Beaches in Byron Bay

THE 5 BEST Byron Bay Beaches

Beaches in Byron Bay

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What travellers are saying

  • VeniVeniVisitavi
    Adana, Türkiye70 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Belongil Beach is a picturesque beach located to the north of the town of Byron Bay in New South Wales, Australia. It offers a more tranquil and secluded atmosphere compared to the bustling beaches closer to the town center. Here's some information about Belongil Beach:

    Location: Belongil Beach is situated approximately 3 kilometers (1.9 miles) north of Byron Bay's central business district. It is accessible via Bayshore Drive, which runs parallel to the beach, or by walking along the shoreline from the town center.

    Natural Beauty: Belongil Beach is known for its natural beauty, with pristine sands, rolling dunes, and stunning coastal scenery. The beach is backed by lush vegetation, including coastal scrub and low-lying vegetation, creating a sense of tranquility and seclusion.

    Secluded Atmosphere: Belongil Beach offers a more relaxed and less crowded experience compared to the busier beaches closer to Byron Bay's town center. It's a great spot to escape the crowds and enjoy a peaceful beach outing.

    Activities: Belongil Beach provides a range of activities for visitors to enjoy. These include swimming, sunbathing, beachcombing, and picnicking. The beach's uncrowded nature makes it ideal for long walks, jogging, or simply unwinding and soaking up the sun.

    Dog-Friendly: Belongil Beach is one of the dog-friendly beaches in the Byron Bay area. It allows dogs off-leash in designated areas, providing an opportunity for dog owners to enjoy the beach with their furry companions.

    Surfing and Fishing: Belongil Beach offers surfable waves, particularly at the northern end near Belongil Creek. The beach is suitable for beginners and intermediate surfers. Additionally, fishing enthusiasts can try their luck from the shore or in the nearby Belongil Creek.

    Amenities: While Belongil Beach is a more secluded area, it does offer some amenities for visitors. These include parking spaces along Bayshore Drive, public toilets, and access points to the beach. However, it's advisable to bring your own supplies, such as food, water, and sun protection, as there are no nearby shops or facilities.

    It's important to note that Belongil Beach may have different conditions depending on the time of year, tides, and weather. It's recommended to check local surf and safety conditions before engaging in any water activities.

    Belongil Beach provides a serene and less crowded beach experience, allowing visitors to enjoy the natural beauty of the area and relax in a tranquil setting. Whether you're looking for a peaceful day at the beach, a stroll along the shoreline, or a spot to take your furry friend for a walk, Belongil Beach offers a serene and scenic escape from the busier parts of Byron Bay.
    Written 2 July 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Mairwen1
    United Kingdom9,565 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Almost every Australian who talks about Byron starts by saying in a wistful tone, ’It’s not what it used to be’ and then goes on to lament that the once bohemian surfers’ paradise has been ruined by tourism and commercialisation.
    Certainly it's a tourist mecca these days but it’s also a lively, fun, and stunningly beautiful part of the NSW coastline.
    The beaches all have rolling waves and long stretches of golden sand. We alternated between Main Beach, Clarkes Beach and Wategos but our favourite was The Pass.
    The thing that really ‘made’ our trip was staying right on the beach.
    Byron Bay Beachfront Apartments were directly opposite Main beach so we walked nearly everywhere and hardly moved our car during our stay.
    Car parking and congestion on the main road are two of the big frustrations for many visitors to Byron so if you can avoid this by booking centrally located accommodation then it will make all the difference.
    The village centre was also just a couple of minutes walk away. It’s crowded for sure but it also offers lots of shops, boutiques, cafes, street entertainers, bars, and upmarket restaurants.
    Japonaise Kitchen was our favourite for a casual meal.
    Byron Bay is mostly all about the beaches but if you need a change of pace, there are a lot of other things to do.
    One afternoon we decided to do a bit of exploring so we walked the Byron Bay History Walking Trail (see separate review).
    On the weekend, we went to the very popular Community Markets which are held on Sunday mornings.
    The best non-beach thing we did was visiting The Farm. Kids loved feeding the sheep, chickens and pigs and we loved relaxing at the cafe-restaurant.
    Written 14 March 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Mairwen1
    United Kingdom9,565 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Wategos may not be the main beach in Byron Bay but it is very lovely. It’s a classic Australian surf beach with rolling waves and a long crescent-shaped stretch of almost white sand.
    It is a relatively sheltered beach, making it a good choice for swimming. There is some shade on the beach
    There are basic facilities including changing rooms, showers and toilets. However there are no lifeguards and street parking is metered and in any case, is extremely limited.
    Instead, we walked in from The Pass Beach. It’s paid parking here too but at least there’s a large carpark and lots of space. The walk up and over the headland starts from Palm Valley (alongside the carpark) and is definitely a challenging and steep path in the summer. However its a good way to work up a sweat before you dive into the waves at the other end and on the plus side, you get some absolutely lovely views along the way.
    Written 12 March 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • VeniVeniVisitavi
    Adana, Türkiye70 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Tallow Beach is a picturesque beach located in Byron Bay, New South Wales, Australia. It is a stunning stretch of coastline known for its natural beauty, serenity, and scenic surroundings. Here's some information about Tallow Beach:

