WHAT TO DO IN OUR TYPICALLY SUN-DRENCHED PARADISE WHEN THE WEATHER WON’T PLAY NICE? WE GIVE YOU SIX OF THE BEST RAINY DAY IDEAS FOR WHAT TO DO IN BYRON BAY WHEN IT’S WET AND STEAMY.
So you’ve saved up your annual leave, booked a beachside apartment, packed your swimmers (and not much else) and even organised a private car transfer from the airport to ensure a hassle-free arrival. And then it starts to rain. Whaaaat? This was NOT in the brochure!
Cheer up, slow down, chill out – as the unofficial Byron tagline suggests – we’ve compiled six of the best rainy day things to do in the Bay.
GO SHOPPING
Well, why not? Byron has a vibrant retail culture, with loads of local brands that are beloved around the globe, including fashion labels Spell & The Gypsy Collective, Rowie, Afends, Auguste the Label and Also check out some of the vintage surf shops.
There are some shops that blend lifestyle/interiors with fashion, such as Ahoy Trader, Hendrix & Harlow, Hope & May and for those who have some serious dollars to drop, there’s Island Luxe Tribe. If you’re in the market for gifts, kids’ decor or amazing prints, visit Love Mae‘s HQ and studio or Pop & Scott in the Byron Industrial Estate.
CATCH A TRAIN
Maybe not exciting if you’re from the city and commute by rail everyday, but this is a train ride with a difference. The world’s first solar-powered train (built in 1949) is now back in operation thanks to The Byron Bay Railroad Company.
The vintage beauty goes between the town’s centre to North Beach station at Sunrise (near Elements of Byron Resort). With a return shuttle on the hour, seven days a week, it’s a great way to see some countryside – have a quick cocktail at Elements and hop back on for the return 10-minute ride.
GO TO THE MOVIES
Newly renovated Palace Byron Bay cinema complex is a treat located in the heart of Jonson Street. The intimate cinemas screen everything from international blockbusters to art-house eye candy.
And don’t forget the Byron Bay Brewery complex, you can pop in after the movie for locally brewed craft beer and delicious food.
TAKE A GIN DISTILLERY TOUR
The Cape Byron Distillery, located on the Brook’s family macadamia orchard in the Byron hinterland, is the home of the award-winning Brookie’s Gin, a locally loved drop. On Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, the passionate gin makers operate Distillery Tours and Tastings at the cellar door.
You are taken through the process of sourcing botanicals from the surrounding rainforest and sharing how the spirit is produced and perfected – and obviously you get to throw back a few gins as part of the tour.
GET PAMPERED
One thing Byron is not short on is quality massage therapists, healers, spas and self-help gurus. Looking for Equine Assisted Psychotherapy, Sand Therapy or Intimacy Coaching? Yep, you can find it all here!
Whether you’re in the mood for muscle magic or just a facial, you’ll find a qualified therapist to suit. TripAdvisor’s 10 Best Spas & Wellness Centres in Byron Bay list is comprehensive and review-driven, or head to the locally curated Byron Body & Soul Guide.
FLY ON A TRAPEZE
Byron Circus Arts, located in the Byron Industrial Estate a few minutes out of the town centre, offers 90-minute high-flying trapeze classes for all levels of ability with no previous experience required. Beginning on the low practice bar, you are taught basic trapeze positions. In the safety of a harness, you will then progress to the 10m flying trapeze ready for your first swing. Weeeeeee!
