Guide to Winter in Byron Bay
Here’s a little local’s secret: the best time to visit Byron Bay is between April and September every year.
Sun-kissed living is extended through the winter months, even if the daylight hours are slightly shorter. Winter in Byron Bay means you’ll share the surf with the locals, have your pick of the best beach spots, easily find a car park (yes – even at Wategos) and skip the summer crowds. Winter weather is a delightful mix of gorgeous sunshine, blue skies and crispy mountain air blowing in from the hinterland.
From crisp coastal walks to steamy saunas, spa days and whale watching, discover the magic of Byron Bay in winter with our guide to the season’s best experiences.
Beach days with a difference
While the days get cooler in winter, the ocean temperature tends to stay pleasant right up until the end of August (we promise.) With plenty of sunshine, there’s no reason you can’t continue to enjoy the beach. Go for an early morning swim and follow it with a hot coffee while you sit on the sand. Pack a delicious picnic filled with local produce from the markets, go for a run, practice yoga. Rinse and repeat.
Kayak and whale watching
Byron Bay is considered one of the best places in the country for whale watching, with the Southern Hemisphere humpback whales on their way to the breeding and birthing grounds in the subtropics. At more than 2,500-kms, this is considered one of the longest migrations in the animal kingdom. Whales migrate past Byron Bay from May to November, and there are several excellent kayak tours from which to catch the whales in action. Paddle out into the marine park and learn about local history, aboriginal history, the lighthouse, dolphins, whales, and turtles.
Image Credit: Destination NSW
Learn to surf
With great surf all year-round, learn to surf with Lets Go Surfing as you don a super warm wetsuit and enjoy conditions that are more beginner friendly in the winter months. The whales are an extra bonus. You can also opt in for a stand-up paddleboard tour, great for all ages and fitness levels.
(Eléme) Spa the day away
As we transition through the seasons our skin’s needs also change. Dry winter skin calls for a bit of extra pampering and you’ll probably notice it start to lose a little glow and lustre. Book yourself in at Eléme Day Spa at Crystalbrook Byron for a muscle-melting rubdown and deeply nourishing skincare. The purest, unadulterated, natural ingredients from Australian-made Sodashi products are used to customise all treatments. We highly recommend the Curative Crystalus, a meditative massage to balance the mind, body and spirit with the use of ancient Australian healing stones and crystals. And don’t forget to take a bottle of the Calming Serum home. An infusion of 12 strengthening botanical oils including Vetiver, Rosehip, Centella, Chamomile and Sandalwood, this soothing and nourishing blend protects and speeds skin recovery for a glowy, clear complexion.
Explore Aboriginal Byron
Dive into the magical history of the Byron Bay area with a guided tour by Delta Kay, an Arakwal Bundjalung woman who is passionate about sharing Aboriginal culture. You’ll have the opportunity to learn some Bundjalung language along the 2-hour guided walks through some of Byron Bay’s most spectacular scenery, as well as all about bush tucker (food), natural medicine, tools, weapons and artefacts.
Shop ‘till you drop
With so many awesome local brands to check out in Byron Bay, the cooler weather is the perfect excuse (as if you needed one) to indulge in a little retail therapy. We recommend heading to the Industrial Estate where you will find local labels such as Naganta, Rowie The Label, Tigmi Trading, and, of course, sustainable St. Agni (our personal favourite) among others. We love St. Agni so much we’ve dressed our entire Experience Curator team in their clothing. Pop past the front desk at Crystalbrook Byron for some outfit inspo.
Image Credit: Destination NSW
Chase waterfalls in winter
Winter in Byron Bay is made for chasing waterfalls. Grab your runners, togs, and a water bottle, and explore some of the region’s most scenic falls. Our favourite, Minyon Falls, is a 9km track with a creek at the bottom where you can take a dip or grab a few insta-worthy pics of the 100-metre-tall waterfall. We also love Killen Falls, located between Byron and Ballina. Don’t forget to pick up some snacks from the picturesque village of Tintenbar first.
Image Credit: Tourism & Events Queensland
Swim. sauna. repeat.
Crystalbrook Byron’s infinity swimming pool is heated to a delicious 27 degrees which means wallowing in the warm water is a year-round (highly encouraged) activity. And while it might be a tad too chilly to laze on the loungers in winter, the sauna is located within the pool area which makes it perfect for a bit of post-pool heat therapy.
Byron Bay Lighthouse Walk
It’s a must. Have you always put it off because you’ve been visiting during summer and the heat is just *too much*? We recommend going really early (just after sunrise). The light at either end of the day is seriously spectacular. Jump on the track near the corner of Lawson and Massinger Streets in town and head off. There are lots of stairs and big hills in parts, but it’s all very worth it. The views will blow your mind. If you are walking between August and November, you will be blessed with many whale sightings and most likely dolphins as well.
Image Credit: Destination NSW
Crystal Castle and Shambhala Gardens
Crystal Castle is another magical place that children absolutely love. Tucked away in the hinterland, a 30 minute drive from town, Crystal Castle is home to magical gardens that are filled with Tibetan stupas and prayer flags, buddhas, giant crystals (including the world’s largest amethyst), an ancient labyrinth, bamboo forest, crystal shops, and a cafe. If you are lucky, you might coincidentally time your visit with one of their beautiful sound bath healing sessions that take place each day inside the labyrinth.
Byron Bay markets in winter
No trip to Byron Bay is complete without a sunny winter stroll through its iconic markets. The Byron Community Market, held on the first Sunday of every month at Dening Park, is a vibrant mix of local makers, artists, growers, and creatives. Expect everything from handmade ceramics and woven baskets to fresh flowers, organic skincare, vintage fashion, and soulful live music drifting through the trees.
Byron winter accommodation
Looking for the ultimate winter escape in Byron Bay? Crystalbrook Byron offers the perfect blend of barefoot luxury and rainforest serenity. Nestled within 45 acres of subtropical rainforest, our spacious Treetops and Rainforest Suites are designed for cosy winter mornings and breezy afternoons on the verandah. With a heated pool, indulgent day spa, and forest-fringed walking trails right outside your door, Crystalbrook Byron is the kind of winter accommodation that makes you want to stay a little longer.
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