Byron Bay, NSW 2481

4(17 reviews)

Ranked 14th best suburb by locals in Richmond-Tweed Region, NSW

Great for

  • Gym and fitness
  • Resale or rental value
  • Eating out
  • Schools
  • Neighbourly spirit

Not great for

    No ratings yet

Who lives here?

  • Families With Kids
  • Professionals
  • Singles
  • Retirees
  • Tourists

Reviews of Byron Bay, NSW

"Urban open space Hippie coastal beaches, Great cafes & Restaurants"

This area is more for the new generation of young parents (30's) and young people area. It use to be all the 70's babies hippies and surfers who are now all the old baby boomers generation but now with all the new shack-modern style cafes & bars, coastal up market restaurants, it is becoming a cross between New farm in Brisbane and North Sydney. It is very quaint, pretty modern new-age town with Good open spaces and nice wide beaches and foot paths. The only issue is the drive and roads here that need significant work to accomodate the growth of the new wave of people making this town a place to call home. Understand that the young generation will be the next generation looking after this area and having the neccesary facilities are required to keep them here. It is a very alternative living as there does seem to be alot of anti vaxers here.

Who lives here?

  • Singles
2
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Looking for a home in Byron Bay?

"Spoiled Paradise"

Was a beautiful paradise years ago now expensive crowded little town, be careful you don't get a parking ticket!
If you have a pre vaccine baby or low immune system don't stop here or Northern NSW as there are many anti vaxxers living in this area seemingly supported by the local councils

0
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"The most overpriced overrated place on earth"

Too busy all the time, it has an atmosphere but seriously not worth the price tag, not much there, not close to ANYTHING, hardly any jobs.
It’s designed for people that have so much money and no need of a job.
You’re looking at $900 /week for an old tiny unit.. $1200-$1700 for a small house, WTF FOR?
The restaurants are honestly so overrated, the food is just ok at best, nothing fancy or special..
It has this cheap feel to it.. paying so much to live like a hobo.. if that’s your aim, then go for it.
I used to go there often, but I don’t live there.

1
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Amy Sanderson real estate agent
Amy Sanderson
LJ Hooker Corporate

"Easy going vibe"

If you enjoy relaxing at the beach, slowly looking in shops, choosing the vibe of your eating style, Byron offers it all!
Amy Sanderson, LJ Hooker 0403 851 003 or [email protected]

Who lives here?

  • Singles
  • Families with kids
1
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"READ before considering Byron Bay! Bubble which may lead to REGRESSION"

Moved FROM Byron Bay (near beach and tranquility; couldn't ask for more in life) - TO Melbourne after 5 years. And that's coming from one who during the 4.5 years said "Byron is the best place on earth to live!"

So what would cause one to move AWAY from Byron Bay?

Firstly, you need to know, Byron provides a useful purpose. What that is, only you'll know.

But once that purpose has been fulfilled, you need to MOVE ON. Else it turns into "sense gratification". And living a life of sense gratification yields no growth.

Furthermore, Byron is a small place. Thus it attracts limited niche. Generally (but NOT limited to):

(1) Spiritual types who're looking for "something beyond Material world". Note the word "LOOKING". Basically, 99.9% are seekers, everyone with their own version of "Truth". And generally uninterested in "Worldly affairs". Basically using Spirituality as an escape. This includes "Spirit Festivals" or one of many music Festivals (Bluegrass, Splendor, etc).

(2) Materialistic predisposed - about living (own self-created version) of a healthy, abundant, good, rich, relaxed life. About SUCCESS. But disconnected from "something HIGHER".

Meaning both categories are severely OUT OF BALANCE.

Above is of course is a generalization (as it's unfair to box people up into categories).

Point is: It profits YOU (reader of this) to notice WHEN it's time to MOVE ON. Else one gets trapped in the well-known "Byron Bubble". And what initially started of as PROGRESSION, turns into unsuspecting REGRESSION.

It's NOT a place suitable for lifelong living if your vision is to live a complete, wholesome individual. Consider Byron a chapter of one's life. Every chapter closes, and new opens.

I've seen nearly all. And one thing is for certain: It's NOT a spiritual center of anything.

