The Best Towns Near Byron Bay For Day-Trips And Staycations

Do you hear that? It’s the sound of freedom calling as you book your next trip away. And you’re heading to the NSW North Coast. Stock up on snacks and load up your Google Maps with lots of stars, because even though Byron is our girl, there’s so much more to do and see in this beautiful part of the world. 

Whether you’re rocking a daycay (day trip) or choosing to spread your wings and try another town for a few days, these are Urban List's picks for the best spots in and around Byron that aren’t Byron but are definitely as good as Byron. 

Yamba

Image credit: The Surf Yamba | Instagram

Sitting pretty just 1.5 hours south of Byron Bay, Yamba’s relaxed vibe revels in the shadow of its history as a peaceful fishing village. The area, as well as neighbouring town Angourie, is heating up among weekenders for more than a few reasons. And here they are.

Foodies, you’ve got to hit a few places, so plan your itinerary accordingly. There’s the local farmer’s market, where the fruit and veg is plentiful, and the Ashby sourdough is next level; Beachwood Cafe for top Turkish food served in their sunlit courtyard, and then there’s Lela's, Yamba's seasonal-focused local restaurant and wine bar that packs in flavour with beautiful plating and locally-sourced ingredients. 

In terms of accom, honourable mentions go to The Cove Yamba for sunset beach views or SeaCrest for bigger groups.

Insider intel

• On hot days, Turner's Beach, Convent Beach, or the blue and green pools of Angourie are your best spots for a refreshing splash in the sea, before you climb back into your hot car and head home with sandy toes and salty skin. Bliss. 

Cabarita

Image credit: The Tweed NSW | Instagram

We’re heading north of Byron this time. But just 45 minutes to the Coral Sea coast and the laid-back town of Cabarita. Here, you’ll find Insta-worthy accommodation in the form of Halycon House, a boutique beachfront hotel with a private pool and excellent facilities for those of us who like the upmarket coastal life. For an unforgettable dinner, their in-house restaurant Paper Daisy is the perfect spot to park up for the evening—expect oysters, flavour-forward cocktails, and local seafood in an airy seaside setting. 

For something more casual, you’re in safe hands with the delicious coffee and honest food at local hole-in-the-wall Kartel Espresso, but definitely grab one of the famous doughnuts from Fuel Bakehouse. For the doers, it’s gotta be a day frolicking in the waves: You can’t go wrong on Cabarita Beach, but Norries Head is a must-visit as well.

Insider intel

• Bonus points if you can spot a whale or some dolphins. 

Bangalow

Image credit: Woods | Instagram

Just a leafy 17-minute drive from Byron’s main drag is Bangalow. It’s a great place to go antiquing, with quaint stores like Polish offering up stunning vintage wooden furniture with delivery options available if you find something you just gotta have. 

Bangalow Hotel is the ideal spot for a schooner and a yarn with the locals, while Woods is the pick for coffee and brekkie in a suitably cool timber-clad setting. When it comes to accommodation, there are two noteworthy options: the stunning 99 Acres Bangalow Retreat, a soothing and stylish hinterland escape; and Bangalow Guesthouse, a secluded heritage building set among lush green gardens. 

Insider intel

• If you'd prefer to just wander, the main street is a catch—lined with historic Federation style buildings. 

Brunswick Heads

Image credit: Byron Bay NSW | Instagram

If you keep going past Byron for 20 minutes, you’ll find yourself in the uber-cool streets of Brunswick Heads, where the baby blue ocean laps up against the rocks and you can forget the rest of the world.

There are plenty of accommodation options here, including three chic modern motel-style locations you’ve no doubt spotted on Insta. There’s Chalet Motel, with 60’s tropical vibes and free bike hire for exploring. You’ve got The Brunswick, an eco-friendly, natural-styled adults-only boutique hotel complete with a pool for afternoon lounging. Then, there’s The Sails Motel & Pool Bar, an affordable retro option that needs no introduction once you’ve seen its white walls and nautical interiors. 

