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Star Stories

Outdoor education with the Wyper family

Pioneers, educators and wildlings, making the most of life outdoors.

The Wypers: Outdoor Education

Photographer takes a road trip around NZ

A photographer heads out on a road trip to find the final perfect shot.

Amber: The perfect shot

Demi: Horizon Seeker

A road trip through New Zealand’s stunning landscapes sparks creativity, connection, and a deep sense of freedom.

RV road trip around the North Island

A father slows down time to soak up the feel of freedom with his sons, just like he did with his own Dad.

John: Like father, like son

Star Story: Pursue Your Dreams

A photographer couple return to New Zealand, a place that had captured their hearts five years ago.

Carina & Hannes: Pursue Your Dreams

Star Story: Slowing Down with Nature

Couple explores the South Island and they learn about the importance of the natural world around them.

Hannah & Luke: Slowing Down with Nature

Star Story: Birthday Present

Every year the question comes back around of what do you want for your birthday? We decided to travel New Zealand's South Island.

Dana: Birthday Present

Retired couple take a surfing road trip

A retired couple discover new things together in the outdoors.

Something new

Star Story: First times

Friends travel to New Zealand as their first trip after COVID. The trip ends in a surprise proposal.

Ben, Angelina & Noemi: First Times

A solo traveller finds peace on an NZ road trip

One man travels solo on a great New Zealand road trip to find peace.

Alex: Finding peace

Discover Australia

Star Benefits

Star Story: Matt and Olivia Reconnected

A decision to explore Australia together, a first-time experience filled with the promise of wildlife, natural wonders, and life on the road.

Olivia: Reconnected

Reconnect with nature on an Australian family road trip

An adventure seeking explorer shares his love of the outdoors with his family.

Henry: The Explorer

Joost & Willemijn: Slowing Down

An adventurous couple embrace the unknown and take their babies on a road trip across Australia. 

annie-steve-reconnection

A couple's journey through Australia rekindles their connection and spirit of adventure.

Annie & Steve: Reconnection

The Perfect One Week Southwest Road Trip 

A breath of fresh air to escape the city, get into the forest, and explore the coastline

Evan: The Perfect One Week Southwest Road Trip 

Larissa & Bart: Adventure Through Southwest Australia 

We explore Southwest Australia's stunning landscapes and beaches.

lisa-adventure-in-western-australia

From the moment we set off from Darwin, heading all the way to Perth, we knew we were in for something extraordinary. 

Lisa: Adventure in Western Australia

Surfing the waves on an Australian road trip

Always in search of the ultimate freedom, a freediver explores the Australian coastlines.

Olly: The Waterman

Famous for its spectacular beaches, relaxed vibes, and as the home of the Hemsworths, Byron Bay is a gorgeous coastal paradise along Australia’s popular East Coast road trip route. While once a simple working-class seaside town, Byron Bay today is an upmarket destination, offering a laidback lifestyle, thriving arts and wellness scenes, and a diverse range of activities.  

Come for the hype, stay for the exhilarating outdoor adventures, indulgent culinary fare, and appealing natural wonders. Experience the best of ‘the Bay’ with our handy guide to the top 20 things to do in Byron Bay on your Australian motorhome journey. 

## Discover central Byron Bay 

### 1. Iconic Cape Byron Lighthouse 

The town's most iconic landmark, the Cape Byron Lighthouse is mainland Australia’s most easterly point and a must-do when you visit Byron Bay. Reach the lighthouse on the 3.7-kilometre looped [Cape Byron walking track](https://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/things-to-do/walking-tracks/cape-byron-walking-track). From June to November, look for passing whales (and dolphins year-round) as you admire the panoramic views. To discover the lighthouse’s history, take a guided sunrise tour.  

**Time:** 2 hours 

**Parking:** Limited free parking 

 ![Cape Byron.jpeg](https://storage.googleapis.com/jucy-turkana-prod-6fa3ff.appspot.com/Image/Cape_Byron_528a9e271c/Cape_Byron_528a9e271c.jpeg) 

### 2. Unwind on Wategos Beach 

[Wategos Beach](https://byronbay.com/wategos-beach-byron-bay/) offers a gorgeous crescent-shaped stretch of sand perfect for swimming, surfing (especially beginners), and saying “This is the life”. It’s only two kilometres from central Byron Bay, yet it feels like another world, thanks to the lush Cape Byron State Park backdrop and frequent dolphin visitors frolicking in the waves. Steps at the eastern end of Wategos Beach lead to Cape Byron Lighthouse if you want to combine attractions.  