The spirituality in Byron is grade 1 literally. Same thing in Ubud, Koh phangan. A spiritual zoo with endless options - which result in endless opportunity for distraction. EG: Crystal/sound healing, being buried in ground for 24h, Psychedelics, Meditation of all types, weed experiences, every type of Yoga, Tarrot, Tantra, Neo-Advaita (distorted version of true non-dual wisdom), Buddhism, etc...

TRUE spiritual teachers who can honestly help you - DO NOT live in Byron (exceptions of course). Why? Because they know Byron has small population and is already spiritually influenced with all sorts of irrational ideas.

And NO TRUE GURU WISHES TO TEACH SPIRITUAL CHILDREN with insane ideas. Thus authentic guru's are in normal cities, involved with normal people, engaged in normal "life situations".

Any 25 year old (or younger) on LSD can quack how "We're all ONE", in safe a bubble like Byron. But a truly MATURE character - is living such a vision amidst normal world situations with ordinary down-to-earth people, with everyday problems.
--

This writing comes from extensive experience; not just personal opinion based on shallow perspective. This writer has seen the depth of the over-hyped Byron. And it's honestly JUST ANOTHER PLACE like any other.

Of course, if the resident's thinking is shallow, they'll call Byron Bay: "Best place on earth, Heaven, No location like it, The surf is the best!".

Don't fall for typical one liner comments like "Best place on earth; Beach is awesome; I love it, Chris Hemsworth lives here, place of Celebrities!, etc".

These kinds of comments have no depth, but only motivated by passing "Excited" emotions which come and go. You'd say the same thing to ANY place which emotionally excites you.

Also, it carries a sexual energy in the air. Why? Because it's dominated mostly by innocent youtfulness. So while one receives a daily dose of handsome/attractive beauty... it comes at expense of NO intellectual depth. Just general surface enjoyment of life in one's OWN bubble, which seems to be fine and accepted in the Byron bubble.
--

SUMMARY: I've progressed more in Melbourne in 4 months (in all aspects; financial, spiritual, social, health) - then have in Byron Bay for 4.5 years. Ironically, living in Byron for 5 years only helped me to appreciate everything more then I could've - if didn't live in Byron. This is the irony. :-)

You need to KEEP MOVING ON in life. Don't let comfortable circle of friends and good lifestyle be an excuse to postpone or stagnate your HIGHEST purpose in life - whatever that purpose may be for you.

KEEP MOVING ON as soon as you feel is right to do so.

3
amandaj24

Thank you so much for your very raw, honest, and genuine comment! It's just the kind of review I wanted to find on here! I resonated alot with your perspective. Like you, I am also someone very deeply connected to their journey here, have been on a self discovery quest, and always wanted to find an environment for my self and my family to thrive in, grow in and be around some like minded people. A few years ago I did do my research and looked into Byron Bay for a potential place to live long term, but in that research Idiscovered pretty much exactly what you have described above, and that is not what I wanted for me and my kids. I am in a chapter at the moment of growth, but I know in my heart that the place where we live in now is only a chapter, and when we feel it's right we will be moving on too. I would really like to know any feedback you have of Melbourne and its surroundings. Intellectual, cultural, safe wise, expense wise, affordability, the likes. I have been drawn to Melbourne for a while now so I would love to know more. Any information you have would be greatly appreciated. Warm regards.

harryw1

We are welcome. It's now been 4 years since moving to Mel from BBay. Reading my original write-up, plus 4 years wiser with greater level of discernment and empathy, the opinion stands exactly as original. Regarding Mel's surroundings, first thing I did moving here is tried to replicate Byron's greenery. Concrete jungle, no matter which city, doesn't click with me, plus has erratic/unsettled energy in the air, plus risk of selfish minds with loud cars/music. Thus I suggest seeking areas with decent greenery; mostly being in East Mel. EG Templestowe/Eltham (family friendly places; quiet, safe, spacious). I am near Doncaster. Only definite downside is gloomy weather. My body unfortunately is fatigued/sniffly between gloomy May-Oct; which decreases productivity that otherwise would be available in warm areas like Brisbane, Gold Coast. So weather is only genuine condition that would unfortunately force this person to move north (but certainly not to Byron), as I truly miss being in shorts and going out on a bicycle almost anytime (as did in Byron). Summary: Friends, rational, intelligence = pluses for Mel. Weather = major minus.

