The insider’s guide to Bangalow
A charming village located just over 15km from central Byron Bay, Bangalow is the quintessential hinterland town. Most of the town’s attractions are concentrated on the pretty Main Street, full of traditional architectural gems. Take a drive and spend a few hours exploring one of our favourite towns in the Byron Bay region.
What to do
Start with a little retail therapy - for a small town, Bangalow has an impressive range of local and artisan retailers. Some of our favourites include Our Corner Store - a curated collection of quality, timeless homewares and everyday goods, and Assembly Label for stylish, classic clothing. Bisque Traders, just behind Main Street, stocks one of a kind furniture and homewares, sourced from around the globe.
Don’t miss a visit to Ninbella, a treasure trove of First Nations artworks, rugs and collectibles showcasing indigenous artists from the local area and further afield.
Where to eat
A recent influx of innovative eateries has put this formerly sleepy town well and truly on the culinary world stage. Ciao Mate is a hatted Italian restaurant churning out truly delicious wood fired pizza, showcasing the region’s incredible fresh produce.
A few steps further down the street is moody newcomer You Beauty - think share plates of house made goodies making the most of local and seasonal fare.
Pop around the corner and pull up a seat in the sunny courtyard of Woods, sister cafe to Byron boho favourite Folk. Excellent coffee and wholesome breakfast and lunch favourites will fuel you before heading back to the beach.
Visit on a Saturday morning and enjoy the buzz of the local farmer’s market. Pack up a picnic of great bread, cheese, fruit, vegetable and deli goods, and head to the nearby Bangalow parklands for a picnic by the weir.
Special events
The monthly Bangalow craft market, held at the Showgrounds on the 4th Sunday of each month is the perfect place to experience the local Bangalow community in action. Full of unique fashion, crafts, food, music and art, it’s definitely one to plan a visit around.
For something a little different, the annual Billycart Derby is always a fun and action packed day! Held in May, the Main Street is closed to traffic to make way for vehicles of the homemade variety racing to the finish line.
If you happen to be in town during September, the annual Sample Food Festival is also worth penciling in to the calendar. Showcasing the region’s best produce and talented chefs, it is the perfect way to graze your way through the best restaurants of the region in the spring sunshine.