So many backpackers come and go from Byron Bay without ever having a little adventure by going on one of these awesome Byron Bay day trips. You’ll miss out on seeing some of the amazing places that are situated just in and around the Byron Bay Hinterland if you just stay in Byron Bay itself!
I highly recommend either getting to know a fellow traveller, that owns a reliable car, or simply get a few friends to pitch in and hire a car for the day. You can hire a car from as little as $50 for a day which is well worth it for the fun trips you can do. So here are my Top 5 random Byron Bay Day Trips that are a must see.
Best Byron Bay Day Trips
1. Glow Worms at Natural Bridge
Natural bridge is located in Springbrook Natural Park just outside the Gold Coast. Natural bridge is created by millions of years of water tumbling through the roof of a basalt cave. The bridge is home to a large colony of glow worms that you can see at any time of year after sunset.
On summer nights you could also be lucky enough to see fire flies and mushrooms that glow in the dark. In summer take your swimmers as it’s perfectly fine to swim in the pristine clear waters under the waterfall.
2. Rocky Creek Dam
Rocky Creek Dam is located in the Wain Wain forest approx 20km north of Lismore which is around 1.5 hours drive from Byron Bay. Water stored in the dam is used to supply drinking water to the Northern rivers which sounds a little boring but it’s a beautiful picnic or BBQ site on a sunny day. It also has all the facilities you need like toilets, a bbq area etc. Nature lovers may even be a able to spot a platypus there from the platypus viewing platform! There are a range of walks around the dam too if you’re keen.
3. Mount Tamborine
Mt Tamborine is in the Gold Coast hinterlands approx 1.5 hours drive away. For this Byron Bay day trip I highly recommend a designated driver, or alternatively throw a tent in the car and stay the night. Mt Tamborine is not only home to a brewery and a number of amazing wineries but also a distillery that makes the best vodka and lemoncello I have tried in a long, long time (and I have tried a lot)!
You’ll also find a range of good cafes and a few shops selling homemade fudge. Tamborine mountain distillery is definitely a must see. You might even find yourself sitting with Michael Ward himself or a member of his family. There are a huge range of spirits for you to choose from and they’re very happy for you to sit and try any mixture you can think of.
4. Mullumbimby
Just a 20 minute drive north of Bryon Bay, Mullumbimby is a true counter culture community that many visitors to Australia have never heard of. Wandering through town you’ll find locally grown coffee and produce, unique clothing and accessories and mind warping arts and crafts. The Crystal Castle is an enchanting attraction that you simply must visit. Spend time wandering through the lush tropical gardens admiring the marble statues and 4 metre tall Buddha. If you’re into crystals and Tarot Reading you’ll find yourself right at home. Check out the ancient labyrinth – a walk of spiritual reflection.
5. Mt Warning
Mt Warning is located in the Tweed Coast Hinterland so give yourself approximately 1 hour to get there. Visiting Mt Warning is all about good timing and picking the right day. Clear blue skies are a must as it’s possible to see all the way over to the Byron Bay Lighthouse. It’s a good 5 hour walk there and back so pack supplies like snacks and water. I also recommend taking your camera and someone funny to entertain you during the walk. Do a late night or early morning mission to see the sunrise or the sunset from the lookout. (Just take a torch!)
Have fun going on one of these Byron Bay day trips that will let you explore these lesser known places!