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Rentals in Byron Bay

"Small Friendly Surfing Town"

Byron Bay has some of the most beautiful beaches in the world and just a 15 minute drive takes you out into the magnificent hinterland where you will find hidden water falls, wildlife and just absolute breath taking sights! There is such a vast range of people in Byron Bay which creates something very special for the onlookers. Its a friendly hippy town with great surf, a unique range of fabulous food and a friendly atmosphere welcoming all that visit.

Great for

  • Tropical weather
  • Hinterland beauty minutes from the CBD
  • Friendly locals
  • Great beach culture
  • Clean ocean water and beautiful scenery
  • Fantastic cafe's and restaurants

Not great for

  • Tourists flooding the city at certain times of year

Who lives here?

  • Professionals
  • Families with kids
  • Retirees
  • Tourists
  • Students
  • Country Lovers
  • Beach Lovers
1
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"Beautiful Place to Live and Travel"

Byron Bay located in Northern New South Wales is a beautiful and unique beach-side township with character and friendly locals. The town has all of the necessities, chain retail stores, fantastic restaurants and cafe's and a vibrant atmosphere. Traffic congestion can be an issue during the summer, however, it is tolerable. There are a variety of lovely coastal townships on the Northern New South Wales Coast surrounding Byron Bay which are great to explore as well. For those that enjoy the hustle and bustle of the city, the Gold Coast and Brisbane can be easily accessed within 1-2 hours driving distance from Byron Bay for shopping malls and incredible retail experiences.

Great for

  • Fantastic cafe's and restaurants
  • Friendly locals
  • Great beach culture
  • Clean ocean water and beautiful scenery

Not great for

  • Tourists flooding the city at certain times of year
  • Council decisions made by high value property owners

Who lives here?

  • Retirees
  • Tourists
  • Country Lovers
  • Beach Lovers
0
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"Something for everyone"

What a fantastic destination for the family holiday makers, with beach and shops at your doorstep there is a little something for all ages to enjoy.

Great for

  • Friendly locals
  • Great beach culture
  • Clean ocean water and beautiful scenery

Not great for

  • Footpaths could use a good scrub
  • Tourists flooding the city at certain times of year

Who lives here?

  • Professionals
  • Singles
  • Families with kids
  • Retirees
  • Tourists
  • LGBT+
  • Hipsters
  • Students
  • Trendy & Stylish
  • Beach Lovers
0
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Darren McCoy real estate agent
Darren McCoy
Unknown Real Estate Agency VIC

"Good place to have kids, get to go to the #beach"

Byron Bay is a great place to raise your kids, but once thats done get back to #southbank

Great for

  • Friendly locals
  • Great beach culture
  • Clean ocean water and beautiful scenery

Not great for

  • Council decisions made by high value property owners
  • Tourists flooding the city at certain times of year
  • When it rains it really rains

Who lives here?

  • Professionals
  • Singles
  • Families with kids
  • Retirees
  • Tourists
  • LGBT+
  • Hipsters
  • Students
  • Country Lovers
  • Trendy & Stylish
  • Beach Lovers
0
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Michael Gudgeon real estate agent
Michael Gudgeon
Ray White Byron Bay

"I've lived in Byron for 30 years and I love it."

Sure the traffic gets annoying at times but on a bad day it takes 15 minutes to work and my kids walk 3 minutes to the bus stop. I probably should ride a bike to work but need to drive clients around. Great area for fishing, mountain biking , surfing , kiting , running , swimming , diving, walking, dining, art ..... A typical day can be an early surf or ride - work - walk down the beach for a quick swim at lunchtime - work then hang out down the beach with family and friends after work ... What's there not to like? If you like live music the quality of free gigs around is unbelievable. Generally I think the community is pretty accepting of other people . I'm raising a young family in Suffolk and the choice of schools and after school activities is fantastic, Favourite time of year are those crisp warmish days of April / May or Oct and Nov.

