“Cheer up, chill out, slow down” is the mantra you will embody as you follow the Par Olive Guide to a weekend in Byron Bay.
Byron bay is known for its stunning beaches, killer surf breaks and loving hospitality. So, if you have a penchant for a golden tan, and want to achieve a chic surf look that will rival Kate Hudson in Fools Gold, we have just the list for you. From our favourite foodie finds to luxurious spas, infrared saunas, the best little beaches- we have you covered!
See below our tip tips for a luxurious weekend in Byron Bay:
FRIDAY:
Arrive in Byron Bay late afternoon and check into the stylish Victorias at Wategos. Victoria’s is a 5 star Tuscan Style guesthouse nestled into the exclusive oceanfront valley of Wategos, situated just under the famous Cape Byron Lighthouse. Stroll down to Wategos Beach for an ocean dip or even borrow one of the surfboards available to all guests.
Following a relaxing surf or dip in the ocean, stroll back to your hotel and prepare for dinner. Walk into the town centre (approximately 40 minutes) along the coastline from Wategos to St Elmo. A classic Byron Bay restaurant renowned for their extensive wine list, tapas and delicious sharing plates.
SATURDAY:
Byron Bay is a town known for its healthy, active and relaxed lifestyle. Join the locals for their morning sweat session whether that may be surfing at Tallow Beach, or perhaps the walk from Main Beach up to the Lighthouse. If a tough workout if more your speed, head to Tallow beach to take things up a notch. Tallow beach is a 6.5 kilometre stretch and is one of the most spectacular beaches in the region. Enjoy a long walk on the sand or some soft sand sprints if you mean serious business.
Refuel time! Following your workout head to Bayleaf Cafe for a coconut cold brew coffee and the breakfast greens- a mix of chopped raw broccoli, shredded kale, avocado, fresh chilli, buckwheat kernels, fresh herbs, pistachio nuts and poached eggs- a true P/O favourite.
Next, head to the industrial warehouse district to hit some of the best locally owned boutiques. Yoli and Otis is a Byron classic known for their super chic and timeless linen pieces. The Mctavish Surf shop offers classic surf boards and equipment, and St Agni also have beautifully bespoke leather sandals that are bound to become your Summer staples. Once back in town, head to Rowie for a the perfect summer dress or jumpsuit.
Following some retail therapy, unwind and detoxify at the new Nimbus and Co branch in Byron Bay. These infrared saunas are in high demand in Bondi Beach for a reason. These state of the art infrared saunas are chic and incredibly comfortable, but also offer serious health benefits to boot.
Infrared saunas are proven to aid in the bodies detoxification, enabling trapped toxins in the skin to be released through perspiration. Skin health and congestion build up is also improved through infrared saunas by increasing blood flow and releasing toxins held in the skin, in addition helping to reduce pain and stress in the body. Nimbus and Co also takes things up a notch with the inclusion of a screen in each sauna. This allows you to relax in your private sauna and catch up on the latest Netflix episode you’ve missed, or simply stream your favourite tunes through Spotify to unwind and indulge in some you time.
Now we have you detoxified- lets get a little deeper. Just down the road from Nimbus and Co you will find Comma- the newest spa to launch into Byron Bay with modern Australian techniques in a minimalist setting consisting of natural and local textures and furnishings. The owner Susie has created a space that is unlike any other experience. This holistic practice demonstrates the healing power of touch in a neutral and chic setting that is both warm and inviting. The interiors consist of soft white linens and neutral cane furnishings- an interior lovers delight.
Pro Tip: Book the Equilibrium Massage. As beauty editors, its our job to trial the newest treatments on offer, but we are putting it out there- this is one of the top 3 massages in Australia. The Equilibrium massage unlocks shoulder tension, restores posture and leaves you feeling balanced and completely aligned. If you find yourself sitting at a computer day in day out- this is the treatment for you. Take some time out to free your headspace and dissipate stress at Comma- we promise this welcoming space will instantly feel like your home away from home.
Its time to lunch! The Farm is Byron Bay’s field to fork restaurant that features dreamy sunflower fields, livestock and vegetable patches you could serious spend hours wandering through. Enjoy slow cooked lamb overlooking the long stretches of farm land with live music and warm, friendly staff.
Pro tip: ensure you check out the food shop for the best local dark chocolate, honey and healthy snacks for your trip home!
It is our Par Olive belief that every city guide should feature a life changing restaurant- Fleet is just that. The maximum they can seat at any one time is 15, and bookings are essential. Fleet is a blink and you’ll miss it hole in the wall with clean, minimal Danish pinewood finishings.
The produce is all locally sourced, be it usually from the farmer’s market at Mullumbimby. They offer in house home-cultured butter, and dishes like smoked mullet, crispy skin potato and dill- each dish is a winning symphony of taste bud explosions and exquisite textures. Fleet is only open Thursday to Sunday, so we recommend crossing your fingers and booking as far in advance as possible.
SUNDAY:
Enjoy a light sleep in and a soft start to your Sunday with vinyasa yoga at Creatures. Not quite an expert in all things yoga? Don’t worry, neither are we, but after this class we promise you will feel completely balanced and restored. Suitable for all levels and the ultimate balance of a relaxing, yet challenging practice.
What would a weekend away be if we didn’t leave on a high? Enjoy one last dip at Wategos and stroll over to Rae’s for a delectable and memorable lunch. With a menu featuring Sydney Rock Oysters and Moreton Bay Bug linguine, there is simply no better way to end a weekend in our book. Rae’s is a top destination for all in-the-know, so we recommend booking in advance and requesting one of the front tables for relaxing ocean views and people watching.
Words: Olivia Boyd-Smith