**Time:** 1-4 hours 

**Parking:** Limited paid parking to 4 hours; spots fill quickly 

 ![Wategos Beach.jpeg](https://storage.googleapis.com/jucy-turkana-prod-6fa3ff.appspot.com/Image/Wategos_Beach_05048fc7f5/Wategos_Beach_05048fc7f5.jpeg) 

### 3. Take a guided Aboriginal tour around Byron 

For an insightful exploration connecting modern-day Byron to its Aboriginal roots, join Arakwal Bundjalung elder Delta Kay on her fascinating [Walgun Tour](https://explorebyronbay.rezdy.com/521523/walgun-tour-with-delta-kay). Revel in Delta’s Dreamtime stories about Nguthungulli (Julian Rocks), discover a 1,000-year-old midden, and sample seasonal bush tucker treats.  

**Time:** 90 minutes 

**Parking:** Paid parking up to 4 hours, leave time pre-tour to wait for a space  

 ![cape-byron-tours-a.jpg](https://storage.googleapis.com/jucy-turkana-prod-6fa3ff.appspot.com/Image/cape_byron_tours_a_743d7f1567/cape_byron_tours_a_743d7f1567.jpg) 

### 4. Adventure in Arakwal National Park 

Immediately south of Cape Byron, [Arakwal National Park](https://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/visit-a-park/parks/arakwal-national-park) is a pristine wonderland jointly managed by the local [Arakwal Aboriginal community](http://arakwal.com.au/category/experience-our-culture/programs-activities/) and New South Wales Park Service. The secluded [Tallow Beach](https://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/things-to-do/surfing-spots/tallow-beach-activity) is a highlight, as is the easy Tallow Beach and Arakwal National Park Trail (2 hours) and moderate Tallow Beach Walk (1 hour). As you explore, watch for an abundance of wildlife, especially birds. 

**Time:** 2-3 hours  

**Parking:** Free at the trailheads  


### 5. Snorkel shipwrecks on Belongil Beach 

If you’re keen to escape Byron’s crowded [Main Beach](https://byronbay.com/main-beach-byron-bay/) or are travelling with your dog (yes, they’re permitted in some Star RV motorhomes when pre-booked), travel a little further north to the 2.5-kilometre [Belongil Beach](https://www.visitnsw.com/destinations/north-coast/byron-bay-area/byron-bay/attractions/belongil-beach). Bring your snorkel if you visit during low tide to explore the remains of the SS Wollongbar shipwreck. Note, the area north of Belongil Creek is clothing optional.  

**Time:** 1-2 hours 

**Parking:** Paid with a 4-hour limit  

 ![Shipwreck Near Byron Bay.jpeg](https://storage.googleapis.com/jucy-turkana-prod-6fa3ff.appspot.com/Image/Shipwreck_Near_Byron_Bay_4a928dca8c/Shipwreck_Near_Byron_Bay_4a928dca8c.jpeg) 

### 6. Underwater magic awaits at Julian Rocks Nguthungulli Nature Reserve  

Only 2.5 kilometres off the coast, the incredible underwater world of [Julian Rocks Nguthungulli Nature Reserve](https://byronbay.com/julian-rocks/) is one of Australia’s best dive and snorkel spots. A protected sanctuary for over 1,000 marine species, including turtles, rays, dolphins, and whales. Book a [boat tour](https://www.byronbaydivecentre.com.au/dive-sites/) to see the best of this vibrant marine reserve and discover how sacred Nguthungulli is to the Arakwal People. 

**Time:** 2-3 hours  

**Parking:** Free street parking close to boat tour operators  


### 7. Witness whales up-close 

One of Byron Bay’s best winter/spring activities is spying the majestic humpback whales passing the ‘humpback highway’, from Antarctica to Queensland. While you can spot some of the 25,000 migratory humpbacks from Cape Byron Lighthouse, seeing them close is both a thrill and a privilege. From June to November, catch them on a [boat tour with a marine biologist](https://www.byronbaywhalewatching.com.au/whale-watching-tours/) or an exhilarating [whale-watching sea kayaking adventure](https://goseakayakbyronbay.com.au/about/whale-watching/). 

