What is Byron Bay known for?
Byron Bay is a laid-back coastal town in northern New South Wales, known for surf beaches, whale watching, music festivals and a creative, alternative lifestyle.
The town grew from a timber, dairy and whaling port into a surf and hippie destination in the 1960s and 1970s. Today it attracts backpackers, families and celebrities, and tourism is the main industry.
Popular surf spots include The Pass, Wategos Beach and Tallow Beach. Offshore, Julian Rocks is part of the Cape Byron Marine Park and is a well-known dive site with turtles, rays and grey nurse sharks.
Festivals and culture
The Byron Bay Bluesfest, held each Easter, is one of Australia's best-known music festivals. The Byron Writers Festival and markets showcasing local food and crafts also draw crowds.
The Arakwal people of the Bundjalung Nation are the Traditional Owners of the Byron area. The town is a base for exploring hinterland villages such as Bangalow and Mullumbimby, and rainforest in nearby national parks.
Byron Bay can get very busy in summer, so many visitors stay in nearby towns such as Lennox Head or Brunswick Heads.
Did You Know?
Byron Bay was once a whaling station, which operated until 1962.