BYRON BAY BEACHES
Byron is known for its stunning beaches, with perfect swell framed by crisp blue skies. Even in the cooler months there are many surfers in the water with barely a wetsuit in sight. And for those who don’t ride a board, simply dive in or picnic along the sand while you enjoy paradise all year-round.
Belongil Beach
Our local stretch of paradise! This un-patrolled beach is one of the few dog-friendly beaches in town. A firm favourite with Byron locals, Belongil makes for the perfect location to get away from it all. The few cafes & restaurants here have a wonderfully relaxed atmosphere, including The Belongil (perfect for breakfast, lunch or coffee) and Treehouse on Belongil (for superb pizzas and cocktails). From the town centre, hop on the solar train to North Beach Station. Belongil is situated just moments from Habitat, behind the old whaling station (the remnants of the old jetty are still visible).
Tallow Beach
Tucked beneath the headland and a short walk from Byron town, is Tallow Beach - a popular surfing spot for local short-boarders and kite boarders. A beautiful un-patrolled beach, with a dog-friendly stretch, this is a wonderful spot for a morning walk. Note that the swells are best suited to the more confident surfers, as its strong rips drag out to sea.
Wategos
Located just north west of Cape Byron and the lighthouse, Wategos Beach is one of Byron’s most standout stretches. With crystal clear waters and rolling waves, Wategos is an idyllic spot for picnics, paddles and gentle surfs. Named after the family who settled the area in the 1930’s, its manageable waves create surf conditions suitable for long-boarders and learners alike. Further down the path, at Little Wategos, you’ll find a beautiful sheltered spot, best suited to snorkelling, sunbathing and swimming.
Don’t miss the Byron Cape Walk – a popular 3.7 km loop that’s perfect for exercise with a view, or a leisurely stroll. The track meanders through rainforest and over cliff tops, where you can spot whales along the way (during migration season). Once at the top, take in the impressive and historic Byron Bay Lighthouse, built in 1901.
The Pass
Further west from Wategos is The Pass, an internationally recognised surf break and one of the Top 15 best surf beaches in Australia. These long smooth waves will inspire you to grab a board and take a lesson.
Climb up Fishermans Lookout, a large wooden structure with a viewing platform, and admire fish and dolphins, along with daily snorkelers, diving tour boats and the early morning surfers carving up the waves.
Main Beach
The closest beach to town, and the most popular, Main Beach is where you’ll meet a diverse mix of locals and visitors. A hive of activity, you’ll usually find live music and relaxed entertainment on the grassy foreshore here. The beach is patrolled all year round by local surf lifesavers from The Surf Club. After a dip, head across the road to legendary pub The Beach Hotel, for a great afternoon session.