**Time:** 2-3 hours  

**Parking:** Free street parking to 4 hours near tour operator HQs 

 ![Whale Tail Byron Bay.jpeg](https://storage.googleapis.com/jucy-turkana-prod-6fa3ff.appspot.com/Image/Whale_Tail_Byron_Bay_5d1a4cb7f5/Whale_Tail_Byron_Bay_5d1a4cb7f5.jpeg) 

### 8. Kayaking with Dolphins 

While whale watching is seasonal, Byron Shire has 300+ resident bottlenose dolphins who appear year-round along its shores. It’s not only playful dolphins you’ll likely encounter on a [guided sea kayaking adventure](https://www.capebyronkayaks.com/about/kayak-with-the-dolphins/), but turtles and rays, too!  

**Time:** 2-3 hours  

**Parking:** Free street parking for four hours  


### 9. Eat up, Byron style 

Byron Bay is not a town to visit on a diet; there are too many [fabulous dining spots](https://byronbay.com/wine-and-dine/) to tempt you! From the region’s [tastiest tacos](https://www.chihuahuabyronbay.com.au/menu) to the [Surf House’s rooftop bar's cheap pizzas](https://thesurfhouse.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/ROOFTOP-BAR-MENU_FEB24.pdf), and the upmarket [Light Years](https://www.lightyearsasiandiner.com.au/byron-bay), [Beach](https://beachbyronbay.com.au/menu/#menu-section), and chic [Raes Dining Room](https://raes.com.au/diningroom/) restaurants, there’s something tasty for every budget. Vegans will love the mind-blowing fare at [No Bones](https://nobones.co/). 

**Time:** 1-3 hours 

**Parking:** Varies per eatery 

 ![No-Bones-3775.jpg](https://storage.googleapis.com/jucy-turkana-prod-6fa3ff.appspot.com/Image/No_Bones_3775_5dff0bc6fb/No_Bones_3775_5dff0bc6fb.jpg) 

### 10. Connect to your food at The Farm 

For a fun-filled visit to meet collective farmers, head to [The Farm](https://thefarm.com.au), only 10 minutes from central Byron. Take [a guided tour](https://thefarm.com.au/farm-tours) to experience their ‘Grow, Feed, Educate’ motto firsthand and learn of their sustainable and ethical farming practices. Finish with a delectable farm-to-table meal at the award-winning [Three Blue Ducks](https://www.threeblueducks.com/byron/#our-offering). You can also pre-order picnic supplies fresh from The Farm.  

**Time:** 2-3 hours 

**Parking:** Ample free parking 

 ![Sheep at The Farm.png](https://storage.googleapis.com/jucy-turkana-prod-6fa3ff.appspot.com/Image/Sheep_at_The_Farm_df4a48a237/Sheep_at_The_Farm_df4a48a237.png) 

### 11. Get pampered 

Famous for its thriving wellness scene, Byron Bay has dozens of pampering day spas. For one of the best massages in town, head to [Comma](https://commaspaces.com/pages/byron). For a rejuvenating facial, [Little Company](https://littlecompany.com.au/pages/byron-bay) wows, and Sulis Lifestyle Salon and Spa has all your hair needs covered. Out of town in quaint [Mullumbimby](https://byronbay.com/mullumbimby/), [Banya](https://thebanya.com.au/) and [Kiva Spa](https://thekivaspa.com/bathhouse/) have relaxing hot pools, a sauna, cold plunge, and more. 

**Time:** 1-4 hours 

**Parking:** Varies, both metered and free available 


### 12. Shop ‘til you drop 

Byron Bay and [fashion shopping](https://www.visitbyronbay.com/explore/shopping/) go together like road trips and sing-along playlists. The town's trendy independent boutiques and up-and-coming designers allow you to wear your memories of your Byron stay. Check out the town's beloved stores, like Rowie the Label, Spell, St Agni, and Nagnata. The [Jonson Lane Precinct](https://jonsonlane.com.au/) is a fab new laneway for local creatives. Further out of town, the Arts and Industrial Estate, Habitat, and Tigmi Trading sell have-to-have clothing and homeware. 

