Local knowledge is power when it comes to travelling with children. Photographer and mama of two, Gayle Martin, shares how she does life in Australia’s idyllic seaside town of Byron Bay.
Byron Bay is … diversely beautiful in every way.
You’ll find the best coffee hit at Bayleaf or Beach Byron Cafe (I find it hard to choose, I’m a serial cafe hopper)
Breakfast at The Byron at Byron is a must because when Byron gets busy, it is a tucked away oasis. Plus the buffet is all kinds of yum.
Lunch hot spot locals don’t want outsiders to know about is …To be totally honest, I’m not sure!! I’m a breakfast or dinner person. Rarely ever have lunch out. I’d recommend getting takeaways & eating them on the headland or at the beach.
For dinner you have to try The Mez Club – get a group together & order up a tapas feast. Their Mediterranean menu is mouthwatering. I’d recommend the lamb kofte balls & crispy Cypriot haloumi.
Shop till you drop at Newrybar Merchants – a treasure trove of the most beautiful homewares, books, bedding & children’s toys. Basically anything your heart desires. Also, must visit St. Agni. Think heavenly leather shoes & linen garments. I. want. everything. It’s dangerous.
Have drinks with a view at Beach Byron Bay. You look straight out into the beach & as far as The Pass. Hearing the waves while you sip your beverage of choice, puts you in instant holiday mode.
Treat yourself to some R&R at Buddha Gardens Day Spa. Float in the heated plunge pool & zone out in the sauna – all prior to your treatment! Then try the ‘Byron de-stress’ 3.5hr package, I hear it’s amazingggg (hint hint husband).
Every visitor to Byron has to do the lighthouse walk at least once! You’ll spot wallabys, dolphins & if you’re lucky – sea turtles. Have takeaway dinner on the sand for sunset. Pop out to Newrybar for Harvest’s delicious bakery treats.
Tourists must know that there are so many beautiful hinterland spots to explore, so branch out while you’re visiting.
The best place to take kids is to one of our many gorgeous beaches around the bay. Go early & make a day out of it! You’ll snag great shady spots (hard to come by later on in the day). A beautiful day at the beach is hard to beat.
Follow more of Gayle’s dreamy Byron Bay adventures via her Instagram account @cape_to_byron
Looking for another escape? Check out our guide to the Gold Coast.