    Location: Tallow Beach is situated to the south of Byron Bay's town center, adjacent to Cape Byron State Conservation Area. It can be accessed by taking Suffolk Park Road and turning onto Alcorn Street, which leads to beach access points.

    Natural Beauty: Tallow Beach is renowned for its unspoiled natural beauty. It features a long, sandy shoreline backed by lush vegetation and rolling sand dunes. The beach is flanked by Arakwal National Park, adding to its scenic appeal.

    Secluded Atmosphere: Compared to the more popular Main Beach in Byron Bay, Tallow Beach offers a more secluded and tranquil atmosphere. It is a quieter alternative for those seeking a peaceful beach experience away from the crowds.

    Surfing: Tallow Beach is popular among surfers due to its reliable surf breaks. The beach is known for its consistent waves, making it suitable for experienced surfers. It's important to note that Tallow Beach is not patrolled by lifeguards, so caution should be exercised when entering the water.

    Dog-Friendly: Tallow Beach is one of the designated dog-friendly beaches in the Byron Bay area. Dog owners can bring their furry friends to enjoy the sand and water, provided they are kept on a leash and under control.

    Walks and Nature Trails: Tallow Beach is part of the Cape Byron Walking Track, which extends along the coastline. Visitors can embark on scenic walks that take them through coastal rainforest, offering opportunities to spot wildlife and enjoy panoramic views.

    Clothing-Optional Section: The southern end of Tallow Beach, known as Tyagarah Beach, has a clothing-optional area. This section is popular among naturists and offers a more liberating beach experience for those who prefer clothing-optional recreation.

    Parking and Facilities: Tallow Beach has parking available near the beach access points, but it can get busy during peak times. Facilities such as public toilets and showers may be limited, so it's advisable to come prepared with necessary supplies.

    Tallow Beach offers a serene and scenic coastal experience for visitors looking to relax, surf, enjoy nature walks, or spend time with their furry companions. Whether you're seeking solitude, a surfing adventure, or a leisurely stroll along the shoreline, Tallow Beach provides a beautiful setting to enjoy the natural wonders of Byron Bay.
    Written 2 July 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Mairwen1
    United Kingdom9,565 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    This is a magical spot at the far end of the long stretch of beach that starts at Main Beach. It quickly became our favourite beach in Byron.
    This is a classic Australian surf beach with rolling waves and a stretch of almost white sand.
    At the furthest end is Fisherman’s Lookout, a steep set of wooden stairs leading up the side of a rocky outcrop, with a crows-nest like lookout at the top and an incredible panoramic view.
    Just below is a set of large rock pools that are large enough for small children to paddle and swim in. Even toddlers can lie in these warm waters and kick their legs as if they are swimming. This is a very sheltered, safe area.
    There are all the facilities you need for a day at the beach, including outdoor showers, toilets, The Pass Cafe, and a large carpark. Like most beachside parking in Byron, it is paid parking.
    The easiest parking is down by the boat ramp where you have an almost level walk onto the beach. Otherwise, you can park up at the Captain Cook Lookout but this is nowhere near as convenient. There are a lot of steps to get to the sand and it’s a trek if you have small children and a lot of beach paraphernalia.
    If you need to get off the beach and out of the sun for a while, there is a shady paved area with picnic tables back up near The Pass Cafe. There is also a nice, shady little looped walking path through Palm Valley.
    Written 16 March 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • VeniVeniVisitavi
    Adana, Türkiye70 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    Byron Beach refers to the beaches located in and around the town of Byron Bay in New South Wales, Australia. Byron Bay is known for its stunning coastline and beautiful beaches that attract locals and tourists alike. Here's some information about Byron Beach:

    Main Beach (Byron Bay Beach): Main Beach is the primary beach in Byron Bay and is located right in the heart of the town. It stretches for about 2 kilometers (1.2 miles) and offers a picturesque setting with its golden sands, crystal-clear waters, and views of the Cape Byron Lighthouse. Main Beach is popular for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing, and it is patrolled by surf lifesavers.

