LOCAL’S GUIDE: Best Beaches in Byron Bay

When the wind is blowing West to South West head to Belongil or North Belongil Beach. 

Belongil Beach is a long, wide, and uncrowded beach located just north of Main Beach popular for surfing, swimming, fishing and dogs! This is a dog-friendly beach so expect lots of furry friends bouncing around in the waves and on the shore. beach has a relaxed and laid-back vibe, great for young families.

North Belongil is a quieter and more secluded section of the beach, accessible via a short walk through the nature reserve. It is a great spot for a peaceful walk or a picnic. It’s also a nudist beach making it ideal for those wanting to even out their tan lines.

When the wind is blowing South West head to The Pass at Clarkes Beach

The Pass is a popular surf spot located at the eastern end of Clarkes Beach. It is known for its long, peeling waves and is a firm favorite for the more experienced surfers.

Home to Fisherman’s Lookout, a large wooden structure with a viewing platform, from the top you can admire the ocean life and surfers as they enjoy the water below.

Clarkes Beach itself is a wide, sheltered beach that is perfect for swimming and sunbathing. It also has plenty of amenities, including showers, toilets and The Beach Café where you can grab a take away snack or drink. During low tide, if you turn right towards the rocks you’ll find a bevy of beautiful rock pools. There are often natural paddling pools during the summer creating a lagoon like feel away from the waves.

When the wind is blowing East to South East head to Wategos (and Raes) 

Byron’s most famous beach, Wategos, is a small yet stunning stretch of sand located at the eastern end of Cape Byron. It is a popular spot for swimming, surfing, picnicking and photoshoots. Backed by lush vegetation with gorgeous views of the surrounding coastline it’s easy to spend an entire day here. When you’re done getting salty and sandy, we highly recommend enjoying a cocktail and oysters on Raes Terrace.

When the wind is blowing West head to Tallows and for North West to Northerly winds head to Cozy Corner 

Tallows Beach is a long, wild, and undeveloped beach located south of Cape Byron. While the vast majority of the beach can get a little wild, Cozy Corner is a sheltered cove located at the southern end. On a windy day, you’ll find This nook packed full of families and sun worshipers.

When the wind is blowing West head to Whites Beach

While Whites Beach can be a little tricky to get to it’s well worth the effort. To start with, the parking situation can be a touch dicey thanks to the narrow dirt road and minimal parking spaces. Once you have secured a safe space to leave your car (it’s not uncommon to park outside of the allocated parking area) you’ll need to carry your beach gear down a rocky staircase surrounded by lush subtropical rainforest. But about halfway down you’ll be celebrated with a panoramic view of the idyllic beach and you’ll know you’ve made the right choice! White sand and crisp clear water are your reward for the trek down the steep stairs. Due to the ‘hard to get to’ nature of this beach we recommend taking an esky and snacks !

Or take the guess work out and head to the Bower Pool instead

The Bower’s award-winning magnesium pool is perfect for relieving stress, soothing sore muscles and having good old fashion fun in the sun. Surrounded by lush tropical vegetation you’ll find this sheltered Byron Bay oasis the perfect retreat, complete with outdoor shower, a Well-stocked bar and poolside service.

The natural minerals provide an elevated swimming experience thanks to the softer, silkier, clearer chemical-free water that is gentler on both your hair and skin, as well as the environment. The pool’s temperature is continually adjusted to ensure the best swimming experience possible 365 days of the year. The Bower is the perfect luxury beachfront accommodation.