Once an unspoilt backwater on the State's north coast, Byron Bay is now a mix of cultures and lifestyles (including the alternative). Situated 832 km north of Sydney, Byron has a year-round subtropical climate, with summer temperatures dominated by a cooling onshore breeze. Such an idyllic climate explains its presently burgeoning population -currently around 7000 -and its attraction as a holiday destination.

Named by Captain Cook after a pillar of the English establishment, sailor Sir John Byron (who was also the grandfather of the famed poet), Byron Bay now is very international. Local restaurants embrace almost every national cuisine, and there are services with origins from all over the globe, like tarot readings, shiatsu massage and tai chi. Cape Byron, which is the easternmost point of Australia, is a great spot from which to watch migrating whales and frolicking dolphins.

Byron Bay has several good surf beaches, and the breaks are famous worldwide. Watego's Beach, with its white sands and crystal waters, has a break that is popular with bodysurfers and boogie boarders, is directly under the Cape Byron lighthouse. The crystal-clear waters are popular with snorkellers and divers. There are also some great drives in the Byron hinterland, with spectacular views to the coast.

Regular events at Byron include the famed East Coast Blues Festival in June, the Writers' Festival in early August and the Byron Food Fest in the first week October. The Byron Bay Classic (surfing) is held during the Easter weekend.