Great for

  • Clean ocean water and beautiful scenery
  • Friendly locals
  • Great beach culture

Not great for

  • When it rains it really rains

Who lives here?

  • Professionals
  • Families with kids
  • Retirees
  • Tourists
  • Country Lovers
  • Beach Lovers
2
MarcusPearce
MarcusPearce

Great read Michael :) We are moving up to Byron in April from Victoria and it's great to read what locals say about the area. Tourists obviously love Byron but to hear the locals rave about it is even better. We can't wait!

manub

Hi there! We are planning to move to Byron. I would liketo hear about primary schools, which ones are the best and why in your opnion?! Thanks!

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"A great coastal town, with an interesting mix of people"

Great for

  • Great beach culture
  • Friendly locals

Not great for

  • Tourists flooding the city at certain times of year

Who lives here?

  • Professionals
  • Singles
  • Tourists
  • LGBT+
  • Country Lovers
  • Beach Lovers
1
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"GRRREEEATTTT!"

Byron is awesome if you dont know about it or have not been...then...where have you been? To live there would be a dream the place is great!

Best beaches in the world!

Who lives here?

  • Professionals
  • Singles
  • Families with kids
  • Retirees
  • Tourists
  • LGBT+
  • Hipsters
  • Students
  • Country Lovers
  • Trendy & Stylish
  • Beach Lovers
0
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"How Far East Can You Go?"

Well it's about as far East on main land Australia as you can go and up at the Light House is it there isn't any place further East, from the Light House the views of the surrounding country side is just fantastic and the beach here don't look half bad either, unfortunately I didn't have the time to check it out, just a quick look around and gone.

Who lives here?

  • Families with kids
0
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"Best place to live in the world?"

Byron Bay is literally in my top 5 places to live in the entire world. When i was growing up i spent some time living in Byron and was lucky enough to call it home for a time.

Byron Bay is a trendy combination of new age hippies, surfies and super rich Australians who come to enjoy the great relaxed lifestyle the Northern River has to offer.

The beaches in Byron Bay are gorgeous and generally there is always somewhere in town where you can catch a wave. Some of byrons beaches are Main Beach, Wategoes, Belogil and Tallows.

Byron Bay is a great please to live an alternate lifestyle have great escape and get fit swimming, running, walking or maybe even doing some Bikram yoga in Belongil Byron Bay.

Lots to offer to much to list internationally renowned you just cannot miss this unique hot spot!

Who lives here?

  • Professionals
  • Singles
  • Families with kids
  • Retirees
0
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"A balmy seaside town, relaxed living with style"

Beautiful Byron Bay! It is a laidback town situated 750 km north of Sydney and around 150 km from Brisbane, and I would love to live here one day.

The main beach has rugged surf and strong currents, and there are a number of good surf spots around the region. It is all incredibly picturesque.

Its main street has a very relaxed feel, with good coffee, organic food and some stores offering some really unique and stylish things. There is the Beach Hotel, up on the Esplanade by the foreshore, and a number of other restaurants around the place.

Tucked up behind the town itself is the hinterland - the perfect spot to escape from the tourist hub-bub and crowds which flock here throughout the year.

Who lives here?

  • Professionals
  • Singles
  • Families with kids
  • Retirees
0
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"Byron Bay- A place you will return to."

Byron Bay is becoming more and more popular both for tourists and those wishing to escape the city life and move somewhere peaceful. Located on the far north coast of NSW the climate is warm and the beaches are clean and inviting. Cape Byron is Australia’s most easterly point and from the lighthouse you have amazing views and can often see dolphins and whales as they make their way up and down the coast. Byron Bay has plenty of accommodation options but the summer season can get very busy especially during school holidays so it pays to book well in advance. Food and entertain is plentiful and there are plenty of things to do such as surfing, horse riding, kayaking, hang gliding, mountain biking or visiting the markets and some of the smaller towns in the hinterland. Bryon Bay is the kind of place where you will return to many times.

Who lives here?

  • Professionals
  • Singles
  • Families with kids
  • Retirees
0
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