    Clarkes Beach: Located to the east of Main Beach, Clarkes Beach is another popular beach in Byron Bay. It is slightly more sheltered than Main Beach and offers calmer conditions for swimming and other water activities. Clarkes Beach is also known for its scenic beauty and is bordered by grassy areas that are ideal for picnics and barbecues.

    The Pass: The Pass is a renowned surf spot located at the eastern end of Clarkes Beach. It offers consistent waves that attract surfers of all skill levels. The beach is known for its picturesque setting, with the iconic Cape Byron Lighthouse in the background. The Pass is a great place to watch surfers or try your hand at catching some waves.

    Wategos Beach: Situated just to the east of The Pass, Wategos Beach is a beautiful and tranquil beach known for its pristine beauty and clear waters. It is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking. Wategos Beach also offers stunning views of the Cape Byron Lighthouse and is a great place to spot dolphins and whales during their migration season.

    Little Wategos Beach: Located just around the corner from Wategos Beach, Little Wategos is a secluded and often quieter beach. It is accessible via a walking track from Wategos Beach and offers a serene and intimate setting. Please note that Little Wategos Beach is not patrolled, so caution should be exercised when swimming.

    Belongil Beach: Belongil Beach is located to the north of Byron Bay and extends for several kilometers. It offers a more rugged and less developed atmosphere compared to the beaches closer to the town center. Belongil Beach is popular for long walks, beachcombing, and enjoying a quieter beach experience away from the hustle and bustle of the town.

    Byron Beaches are not only known for their natural beauty but also for their vibrant surf culture and the opportunity to spot marine life. They provide a range of activities, from swimming and sunbathing to surfing and beach walks, catering to different preferences. It's important to note that some beaches have designated surf zones and patrolled areas, so it's advisable to follow any safety signs and instructions provided by lifeguards or surf lifesavers.
    Written 2 July 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Mairwen1
    United Kingdom9,565 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    This is the most popular beach in Byron Bay. It’s a classic Australian surf beach with a long, long stretch of sand and rolling waves.
    It extends all the way east around to the far headland but at some point, it becomes Clarkes Beach, and then area known as The Pass.
    It’s centrally located and is just a few minutes walk from the town and all the fashionable shops and cafes of Byron.
    The beach has all the facilities you need for a day at the beach, including modern toilets and change rooms, showers, a big Surf Life-Saving clubhouse, car-parking, and a large grassy park at the back of the sand with a picnic area, barbecues, and playground.
    Parking is not free and even though the car park is large, it’s still hard to find a spot because it fills up very quickly.
    We stayed at the Beachfront Apartments which was a brilliant location, directly opposite Main Beach. We didn’t have to worry about car parking at all. We walked across the park to the beach every day and it was especially lovely at the end of the day as the light faded and the sky took on the beautiful colours of the evening.
    Written 14 March 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Mairwen1
    United Kingdom9,565 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Clarkes Beach is a lovely, long, flat sandy stretch of beach that lies between Main Beach and The Pass. It’s hard to tell where Main Beach finishes and Clarkes Beach begins as they blend together in one long stretch of beach that reaches all the way around to the lighthouse headland.
    You can access Clarkes Beach either by walking along the sand from Main Beach or via a number of tracks that lead down from the park beside Lawson St. These are the easiest paths because you walk straight onto the beach.
    The beach has all the facilities you need for a day at the beach, including toilets and change rooms, outdoor showers, and a large grassy park behind the beach with a picnic area and barbecues.
    Parking is always tricky around the popular Byron beaches. There is a carpark at Main Beach and another one at Captain Cook Lookout but from the lookout, you have to walk down a long flight of stairs to the beachfront.
    A nice feature of Clarkes Beach is that the receding tide often leaves behind large tidal pools which are fun for children to paddle in (although we noticed some signs warning that this water wasn’t always clean).
    Written 14 March 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Abigaile A
    1 contribution
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Our family absolutely loved the surfing lessons here at Byron bay. We had such a friendly instructor called Guy, who taught us all the tricks and tips especially for us beginners. It was such a friendly and fun community and enjoyed every bit. We went through all the safety tips then set out into the water. It was super safe and definitely recommend.
    Written 15 December 2022
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Frequently Asked Questions about Byron Bay






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