10 Suburbs around Byron Bay to Visit
1. Suffolk Park:
Amongst the 10 suburbs around byron bay, Suffolk Park deserves a special mention! Embrace a laid-back vibe at Suffolk Park, a chilled-out coastal suburb just south of Byron Bay. Soak up the sun on Tallow Beach, a long stretch of pristine sand perfect for swimming, surfing, and soaking in the stunning views. Grab a bite at The Wreck restaurant, housed in a charmingly ramshackle building with ocean views, or explore the Suffolk Park Bakery for delicious treats.
History of Suffolk Park:
Imagine a sleepy coast, untouched, just dunes and a long, golden beach. That was Suffolk Park, named after a kind landowner, Mr. Suffolk, back in the early 1900s. People weren’t much interested in sandy feet then, so it stayed quiet.
Things changed in the 1970s. Surfers discovered Tallow Beach, waves perfect for riding. Houses started popping up, the families drawn by the sun and sand. Soon, it was no longer a secret, growing from a handful of shacks to a bustling beach town.
Today, Suffolk Park is a mix of locals and newcomers, enjoying laid-back beach life. You’ll find surfers catching waves, kids building sandcastles, and maybe even spot a koala in the gum trees. It’s a story of sun, sand, and a little bit of growing up, all in just 100 years.
2. Broken Head:
Escape the crowds and find serenity at Broken Head, a tiny village nestled amongst lush rainforests and dramatic cliffs. Hike the scenic walking trail around the headland for breathtaking ocean vistas, or explore the secluded Kings Beach, accessible only by foot or boat. Refuel at The Broken Head Hotel, a rustic pub with a beer garden overlooking the Pacific.
Before Time:
Long ago, Aboriginal people called this land home. They named the rocky headland “Tallow Beach,” and its story became woven with theirs.
Change of Hands:
- European settlers arrived in the 1800s, attracted by timber and farming. The headland got a new name: “Broken Head,” perhaps for its jagged cliffs.
Change of Hands:
European settlers arrived in the 1800s, attracted by timber and farming. The headland got a new name: “Broken Head,” perhaps for its jagged cliffs.
Nature’s Playground:
In the 1900s, people discovered the magic of the area. Surfers rode the waves, families picnicked on the beach, and trails beckoned through lush rainforests, waves, and families picnicked on the beach, and trails beckoned through the lush rainforest.
Aboriginal Connection:
The Arakwal people’s story never left. In 2009, they regained custodianship of the Broken Head Holiday Park, ensuring their connection to the land continues.
Today and Beyond:
Broken Head now welcomes thousands each year. They hike, swim, camp, and learn about the rich history. It’s a place where nature’s beauty thrives alongside a deep cultural echo.
3. Bangalow: From Timber Town to Trendy Village
Step back in time to the quaint village of Bangalow, where charming 19th-century buildings adorned with verandas house a treasure trove of independent shops and cafes. Browse artisanal wares at The Byron Hinterland Store, indulge in a sweet treat at Bangalow Sweet Co., or savor a farm-to-table meal at The Pocket. Don’t miss the vibrant Bangalow Farmers Market every Saturday morning for fresh produce and local finds.
Early Days:
Before tourists and trendy cafes, Bangalow was a humble timber town in the 1840s. Woodcutters camped by Byron Creek, chopping down trees for houses and ships. Slowly, houses and shops popped up, and by the 1880s, Bangalow was born.
Name Game:
Back then, they called it “Bangaloe.” Maybe for the nearby hills or the palm trees, some say it comes from the Aboriginal word “Bangalla.” Whatever it meant, the spelling changed to “Bangalow” in 1907, and it stuck.
Ups and Downs:
Bangalow wasn’t always smooth sailing. Fires scorched the town in 1907, 1911, and 1930, and floods caused trouble in 1926 and 1946. But Bangalow bounced back, rebuilding with brick instead of wood after the last fire.
Modern Magic Today, Bangalow is a charming village. Cafes line the main street, tempting you with coffee and delicious food. Boutique shops offer unique finds, and the monthly market buzzes with life. It’s still close to Byron Bay’s excitement, but Bangalow keeps its own laid-back pace, a peaceful haven in the Northern Rivers.
4. Ewingsdale: From Timber Town to Quirky Gem
Unwind in the leafy serenity of Ewingsdale, a peaceful suburb nestled on the foothills of the Byron Hinterland. Explore the lush surroundings on horseback at Byron Bay Horse Riding, discover local artworks at Ewingsdale Gallery, or indulge in a pampering treatment at The Spa at Byron. For a taste of local fare, head to Harvest Restaurant, where sustainable ingredients take center stage. If you need to book a transfer, visit our transfers page.
