Byron Bay's excellent beaches, laid-back feel and great weather have made it a long-time hideaway for surfers, backpackers and alternative-lifestylers. In the 1980s, a number of celebrities bought property in the area and it began to boom, though thankfully the town has not changed too much – it is just busier, and sprawling a little bit further out. A forward-thinking council moved early to ban all drive-in takeaway food outlets and all buildings more than three storeys high. Now people from all walks of life flock to Byron Bay for whale-watching, surfing, swimming and relaxing. The town centre has an array of restaurants and cafes, shops selling discount surfboards, New Age products and interesting clothing, and galleries with everything from handmade jewellery to timber furniture. Day spas, yoga centres and natural therapy parlours offer expert pampering.
Visitor Information
80 Jonson St; (02) 6680 8558
