Welcome to Byron Bay, the coastal town that seamlessly blends laid-back vibes with stunning natural beauty. While Byron is known (and loved) for its trendy cafes, eclectic shops, and STUNNING beaches, you don’t have to break the bank to enjoy the best it has to offer. Here’s a guide to seven free things to do in Byron Bay that will leave you with unforgettable memories without denting your wallet!
Sunrise at Cape Byron Lighthouse
Start your day with a breathtaking experience at Cape Byron Lighthouse. Perched on Australia’s easternmost point, this iconic landmark offers panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean. Witness the sunrise in all its glory, casting a warm glow over the rugged coastline. The walking path is free to access, and the early wake-up call is rewarded with a relaxing atmosphere and a front-row seat to nature’s spectacular show.
Byron Bay Markets
Immerse yourself in the local culture by exploring Byron Bay’s vibrant markets. Held on the first Sunday of each month at Main Beach, the Byron Bay Markets showcase an array of handmade crafts, unique clothing, and delicious local produce. While shopping might tempt you to spend, strolling through the stalls and soaking up the lively atmosphere comes at no cost.
Picnic at Arakwal National Park
Escape the hustle and bustle by heading to Arakwal National Park. Pack a picnic and unwind in the shade of the coastal rainforest. The park is home to several walking trails, including the Cape Byron Walking Track, where you can marvel at the native flora and fauna. Keep an eye out for the lively birdlife, and don’t forget your camera to capture the scenic beauty.
Beach Hopping
Byron Bay is renowned for its pristine beaches, and the best part is that enjoying the sun, sand, and surf won’t cost you a dime. Whether you choose Main Beach for its vibrant atmosphere, Wategos Beach for its serenity, or the more secluded Little Wategos, taking a dip in the crystal-clear waters is a must!
Street Art Tour
Byron Bay’s streets are adorned with vibrant and thought-provoking street art. Take a leisurely stroll through the town, especially around the Arts and Industry Estate, to discover colourful murals and graffiti that showcase the town’s creative spirit. It’s a visual feast that won’t cost you a cent!
Bushwalking in Nightcap National Park
For nature enthusiasts, the Nightcap National Park is a haven of lush rainforests, waterfalls, and ancient trees. While some tours may charge, you can access several trails for free. The Big Scrub Loop and Protesters Falls are two fantastic options for a day of bushwalking and immersing yourself in the serenity of the Australian wilderness.
Jarjumirr Park – Byron Bay Skate Park
If you’re seeking a more active way to spend your time, head to the Jarjumirr Park – Byron Bay Skate Park. Nestled in the Sandhills Estate, this skate park is free to use and welcomes skaters of all skill levels. Whether you’re a seasoned skateboarder or just want to watch some impressive tricks, it’s a fantastic spot to enjoy the outdoors, and features:
- 10 ft skate bowl with waterfall and granite coping.
- Ramp and bowl area for beginner to intermediate users.
- Plaza section with granite ledges.
- Climbing boulder.
- Table tennis table.
- Accessible pathways, including to the feature bowl, and seating areas.
- BBQ’s.
- Grassed areas.
- Areas for birthday parties.
Byron Bay offers a wealth of experiences for budget-conscious travelers (pun intended). From stunning natural wonders to vibrant cultural scenes, this coastal town invites you to explore its beauty without spending a cent. So, lace up your walking shoes, pack a picnic, and get ready for a budget-friendly adventure in Byron Bay!
It may have been crowned Australia’s most expensive destination (thanks Hemsworth brothers and Splendour in the Grass) but visiting Byron Bay doesn’t have to break the bank. You can still soak up those good vibes and get that sun-kissed glow on the cheap!
7 Free Things To Do In Byron Bay
(ORIGINAL POST)
1. Wander the markets
Byron has some of the funkiest crafts and tastiest produce in the Northern Rivers area, and where better to find these than a local market?
There are heaps to choose from, depending on whether you want to try artisan goods or find a pair of handmade earrings.
Check out the Byron Community Market, held on the first Sunday of every month, for artwork, hand-made jewellery, massages and music.
There’s also the Artisan Market, held every Saturday night during spring and summer, and the Farmers Market, held every Thursday morning, for delicious local food and homemade goodies.
Byron Community Market
First Sunday of every month, 8am-3pm
Butler Street Reserve
Artisan Market
Every Saturday from October to Easter, 4pm-9pm
Railway Park, Jonson Street
Byron Bay Farmers Market
Thursday morning, 8-11 am
Butler Street Reserve
2. Visit the lighthouse
Located on the most easterly point of Australia, if you make it here for sunrise, you’ll be one of the first people in the country to see the sun! Cool huh?
Even if you can’t bring yourself to make it there that early, there is still tons to do at any time of day.
Wander the Cape Byron Loop Walk, a 3.7km stretch of walking tracks, boardwalks and beach paths with postcard-worthy views, or stay at the top and watch for whales.
3. Take the plunge at Minyon Falls
With great walks, picnic spots and BBQ facilities, this is the perfect day trip from Byron. The scenery here is almost prehistoric, and there are some of the best views the area has to offer.
Take the track through Nightcap National Park and lush the rainforest to reach the falls themselves, cascading 100 metres over the jagged cliffs.
You can climb almost to the top of the falls, and, if you aren’t scared of heights, enjoy watching the water plunge down into the gorge below!
4. Catch some free music
Famous for it’s great music festivals and local artists, Byron is one of the best spots to listen to home-grown Aussie music. You don’t need to shell out hundreds for a festival ticket either, most of the pubs in town have free live music each night.
The Rails Hotel is a good place to start, with a funky beer garden and free live music every night of the week.
Byron Bay Brewery and Buddha Bar also has some great bands on most nights, and local favourite the Great Northern Hotel is another hot spot. You can also call into the Beach Hotel for some tunes overlooking the ocean – you’re in Byron Bay after all!
The Rails
86 Johnson Street, Byron Bay
Mon-Sat 10am-12am, Suny 12pm-12am
Byron Bay Brewery and Buddha Bar
1 Skinners Shoot Road, Byron Bay
Tues 5pm-late, Wed-Sun 12pm-late
Great Northern Hotel
35 – 43 Jonson Street, Byron Bay
Mon-Sat 10am-3am, Sun 12pm-3am
5. Hit up the beaches
There are plenty of stunning spots around Byron Bay to choose from, so grab your swimmers, towel and get moving!
Head to Clarkes Beach for windsurfing, body-boarding and paragliding or Wategos Beach for more sheltered swimming.
There’s also White Beach, which is a real hidden gem. You’ll need to drive then walk 15 minutes to reach this spot, but it’s worth it for the secluded paradise that awaits!
6. Get your art fix
Byron is home to some of Australia’s funkiest makers and creators, so wandering the free galleries around the town is a great way to spend a day.
The Lone Goat Gallery has regular exhibitions from local visual artists, and Jules Hunt Studio Gallery is a great place to purchase original work and even speak to the artist herself!
Lone Goat Gallery
28 Lawson Street, Byron Bay
Mon-Fri 10am-4pm, Sat 10am-12pm
Jules Hunt Studio Gallery
2/10 Brigantine Street, Byron Bay
Mon-Sat, 9am – 5pm
7. Watch the sunrise or sunset
Sure, you can get these on any holiday, but there’s something about watching the sunset and rise over the Byron Bay water that’s especially magical.
Whether you’re catching the view from the top of Cape Byron, or from the comfort of the sand on Main Beach, this is the perfect start or end to the day.
So go on, grab a drink and get toasting, you’re not in Byron Bay every day!