Early Days (1800s):
Named after Surveyor Thomas Ewing, who explored the area in the 1870s.
Thick rainforests filled the land, perfect for logging. Timber towns like Doon Doon boomed, with bullock wagons hauling wood.
Life was tough, but the community spirit ran strong.
Changing Times (1900s):
The timber boom faded, and farms and dairies took over. Cows grazed on green hills, milk trucks clattered down dusty roads.
The 1960s brought hippies and surfers, drawn by untouched beaches and laid-back vibes. The “alternative” spirit was born.
5. Lennox Head: From Aboriginal Haven to Surfers’ Paradise
Embrace the vibrant surf culture at Lennox Head, a coastal haven renowned for its world-class waves. Catch a lesson or hone your skills at Seven Mile Beach, paddle out alongside dolphins in Lennox Creek, or simply relax on the sand and watch the skilled surfers carve up the waves. Refuel with a burger and beer at The Terrace Bar, or enjoy a beachfront feast at The Beach Byron Bay.
Before the Boats (Ancient Times):
Nyangbal people lived here for thousands of years, fishing, hunting, and worshipping the spirits of the land.
Rock paintings on Seven Mile Beach whispered secrets of their lives.
First Settlers (1800s):
Captain named it after his friend, the Duke of Lennox, in 1828.
Timber cutters arrived, leaving scars on the land as they chopped down giant cedar trees.
Slow Beginnings (Early 1900s):
Few people lived here. Fishing, farming, and quiet life by the lake.
1922 changed things – weekenders built houses, drawn by the beauty of Seven Mile Beach.
Surfing Boom (1960s – Present): ♀️
Surfers discovered pumping waves, turning Lennox Head into a surfing mecca.
Cafes, shops, and surf schools popped up, catering to the laid-back beach crowd.
Today’s Lennox:
World-class waves, chilled vibe, and stunning natural beauty.
Yoga on the beach, dolphin watching on the river, art galleries, and fresh local markets.
Lennox Head remains a special place, where ancient stories mingle with modern life, all woven together by the rhythm of the ocean.
6. Brunswick Heads:
Discover the hidden gem of Brunswick Heads, a picturesque village where the Brunswick River meets the Pacific Ocean. Kayak through the tranquil waterways, explore the Brunswick Heads Nature Reserve, or simply relax on the banks of the river and soak in the natural beauty. Grab a coffee and a pastry at The Brunswick Heads Bakehouse, or savor a seafood feast at The Terrace by the River.
7. Mullumbimby:
Immerse yourself in the bohemian spirit of Mullumbimby, a haven for alternative lifestyles and creative expression. Browse the colorful stalls at the Mullumbimby Markets, explore the quirky shops on Mullumbimby Lane, or catch a live music session at one of the many cafes and bars. Fuel up with a vegan burger at The Pocket or a healthy bowl at Nourish Espresso. Mullumbimby is perhaps our favourite of all the 10 suburbs around byron bay to visit.
8. Possum Creek:
Escape the hustle and bustle at Possum Creek, a tiny village nestled amidst rolling hills and lush greenery. Hike through the Possum Creek State Forest, take a dip in the refreshing Possum Creek waterfalls, or simply relax on the verandas of Possum Creek Lodge and soak in the serenity. Indulge in a homemade pie at Possum Creek Cafe, or enjoy a farm-to-table meal at The Possum Creek Restaurant
9. Billinudgel:
Experience the rural charm of Billinudgel, a tranquil village surrounded by farmland and rainforest. Wander through the Billinudgel State Forest, explore the Billinudgel Nature Reserve, or visit the historic Billinudgel Homestead, a testament to the area’s early farming days. Sample the local produce at the Billinudgel Farmers Market, or enjoy a casual meal at The Billinudgel Hotel
10. The Pocket:
Embrace eco-conscious living at The Pocket, a sustainable community tucked away in the Byron Hinterland. Explore the lush rainforest on a guided bushwalking tour, learn about sustainable practices at The Pocket Retreat, or simply relax in the peaceful surroundings. Savor a farm-to-table meal at The Pocket Restaurant, or grab a coffee and a snack at The Pocket Cafe. The Pocket is the most eco friendly region amongst the 10 suburbs around byron bay.
