Byron Bay is on the north coast of New South Wales, an hour’s flight from Sydney. It’s a “hot” destination, and was most recently noted as one of the world’s top 25 sexiest beaches by Forbes Traveller Magazine. It’s a real must do for international visitors looking for a sublime beach holiday. The town itself is a melting pot of cosmopolitan chic, alternative philosophies, beach culture and hedonistic indulgence that spreads into the surrounding towns and villages. There’s plenty on offer here from surfing and kayaking with dolphins to a family day at the beach, gourmet dining to fish and chips on the sand, from massages, mud-baths and meditation to cycling, skydiving and hang gliding.   

It’s also shopping heaven – the streets are jam-packed with galleries and spas, homewares, designer beach clothes, cool cafes and funky juice bars. There’s an exciting events calendar throughout the year that attracts fans of jazz and blues, writers and artists to the International Blues and Roots festival, Byron Bay Writers Festival and the Fatherhood Festival.

Byron Bay and surrounds have some of the most seductive and comfortable resorts and retreats in Australia. There’s the Byron at Byron Resort and Spa set amongst native wetlands with environmentally sensitive, designer cabins. Gaia Retreat set on a mountain top near Ballina is owned by musician and actress Olivia Newton-John. It’s the perfect place to chill out with spa treatments, creative organic cuisine, yoga and other de-stressing treatments. The Arts Factory has budget accommodation and DJ classes, drumming workshops, belly dance lessons and painting workshops.

This is one of the most dynamic dining locations in Australia, where dedicated chefs using the freshest local ingredients create modern Australian cuisine.  Dine at dish for modern European fare or head for Fins, famous for its creative flair with seafood.

It’s a treat to be able to shop for really cool beach wear or designer labels while on a beach holiday. Byron makes shopping hip where visitors can buy the newest bikini, designer denim and sarongs from Australian and international designers. With great markets, there’s plenty of opportunity to buy souvenirs produced by Byron Bay locals.

Byron Bay has always attracted writers, artists and sculptors, making it one of Australia’s premier arts centres. So take time to check out the home-grown fine arts, fashion jewellery and homewares at local galleries and studios.

There are so many things to do in Byron Bay and surrounds. Diving and snorkelling off the beach or from a boat near Julian Rocks Marine Reserve is a real treat. Byron is the place to learn to surf or try kayaking with dolphins near Cape Byron. There are great walks – the Byron Bay Lighthouse track is one of Australia’s best coastal hikes.

For more information, visit www.visitnsw.com