Byron Bay
Byron Bay operated as a whaling station in the past, however it has since become a widely popular holiday destination renowned for its surfing beaches, lush rainforest surrounds and bountiful countryside. Cape Byron is Australia's most easterly point and is located on the far north coast of New South Wales.
Byron Bay can be easily found off the Pacific Highway 175 km south of Brisbane or 800km north of Sydney. Many visitors decide to drive to Byron Bay after visiting the Gold Coast as it is only a short 40 minute drive south. The Byron Bay area makes an ideal holiday destination for travellers in campervan rentals as it is laid back, has great beaches, and is a favourite with tourists.
The town is partially protected from the elements by Cape Byron, a rocky headland that rises 100m above sea level and which is Australia's most easterly point. The headland is home to the Byron Lighthouse, built in 1901, which is an extremely important warning beacon for ships to this day. Its light reaches 40km out to sea. Visitors are able to follow a walking trail all the way to the tip of the cape. It is a short walk from the camping ground to the headland and we strongly recommend leaving the comfort of your campervan hire Australia vehicle to check out the amazing view.
The stunning views from the headland make this a popular destination with first time visitors. Adrenaline seekers use a purpose built ramp on the southern side of the cape as a launch point for hang gliding. Nature lovers flock to the headland in July and again in September to watch the migration of the humpback whales.
However a short drive up or down the coast in your campervan rental and you will find a less crowded spot for watching these majestic animals on their long journey.
Scuba divers rave about Byron Bay for the marine park at Julia Rocks. Conveniently situated near the main beach the water conditions are an ideal blend of tropical and temperate currents. The waters around Byron Bay are home to an amazingly diverse range of fish species and marine creatures.
Some like to view the marine life, whereas others like to sample how they taste. If you are a keen fisherman the Byron Bay area is a great place to cast your line and try your luck. The best part about fishing in Byron Bay on a motorhome hire holiday is that you can prepare a home-style meal using the fully equipped kitchen facilities.
The beaches of Byron Bay are one of the best loved features of the area. There are long stretches of white sandy beaches as well as many rocky headlands that attract large numbers of anglers. The surf conditions around the area are world class with many claiming that they are the best beaches in the state. With its mechanical point breaks, regular beach breaks and a decent swell all year round the area has produced a large number of surfing champions over the years. Supporting these surfers is a dedicated and highly respected group of surfboard designers and manufacturers who, through constant innovation and development are among the world's best artisans. Surf beaches worth looking out for include the following :
- The Wreck 1-4 ft
- The Pass 1-6 ft
- Wategoes Beach 1-3 ft
- Cosy Corner 1-6 ft
Byron Bay is valued by visitors for its relaxed atmosphere and alternative way of life. The town reflects this in its diverse range of galleries, boutiques, and new age shops. It is also reflected in the local community which has a strong environmental and social conscience. Locals are proud of the fact that their town has no McDonalds and no high rise developments. Campervan hire travellers will find themselves welcomed in town as the locals embrace visitors but are not always supportive of the continued development of their pristine natural surroundings.
Visitors to Byron Bay are well catered for during their stay in town with many fine restaurants, bars, clubs, live music venues and a vibrant local music scene with live music on display every night of the week. The main street of Byron is close to the campgrounds so you will find it a short stroll back to the comfort of your motorhome rental vehicle.
A diverse range of people visit Byron Bay, from backpackers through to international movie stars. They are all catered for with a wide range of accommodation options. There are plenty of low cost hostels, as well as holiday house rentals, apartments, and motels.
