Here we are in beautiful Byron Bay; a mecca for surfers, backpackers, artists, writers, musicians, holiday makers, retirees … the list goes on … Byron offers something for all of us. It definitely has a magical reputation and I have to admit, the 3 holidays we’ve spent here have been pretty special. Eight year’s ago we spent an idyllic week during the annual Bluesfest with three other families. Great memories of family fun, frolicking in the mud to the beat of many different drums, literally. The image below shows the daughters of our families and their smiles say it all.
Byron Bay is located 770 km north of Sydney and 164 km south of Brisbane along the Pacific Highway. Byron Bay was named by Captain James Cook as he sailed past in May 1770 in honour of a fellow sailor, Vice-Admiral John Byron. ‘Foul Weather Jack’ as he was nicknamed, was the grandfather of the famous 19th century English poet, Lord Byron. Cape Byron is the most easterly point of the Australian mainland, 153° 39´ east.
Long before Byron Bay became a playground and holiday destination it was a working man’s town, but times change, factories close and towns evolve. Byron has a strong beach and alternative lifestyle culture, different to the bling of the Gold Coast a bit further north. One I much prefer but that’s just personal taste.
The middle of winter in Byron and there’s sunshine and surf with a forecast of 22 degrees celcius (71 F).
Unlike previous visits, we chose to stay on the southern outskirts of Byron Bay at Suffolk Park. If you’re looking to escape the crowds during holiday season, this is the place for you. The Suffolk Beachfront Holiday Park is dog friendly (we have our Marley) and whilst it’s not the most modern park around, it’s well maintained and next to beautiful Tallow Beach which stretches south from Cape Byron for 7 kilometres. Just a short walk from the park is a great little shopping precinct with a supermarket, amazing cafe/bakery, hotel and another great little cafe called Tully’s.
Tallow Beach
Byron is also a great base for exploring the beautiful and interesting hinterland towns such as the hippie capital of Australia, Nimbin and picturesque town of Bangalow
It’s been great Byron! Until next time…
Always,
Annie xxx
This bush turkey liked to hang around our van each morning in case there were any scraps from breakfast!
