Why is Byron Bay such a popular travel destination? What is it that makes all backpackers want to come here and stay for months? We call it the Byron feeling…
When Byron Bay was discovered by surfers around Australia the town began blooming as it became a more and more popular travel destination.
Here are just a few of the reasons why Byron Bay is such a popular holiday destination for backpackers and Australians…
Why Byron Bay is a Popular Travel Destination
Byron Bay Lighthouse
At Cape Byron, the most eastern point of Australia, lies the famous Byron Bay Lighthouse, one of the most powerful working lighthouses in Australia. Captain Cook named Cape Byron after John Byron, grandfather of the famous poet. The Lighthouse, being the most easterly spot in Australia is also the earliest sunrise. (Ok by milliseconds, but still the first!)
The Ambience
Byron Bay is famous for its unique ambience, which is a big part of the “Byron” feeling. You can find many a local hippy and street artist all around and there is always something going on in town. If you stroll through the streets you’ll see small colourful shops and dining places that give expression to the alternative lifestyle of Byron Bay. Blend in the amazingly relaxed atmosphere, The Byron Bay locals as well as the many Pubs & Clubs in Byron Bay and bustling live music scene, it’s hard NOT to have a good time in Bryon Bay!
Festivals & Events
There are many festivals and events in Byron Bay all year round including Splendour in the Grass, the Byron Bay Film Festival, Byron Bay Bluesfest, the annual Nimbin Mardigrass and plenty of New Year’s Eve festivities including the Falls Festival.
Surfing
Byron Bay has 9 outstanding surfing beaches, for which it is internationally known; ‘The Pass’ lies directly next to the world famous Lighthouse and is a very popular surfspot, ‘The wreck’ which is good for beginner surfers, then you have the main beach, Belongil beach, Watego’s and little Watego’s, ‘the Cosy Corner’ which is protected by the Arakwal National Park, Clarkes Beach which is great for paragliding and last but not least ‘Tallows beach’ which is really good for beach fishing. If you are a beginner – why not try a Surf Lesson?
Things to Do
There is always enough to do in Byron Bay, you can go snorkelling at Julian Rocks Marine reserve, Kayaking, Hang Gliding, Whale Watching, learn to surf, cycling, skydiving, walking to Byron Bay Lighthouse, on a visit to the hippy village of Nimbin or explore the surrounding National Parks or Byron Bay Hinterland.
Markets
There are many weekly, monthly and yearly Byron Bay Markets worth checking out, including the Sunday Community Markets, the Byron Bay beach side markets and more! The Byron Markets attract loads of fresh produce, unique clothing and accessories and amazing arts and crafts.
Famous Locals
They say that there’s 3 types of people found in Byron Bay and they’re not wrong! There are also some notable residents of Byron Bay that you may just spot during visiting and these are; Crocodile Dundee, Jack Johnson, Turiya Hanover (a new-age spiritualist and the widow of Prince Welf of Hanover), Chayne Hultgren (“Space Cowboy”) a world record-breaking sword swallower and street performer, Parkway Drive; an Internationally famed metalcore band, the 50 Lions which is another famed band from the hardcore punk scene and our newest Byron Bay celebrity – Tommy Franklin who is well known on the streets of our town and now even more well known due to his stint on Australia’s Got Talent. The Hemsworths are also often found in the area too!
The Arts Factory Lodge
Byron Bay is also the home of the “Arts Factory Lodge“, a well known backpackers hostel which was created in the 70’s by hippies and locals. The Arts Factory Lodge is where the famous Byron Bay Bluesfest first began. Many artists gathered here and so it became a rock and roll venue in the 80’s. The Spirit of Byron Bay is reflected by the vision of the Arts Factory and it is still a place where many creative minds come together. The Arts Factory holds the Guinness World Record for the most people fire-twirling at the same time. If you really want to know what the Byron Bay feeling is all about, come and experience it yourself and stay at The Arts Factory!