**Time:** 1-3 hours 

**Parking:** Metered parking in central Byron; free elsewhere 

 ![Shopping in Byron Bay.jpg](https://storage.googleapis.com/jucy-turkana-prod-6fa3ff.appspot.com/Image/Shopping_in_Byron_Bay_acff622ba1/Shopping_in_Byron_Bay_acff622ba1.jpg) 

### 13. Sip a Byron Bay tipple 

The creativity experienced in Byron Bay extends beyond arts, crafts, and culinary fare; the drinks are innovative, too! Take a brewery tour at [Stone and Wood](https://stoneandwood.com.au/pages/byron-bay) to sample five of its 31 beers. For gin and whiskey lovers, visit [Cape Byron Distillery](https://capebyrondistillery.com/pages/visit-our-byron-distillery); their popular Rainforest and Gin Tasting Tour is genius. Alternatively, distil your own gin at [Lord Byron Distillery](https://lordbyrondistillery.com.au/pages/distillery).  

**Time:** 1-2 hours 

**Parking:** Free onsite  


### 14. Party up at Byron’s annual events & festivals 

Byron Bay has an electric night scene, however, to truly see the town pumping, attend an annual festival. See in the new year in style at the multi-day [Falls Festival](https://byron.fallsfestival.com/), make the Easter pilgrimage for the fabulous [Bluesfest](https://www.bluesfest.com.au/), or experience one of the country’s best big-name festivals, [Splendour in the Grass](https://splendourinthegrass.com/lineup/), where RVs are not only welcome onsite but coveted (it often rains). There’s also the [Byron’s Writers Festival](https://byronwritersfestival.com/), [Byron Bay Film Festival](https://www.bbff.com.au/), and [Byron Bay Surf Festival](https://www.byronbaysurffestival.com.au/).  

**Time:** 1-3 days 

**Parking:** Varies per event 


##  Day trip from Byron Bay 

### 15. Explore charming Brunswick Heads 

Only 15 minutes north of Byron, [Brunswick Heads](https://www.brunswickheads.org.au/) is a charming coastal town with a relaxed atmosphere. The Brunswick River runs alongside quaint cafés and quirky boutiques, adding to the town’s charms, as well as proving popular for fishing, kayaking, and boating. Check to see what’s on at the [Brunswick Picture House](https://brunswickpicturehouse.com/our-events/), it’s a riot for comedy, cabaret, and circus shows.  

**Time:** 2-3 hours  

**Parking:** Street parking on Fingal Street and surrounds 

 ![Brunswick Heads.jpeg](https://storage.googleapis.com/jucy-turkana-prod-6fa3ff.appspot.com/Image/Brunswick_Heads_40b556c3c1/Brunswick_Heads_40b556c3c1.jpeg) 

### 16. Brunch in Bangalow 

Quaint, charming, and picturesque, [Bangalow’s](https://byronbay.com/bangalow/) historic buildings, cosy cafés, and quirky shops reveal what life’s like in the Byron hinterland. Only 20 minutes from central Byron, pop by for [a meal at Bangalow’s cosy eateries](https://www.visitnsw.com/destinations/north-coast/byron-bay-area/bangalow/restaurants) to enjoy fresh regional produce, like local macadamias, coffee, dairy, fruits, and veggies. Stock your motorhome fridge with goodies from Bangalow’s Saturday morning farmers’ markets. 

**Time: **1-3 hours 

**Parking:** Free  

 
### 17. Feel Zen at Crystal Castle & Shambhala Gardens 

A magical sanctuary with crystal displays, meditation spaces, and beautiful native flora, [Crystal Castle and Shambhala Gardens](https://www.crystalcastle.com.au) is a 25-minute drive from Byron Bay. Snap a selfie between two of the world’s tallest crystals, sit in the world’s largest amethyst cave, and reflect on life in the immaculate gardens. Join the [free daily activities](https://www.crystalcastle.com.au/see-and-do/daily-experience/), including a guided grounds tour and crystal sound healing. 