When it comes to eating, you can't go past the classic Hotel Brunswick. With live music and tasty meals, it's the perfect post beach hang. Love pizza? Grab a slice and a cocktail from Saint Maries (conveniently located underneath The Sails).

Push the boat out at La Casita—this Mexican cantina slings drool-worthy authentic eats and excellent margaritas. On the other side, there’s Bruns Bakery, kicking it old school with 50 years of baking under its belt. Flaky croissants, hearty pies and doughnuts are just a few of the delicacies on offer.

 If you're still struggling, check out our list of the best restaurants in Brunswick Heads. 

Insider intel

• If you want to stay busy, we love stand-up paddle boarding at Brunswick River or Simpsons Creek, or Brunswick Picture House for some of that live entertainment your life has been missing. 

Lennox Head

Image credit: Byron Bay NSW | Instagram

Big on Urban List’s radar this year, tranquil Lennox Head is where it's at for chilled times on the coast. Just 25 minutes by car from Byron, it’s got just the right amount of chilling versus doing. Start with a place to rest your head: Lennox Beach Resort has just the casual simplicity you’re looking for, with a side of pool. Or if you'd rather have your own space, try Quarterdeck 18. The two-bedroom townhouse sleeps four and has spectacular views of Seven Mile Beach to Broken Head.

For eats, it’s gotta be the noteworthy Shelter, serving up delicious coffee and breakfast all the way through to date-worthy dinner options. For the adventurers, head straight to Seven Mile Beach for the secret (or not so…) swimming spot of dreams.

Insider intel

• You could always hike on up to Lennox Head lookout, or do a skydive…you know it’s on that crumpled-up bucket list of yours.

Lismore

Image credit: Frida's Field | Instagram

About 40 minutes inland from Byron Bay, Lismore is a vibrant community of creatives, hospo legends and live music heavy weights. To get here, you actually take the Byron exit off the M1 then take a sharp right at the roundabout. You'll veer off the mainroad and cut through Bangalow, Clunes and Bexhill, some of the most iconic Northern Rivers gems. 

Home to a biker's dream, The Rail Trail which recently opened their Lismore to Casino leg for walkers and cyclers alike, there's no shortage of things to do in this diverse town. From the latest exhibition at the Lismore Art Gallery, to world-class skate events at the widely applauded Lismore Skatepark, even festivals and gigs that take over the entire town's streets. 

For a warm welcome to the region, head directly to 187 Cantina for dirty fries and limp brisket bowls, or if you've rolled into town for a nightcap, grab a table at The Levee for decently poured cocktails and a hidden feel. 

Insider intel

• At golden hour, snake through the hinterland trail, weaving through thick forest and zooming past rolling meadows of grazing cows for sublime views.

Alstonville

This quaint town is the perfect staycay spot for a few reasons. It's perfectly snuggled between the coastal glory of Ballina and the farmlands of Lismore. Which makes it a miniscule half hour drive from Byron Bay. La Casita Studio is the perfect staycay locale for couples, and Camellia takes the cake for cottagecore vibes. 

It's hard to top a day at Summerland Farm, which is home to the sweetest ponies, llamas and cows. Plus a splashpad, towering playground and plant market. As well as an onsite cafe which offers employment to people with diabilities. The grounds are stunning and the wares instore are reasonably priced. 

Insider intel

• Head directly to Buckley's Chance for the best smoked chilli scramble of the region, then HOME Alstonville which is disguised as a homewares shop but is actually the most popular pastry spot in town. Patiently waiting your turn will be tough, the lines are long but the moment you wrap your mits around the artistic desserts, and sip down a coconut cold brew. Next level.

Main image credit: Halycon House | Instagram

Editor's note: Urban List editors independently select and write about stuff we love and think you'll like too. Urban List has affiliate partnerships, so we get revenue from your purchase.