How to do Byron Bay on a budget
Think Byron might be out of your budget? Think again with these savvy suggestions.
- July 2021
Byron Bay’s popularity has gone through the roof and the recent influx of celebrities can make it feel less than budget-friendly. But it’s still easy to have a good time without dropping major coin if you know how. Visiting outside of major holidays or festivals will make things more affordable, as will choosing hostels over boutique yoga retreats. And, it’s one of the most naturally beautiful places in the country. It doesn’t cost a cent to take in a spectacular sunrise, hike a rainforest or dive into the crystal clear waters at Main Beach. Here’s how to have a Byron break without breaking the bank.
Walk the lighthouse track
Walking the Cape Byron Lighthouse Track is a signature Byron experience with views worth a million. Get there for sunrise, when the views really knock your socks off. Then hit the track, a 3.7km coastal walk that loops through boardwalks, bush tracks and beaches. There are a bunch of lookouts along the way. Stop for an early-morning coffee at The Pass Café and sit on beach to drink it. (FYI you can take a volunteer-run tour of the lighthouse for a gold coin donation.)
Explore the hinterland
Tear yourself away from Byron’s beautiful beaches and explore the hinterland. This emerald-green swathe of country is an epic wonderland of birdlife, sub-tropical rainforests with rockpools and waterfalls, rolling hills and sensational views. Take a daytrip to check out the scenery, the quirky villages and the sensational local produce. Hike to the summit of Wollumbin Mount Warning or the top of Minyon Falls. Grab a few things for a picnic then head to the tables at Rocky Dam.
Hang out at the Market
If you’re on a budget, hanging out at Byron’s famous community market is a perfect way to spend a day. This bustling market is bursting with atmosphere – there’s live entertainment, artisan wares, and a lively community spirit. Grab yourself a snack or an armful of local produce to feast on later – who needs expensive restaurants, anyway?! The market is usually held on the first Sunday of the month. There’s also a quarterly beachside market, and on Saturday nights over the summer months, a twilight market.
Tour the Farm
The Farm, just outside Byron is a foodie hotspot, famous for its gorgeous cafe situated right within its working farm. If the budget doesn’t stretch to an epic lunch, a good alternative is the free self-guided tour. You’ll see the crops they grow, the beehives and all the farm animals. Just pick up a map at the entrance and go exploring. If you visit in the morning, you’re welcome to join the farmers as they head out to feed the pigs (a great activity if you’re travelling with the kids).
Get to the galleries
It’s no surprise that creative Byron is home to many an artist, so go on a gallery crawl to check out the local scene. There are plenty of small galleries to explore but Lone Goat Gallery is Byron’s big one. You’ll find it within the Byron Bay Library building, where it hosts exhibitions, artists talks and workshops. The gallery focuses on artists of the Northern Rivers region, but also showcases national and international works. Photography lovers should head to award-winning ocean photographer Craig Parry’s gallery on Jonson Street.