The far north-eastern coast of NSW, Australia, boasts many little pockets of paradise. Bordered by rich, green hinterland to one side and the crystal blue waters of the South Pacific Ocean on the other, it is a region which boasts a multitude of spots to immerse yourself in the big blue.
Whether it’s for photography or relaxation, choosing the right beach for a day out in the sun can be the biggest choice you need to make when in holiday mode.
Below is my guide to five of the area's best beaches with a focus on the much loved destination of Byron Bay – based on a lifetime of research and love of the ocean! In no particular order here we have it:
Byron Bay's Best Beaches
1. The Pass
Situated between Clarkes Beach and Wategos, The Pass consistently serves up long, peeling, fun surfable waves. With a beach that stretches on and on there’s plenty of room, some natural shade under the pandanas trees and some awesome rock pools for the kids. For those that love to explore the deep blue, there’s some great reefs not too far off shore. These are inhabited by plenty of green sea turtles amongst other friendly sea creatures – very photo worthy.
2. Wategos
Wategos | Byron Bay
Just around the headland you’ll find Wategos Beach. This picturesque pocket of goodness is tucked just below Cape Byron Lighthouse and comes complete with those holiday vibes. The perfect place to spend a lazy afternoon or have a refreshing dip mid way along the popular Lighthouse walk.
3. Whites Beach and Brays Beach
Whites Beach | Byron Bay
Off the beaten track, Whites Beach and Brays Beach are relatively isolated gems nestled within Broken Head Nature Reserve. The location of the two adjoining beaches in combination with the steep descent to reach them have meant they have remained pretty quiet over the years. Awesome waves and few people give it the feel of seclusion. It’s sub tropical green surrounds, white sands and clear waves make it feel like an island paradise.
4. The Wreck and Belongil Beach
Located just near the Main Beach carpark the stretch of beach which encompasses The Wreck up to Belongil Beach is great for a number of reasons. Its proximity to town means it’s easily accessible by foot, there’s a small surf break and good snorkelling too along the old ship wreck of the SS Wollongbar. The location also sees epic sunsets against the backdrop of iconic Mt Warning – a winning combination which makes it a popular spot and places this stretch of sand on my list of Byron’s best beaches.
5. The Point - Lennox Head
Whilst technically not in Byron Bay, I have to include one of my all time favourite beaches and breaks – The Point. 15 minutes south of Byron in the increasingly popular surf town of Lennox Head, this location isn’t suitable for swimming but there’s a fantastic headland walk with an unbeatable lookout at the top, and as a recognised surfing reserve The Point consistently delivers. If you’re keen for a dip, Lennox Head’s Seven Mile Beach can give you your fix.
