Best day trips in and around Byron Bay

Written by April Maung on September 20, 2019. Posted in Activities, Blog.

Searching for the perfect day trip while holidaying in the beautiful Byron Bay? Change up your schedule and take to exploring Byron Bay and its surrounds. Here are some perfect day trips for a more holistic experience of your escape to paradise.

NIGHTCAP NATIONAL PARK

If you need a change of scenery from stunning beaches, then make your way to Nightcap National Park. Just over an hour’s drive from The Lord Byron Hotel, Nightcap National Park surrounds you with the brilliant greenery of World Heritage-listed rainforests. Immerse yourself in nature with picnic areas, bush walks and overnight camps in the stunning national park.

For those looking to explore, there are many walks to embark on in the park; but make sure to check the ease and accessibility of the walk before starting. Prep yourself with water bottles, hats, sunscreen and appropriate clothing. From a walk to the beautiful Minyon Falls to the gorgeous Protesters Falls, this national park is every hiker’s dream.

waterfall — Image: Minyon Falls (Source: NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service)

NIMBIN

Hiking not your groove? Just over an hour’s drive from The Lord Byron Hotel and 50 mins from Nightcap National Park is Nimbin. Nimbin is Australia’s most famous Hippie and Alternative lifestyle destination. With more than enough character for a day’s worth of exploring, this quirky and colourful town is all about sustainability. Visit their Candle Factory, traverse around the streets and find the best graffiti art.

BANGALOW

If you’re looking for a rustic Byron Bay experience, then head to Bangalow. With plenty of historical buildings to explore, Bangalow is the perfect picturesque slice of historical significance. There are shops to browse in, park lands to visit and streets to wander; Bangalow is the go-to location for a relaxing day away. Farmers Markets pop up every Saturday from 8am to 11am, so rise early for a pick at the best produce. If a sleep-in is compulsory, make sure to get your caffeine hit alongside some brunch at Woods Bangalow.

NEWRYBAR

Close by and hidden in the hinterlands of Byron is Newrybar, less than 10 minutes drive from Bangalow. The cream of the sustainability crop, Newrybar is everything self-grown; they plant and harvest their own produce at Harvest Restaurant, the all-in-one foodie location.

restaurant — Image: Harvest Newrybar (Source: @newrybarmerchants)

But there’s more to Newrybar than just sustainable eating, with fine goods and fashion also on the table. Visit Newrybar Merchants for a charming artisan space with carefully curated fine goods. Saunter into DriftLab fashion boutique for everything you need to complete your breezy Byron closet.

MULLUMBIMBY

Titled Australia’s Biggest Little Town, Mullumbimby is located a short 30 minute drive from The Lord Byron Hotel. It’s offering more than just mountain views – with so many good food spots that it’ll take more than a day to taste it all. Get the whole farm experience at The Farm and its collection of small eateries. Take your pizza to the next level at Milk and Honey Mullumbimby or indulge in the best baked goods at Scratch Patisserie.

If you need a bit of a pick-me-up, then invigorate your soul and walk amongst serenity in the Crystal Castle and Shambhala Gardens. Just a half hour away from The Lord Byron Hotel), it’s everything you’d expect in a crystal wonderland. From giant crystals to murals and even crystals you can sit in, the Crystal Castle is the perfect location for the crystal-obsessed.

And if you’re not so captivated by crystals, the Shambhala Gardens are a dream to walk through. They offer guided tours for an elevated experience – or you can roam the gardens on your own. With more photo opportunities than you can dream of, this balmy walk in paradise has something for everyone.

Image: Crystal Castle and Shambhala Gardens (Source: @crystalcastlebyronbay)

LENNOX HEAD

Looking for a family friendly day out? Grab the kids and take the plunge to Lennox Head. Visit Lake Ainsworth – a tea-tree infused freshwater lake and the perfect location for a picnic with the family. If you’ve forgotten the nibbles, head over to Shelter and taste their incredible, sustainable and seasonal dishes.

Gelato (and coffee) lovers, rejoice; here’s one for the whole family. Grab some hand-made artisan gelato and aromatic, organic coffee at Lennox Gelato & Coffee Co. After enjoying your dessert, drive over to Pat Morton Lookout to finish the day off on a high.

BRUNSWICK HEADS

If you want full steam ahead with the tourist experience, then Brunswick Heads has all the experiences you need. With a variety of land and water activities to take part in, Brunswick Heads is the full package. Go ballooning, relax and breathe in the aroma of coffee with plenty of quaint cafes or attend some community events.

Plus, Brunswick Heads shows its full potential with markets on the first Saturday of the month. If you’re looking for a more mellow experience, head to Cape Byron Distillery for a distillery tour and taste their famous Brookies Gin. And if all that exploring has left you hungry, reserve a spot at Fleet for an elevated eating experience or try out Park Street Pasta Bar for something more homely.

YOUR NEXT DAY OUT

Don’t hesitate to embark on these amazing day trips for a change of scenery or a change of pace. And if you’re stuck for ideas, ask our friendly team to give you some recommendations – we’re always here to help.