Ten reasons to visit Byron Bay in Winter
It’s a closely guarded local’s secret that Byron Bay is at its dazzling best in Winter. The ocean is warm, days are clear and sunny and the crowds have well and truly disappeared. Luckily, we are prepared to share our paradise - check out some of the reasons why Winter really is the perfect time to stay in the Bay!
1. Whales
You may not be the only visitors to Byron - around 35,000 whales travel up the east coast of Australia every Winter, visiting Byron Bay’s warm, calm waters between May and October. There are plenty of viewing opportunities right in town - check out the best places to spot them here.
2. Sunshine
There is no better reason to take a Winter holiday than catching some sun! With very little rain and clear blue skies in Byron during the Winter months, there is no better time to head outside. Spend sunny days exploring the beach, verdant hinterland or getting active in the great outdoors.
3. (Almost) empty beaches
Other than a handful of locals, you won’t need to share the world’s most beautiful beaches with anyone in Winter. Take an early morning walk, spot some resident dolphins, catch a quiet wave or two. Bliss!
4. Byron Writer’s Festival
Leading writers and thinkers from across Australia and the globe come to the festival to share stories, ideas and the power of words with audiences, through ticketed events and workshops.
Held in Bangalow on the first weekend of August each year, the festival has become an internationally renowned event since its inception in 2005.
5. World class dining
With incredible local fresh produce, Byron Bay is rapidly becoming known as a foodie hotspot, and there is no better time to snag a coveted table than the quiet Winter months. Explore our guide to the hottest new dining experiences in Byron here.
6. Boutique shopping
Whilst there is plenty of brilliant shopping to be done in Byron town, we love the Arts and Industry precinct for a distinctly Byron vibe. Just a few minutes drive out of town (or catch the world’s first solar train), spend a Winter’s day visiting the Habitat precinct and flagships stores of Byron-born fashion and homewares brands.
7. Blissful wellness experiences
A focus on health and wellbeing is intricately woven into daily life in Byron Bay, and Winter is the perfect time to slow down and nourish yourself. Salute the sun from your yoga mat, experience blissful massage or partake in any number of alternative therapies. Find our guides to the best experiences here.
8. Iconic Lighthouse walk
One of Byron’s most iconic experiences, a walk up to the lighthouse is a must do on your holiday itinerary. Cooler, clear days and the passing parade of whales and dolphins in Winter makes the walk unmissable!
9. Hidden waterfalls
For a water based experience when it’s too cold for the beach, why not visit one of the many stunning waterfalls in the region? The largest is Minyon Falls - about 35 minutes from Byron via a pretty scenic rainforest drive. On the way back to town, pop into Killen Falls, or for those wanting to venture a little further, Protestor’s Falls is an easy walk through ancient World Heritage listed rainforest.
10. Charming Hinterland villages
Take a short drive out of town and you will discover the breathtaking scenery of the Byron Hinterland. Charming villages, rolling hills, fabulous dining experiences, ancient rainforests and more await. Check out our guide here.