City Guide: Where to eat, swim and shop in Byron Bay
image via @rowiethelabel/instagram
words by Ange Khoudair
Everything you need to know before visiting Byron Bay.
Here at Fashion Journal, we want to unearth the hidden spots in Australian cities that only the locals know about. There’s no gatekeeping here – this is a breakdown of the best bits of our cities. We want underrated date spots, treasure trove op shops, five-star massage studios and the wine bars people will always want to go back to.
Most people who’ve visited Byron Bay often leave with the same parting message: “I could really live here one day”. After more than a decade of visiting, fashion writer and publicist Ange Khoudair finally took the plunge, relocating from Sydney.
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Perched at the easternmost point of mainland Australia, the northern rivers destination is also known by the traditional Arakwal Bundjalung name Cavvanbah, meaning ‘meeting place’. Home to lush hinterland, sprawling coastline and a wellspring of local boutiques and restaurants, Byron is ideal for a weekend stint, road trip or summer-long getaway.
It’s also home to the best sunset Ange has ever seen. Now a local, she shares with us her tried-and-tested favourites, from where to eat, drink and swim, to the best spots to shop and enjoy a little pampering.
Eat and drink
Bayleaf cafe
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If you’re in Byron, you can’t go past Bayleaf. An old favourite, it reliably serves up 10 out of 10 food and coffee, with an atmosphere to match.
The farmers market
If you happen to be in Byron Bay on a Thursday, the Farmers market is so much fun. Grab a matcha and a yummy fresh baked treat while picking up some local produce direct from the farmers.
Folk Byron Bay
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Folk cafe is a leafy oasis, tucked away from the hustle of Byron’s main street. Known for its fresh, organic and plant-focused menu, it’s the perfect place to stop in for a relaxed breakfast or lunch. Plus if you’re lucky, you might catch ones of its garden gigs or flea markets.
Smoking Camel
Depending on what mood you’re in, Byron Bay has something for everyone when it comes to dinner options. Smoking Camel serve up delicious Middle Eastern meals and cocktails.
Mullumbimby Continental
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A short drive out of town, Mullumbimby Continental ‘s share plates are magnificent. The menu typically changes with the seasons, and there are new specials daily. Plus there’s a delicious wine selection from around the world, with locals beers and classic cocktails.
Raes on Wategos
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Nestled on the shore of Wategos beach, Raes is home to one of Byron’s most iconic hotels and restaurants. Enjoy a glass of wine and a dozen oysters while looking out at the ocean.
Swim
Waterfalls
There are some stunning waterfalls in the Byron shire. One of my favourites, Minyon Falls can be found in the World Heritage Listed Gondwana Rainforest and is such an amazing day out. Pack your water, snacks and bathers and lose yourself in nature.
Beaches
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Every beach in Byron is full of magic. The Pass is perfect if you love to surf, or if the tide is high, the water is nice for a paddle. Bruns River is ideal for floating along with the tide, and Wategoes Beach and Christmas Beach both have the clearest crystal clear water. If you’re lucky, you might spot a whale or pod of dolphins!
Tea tree lake
The perfect spot for some rest and rejuvenation, Tea Tree Lake in Lennox Head is a popular spot for kayaking and swimming. Pack a picnic blanket, a book and spend the afternoon.
Pamper
Pause Studio
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If you have the time, I’d highly recommend a stop in at Pause. Its founder, Marine, is a French facialist, bring with her over 15 years experience. Her practice is deeply intuitive, offering Kobido face massage and seasonal rituals depending on your needs.
Bloe
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If you feel like a little glow up before a night out, Bloe is my top pick. A one-stop-shop for all your hair needs, Bloe can cater to all hair types. It’s also just opened their new warehouse in the Industrial estate with a nail bar on the top floor.
Shop
Planet Corroboree
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A Byron Bay icon, Planet Corroboree has been open since 2002. Full of unique crystals, and thoughtfully curated Indigenous art and artefacts, this is a beautiful shop to support during your stay. If you’re lucky you might also meet the owner, Daniel, who can play you a mighty fine tune on the didge!
Zulu and Zephyr
Australian coastal fashion at its best, the Zulu and Zephyr store is a beautiful space and home to its latest collection of swim and resort-wear in organic fabrics (and it’s right next-door to Pause).
Rowie the label
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Based in Byron Bay and founded by designer, Rowie Moore, Rowie the Label makes timeless pieces you can rotate from season to season.
Lottie Hall
Owning a piece from Lottie Hall’s collection, is like owning your own little of treasure. There are no mass collections here, just unique, carefully thought through pieces featuring hand drawn prints and lots of love.
Keep up with Ange here.
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