**Time:** 2-4 hours 

**Parking:** Ample and free 

 
### 18. Step back in time at Minyon Falls, Nightcap National Park 

An hour from Byron Bay, the 8,000-hectare [Nightcap National Park](https://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/visit-a-park/parks/nightcap-national-park/learn-more) is part of the heritage [UNESCO Gondwana Rainforests of Australia](https://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/conservation-and-heritage/gondwana-rainforests-of-australia) with flora an estimated 40 million years old! The highlight of any visit here is hiking to – and swimming in - Minyon Falls. These 100-metre pummelling plunge falls are especially magnificient after rain. See them from the lookout or take the challenging 13-kilometre [Minyon Falls track](https://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/things-to-do/walking-tracks/minyon-falls-walking-track). A dip at the cool waterfall pools is the perfect reward for your efforts. 
 
**Time:** Half to full day 

**Parking:** Free at the trailhead 

 ![Minyon Falls.jpeg](https://storage.googleapis.com/jucy-turkana-prod-6fa3ff.appspot.com/Image/Minyon_Falls_301588fc97/Minyon_Falls_301588fc97.jpeg) 

### 19. Get wowed at Mount Jerusalem National Park 

With three river systems and its position on the outer rim of the Tweed Caldera, a volcano active 21 million years ago, it’s no surprise Mount Jerusalem National Park has a lot to offer. Fifty minutes from Byron, the lush rainforest, ancient flora, and babbling creeks create an idyllic escape into nature. Bushwalk to the park’s waterfalls ([Unicorn Falls](https://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/things-to-do/walking-tracks/unicorn-falls-walking-track) is impressive in summer) or mountain bike or ride a horse through the park’s trails. You’ll pass Mullumbimby on your return to Byron if you want a post-adventure bathhouse soak (see ‘Get Pampered’ above).  

**Time:** 3-4 hours 

**Parking:** Free at trailheads 


### 20. Get mellow in Nimbin 

Further inland in the Northern Rivers region, quirky [Nimbin](https://www.visitnimbin.com.au/) is world-famous for its hippy vibes, alternative lifestyle, and stunning rainforest backdrop. Discover what makes Nimbin so unique as you wander its vibrant murals, discover the town’s [art culture](https://www.visitnimbin.com.au/arts-culture/p/1143), and taste-test goodies at its [vegan and vegetarian cafés](https://www.visitnimbin.com.au/food-dining/cafes-restaurants/p/1157). The Nimbin farmers’ market is held every Wednesday afternoon. 

**Time:** 2-4 hours 

**Parking:** Free all day 

 ![Nimbin.jpeg](https://storage.googleapis.com/jucy-turkana-prod-6fa3ff.appspot.com/Image/Nimbin_769119e57f/Nimbin_769119e57f.jpeg) 

## Start your motorhome adventure today 

Byron Bay’s stunning natural beauty, lively atmosphere, and wide-ranging activities, from the serene to the heart-pumping, make it a must-see destination for travellers collecting their Star RV motorhome from our Star RV [Brisbane motorhome hire](https://www.starrv.com/au/motorhome-hire-locations-au/brisbane) branch or on a [Brisbane to Sydney road trip](https://www.starrv.com/au/discover/must-dos-on-brisbane-to-sydney-road-trip) (or vice versa).  

Exploring the region by motorhome allows unmatched flexibility and freedom. Explore the town’s diverse attractions, nearby pristine beaches, quirky hinterland towns, and spectacular national parks (only an hour’s drive away) at your leisure.  

For a central stay, we recommend powered sites at Reflections or Discovery Parks. If you prefer a quieter spot, Suffolk Beachfront Holiday Park is only 10 minutes from central Byron.  

### Is a visit to Byron Bay calling you? 
Book your [Australia motorhome hire](https://www.starrv.com/au/motorhome-hire-au) and set off on the road trip of a lifetime, checking off the 20 top things to do in Byron Bay as you go. Click Book Now or speak to our team on [1800 875 018](Href=tel:1800875018) to answer the call.  

Stunning beaches, relaxed vibes, arts, wellness, and outdoor adventures. Check our guide for the top things to do in Byron Bay, on your Star RV motorhome journey.

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21 top things to do in Byron Bay, Australia