a-plenty, a nice selection of bar snacks, and there’s even a DJ on Friday and Saturday nights if you fancy getting your dancing shoes on. The 16 rooms are home to a stylish blend of neutral linens, blonde timber and thoughtful touches, and were designed by architect and Byron native, Harley Graham.
EAT + DRINK
Balcony Bar & Oyster Co.
The Balcony Bar & Oyster Co. is a dining destination beloved by locals for its chic interiors, relaxed atmosphere and scenic views. Situated in a prime location a stone’s throw from the beach, the best seats in the house are the sprawling sofas on the balcony, which are perfect for people watching. Their seafood platter and crab linguine are both excellent, and you can’t go wrong with a classic margarita.
Raes at Wategos
A fine-dining experience in one of Byron Bay’s most picturesque spots, the dining room at Rae’s is perched above Wategos Beach, and enjoys unrivalled ocean views. The menu features a blend of contemporary Australian cuisine with Mediterranean influences, focusing on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Try the Australian Bay Lobster if you’re in the mood for a truly decadent treat, a dish rivalled only by the enticing lull of the nearby crashing waves.
Ciao Mate
A neighbourhood haunt in nearby Bangalow, Ciao Mate is more than worth the 20-minute drive from the centre of Byron. Known and loved for its warm hospitality and rustic decor, this cosy Italian restaurant serves classic Italian dishes made from fresh, locally sourced ingredients and has an impressive wine list. The pasta alla vodka is to die for, and the doughy pizzas are served piping hot, just like the Italians intended. A pretty spot perfect for a memorable dinner, it’s one of the area’s best-kept secrets.
Where To Shop
Spell
One of Australia’s most recognisable fashion brands, Spell’s flagship store sits on the corner of a pretty, tree-lined street, a short walk from the beach. A far cry from Spell’s humble beginnings – the sisters who founded the brand used to sell their wares at Byron Bay markets – the shop’s interiors are a mix of new and old, natural and manmade, and the striking space embodies the carefree, gypsy character that Spell is known and loved for. Come for the floaty, floral numbers that you’ll find in the wardrobes of women around the world.
Island Luxe
Born from a love of finding old objects characterised by their imperfections and fabrics that stand the test of time, Island Luxe is a one-stop shop for all things Byron chic. Selling handcrafted textiles, linen, art, furniture, lamps and travel accessories, you’ll also find a range of high-end clothing, shoes and jewellery. Achingly hip and beautifully styled, the shop is stocked with one-of-a-kind pieces created by local and international designers, as well as antiques sourced from around the world.
Where To Spa
Osprey at Elements of Byron
The on-site spa at Elements of Byron is a destination in and of itself. Set within the hotel’s lush surroundings, the menu features treatments including a Lime Caviar Glow and a De-Stress Ritual. If you want to really indulge, try their one-hour-45-minute long Sanctuary Ritual – it includes a grounding foot bath, a frangipani and vanilla cream massage and infusion, and a facial – it’s guaranteed to have you floating out of the spa in no time at all. The only drawback? You’ll never want to leave.
The Banya
A short drive from Byron in nearby Mullumbimby, The Banya is a trendy new bathing and dining experience that features a traditional European-style bathhouse with two large hot mineral pools, a rooftop sundeck, wood-fired sauna, a steam room and a cold plunge. There are also tranquil gardens and comfortable lounging areas which are perfect for unwinding. After a treatment or two, stay on for a long lunch or enjoy a few drinks on the rooftop. The on-site bar and dining focus on healthy offerings with a delicious twist – the Chinny Charge smoothie and green breaky salad are particularly tasty.
Lead image credit: Elements of Byron By Toby Lord
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