Sustainable Holiday in Byron Bay like a Local
When planning your Byron Bay holiday all the bohemian dreams start piling up. With a surge of new businesses opening and the classics still firmly planted in the local scene there are options for every taste and style here in Byron Bay. But if you want to live like a local in Byron Bay then here are the most sustainable ways to slow down, chill out and cheer up.
Since the Nimbin Aquarius Festival of 1973, Byron Bay has been a haven for hippies, emphasising alternative living and eco-friendly practices, such as the Byron Bay Markets, permaculture farms, sustainably designed surfboards and vegan/organic/locally sourced restaurants. In recent years Byron Bay has become the epicentre for sustainable innovation in Australia and is renowned globally for the businesses and products that call Byron home.
Here are our top picks to holiday in Byron Bay the more sustainable way.
Accommodation
Elements of Byron Bay, a beachfront resort, boasts sustainable design practices, preserving existing vegetation and planting native trees. Alternatively, the Byron Bay YHA focuses on conservation and sustainable practices, offering energy-efficient amenities and promoting eco-friendly transportation like bicycle rentals.
How to Get Around
Byron also takes pride in its Solar Train, a world-first solar-powered train operated by the Byron Bay Railroad Company. The train runs on energy from solar panels, with excess power fed into the grid to benefit the local community. Recognized for its sustainability efforts, the company received the 2018 Rail Sustainability award.
Where to eat + drink
The Byron food scene has exploded in the last little while and is becoming renowned as a foody hub. From fine dining to local hidden gems you will be blown away by choice here.
Some of our faves are:
Karkalla is the passion project of Mindy Woods, proud Bundjalung woman of the Widjabul Wia-bul clan and a MasterChef alum. The restaurant is known for its native-inspired dinners and showcases locally-sourced, seasonal produce, and of course, indigenous ingredients.
No Bones. You won't believe it's vegan! Their philosophy is deeply rooted in sustainability, highlighted by their commitment to using as much local, organic, and spray-free produce as possible. This principle shapes the menu, which is a celebration of local flavours and ingredients, complemented by a selection of Australian wines and beers.
And for something quick and delicious it's hard to go past the institution Orgasmic Falafel. Unforgettable and authentic falafel pita pockets that Oren and the crew have been serving up 7 days a week for the last 20+ years.
Where to shop
There is no shortage of shopping in Byron but if you look closely and slow down there are some local legends working hard at tackling fast fashion and sustainability problems.
Afends. Born in 2006 right here in Byron and founded by two mates. They are leading the way in the alternative fashion market world wide. Driven by environmental and social impacts, they continually strive to do what's best for the people and the planet; to design and deliver durable, eco-friendly and timeless apparel that will last a lifetime.
Second hand fashion is also highly regarded here in Byron with loads of amazing op shops and second hand stores like Mr Vintage and Froth The Label.
Being surrounded with such beautiful forests and natural wonders it's no wonder there are some amazing sustainable furniture builders here too. Leading the way is JD.Lee Furniture where they believe in using natural products and materials combined with traditional craftsmanship to create honest furniture for happy homes. The timber comes straight from the place it is felled, to the mill to be turned into planks and seasoned for use. It is hand selected and carefully crafted into strong, beautiful furniture.
What to surf
Varuna surfboards specialises in crafting high-performance, sustainable wooden surfboards grown in Indonesia, embodying a unique blend of sustainability and top-notch performance. With a mission guided by a planet-first mindset, Varuna's boards provide an epic ride both in and out of the water, reflecting a commitment to eco-conscious surfing. Make sure to swing by and check out the newly opened Demo Center and have a feel of these amazing boards.
Natural spaces to love
The marine park off Byron Bay's coast, influenced by the East Australian Current, houses diverse marine habitats and cultural sites significant to the Aboriginal communities, such as the Arakwal National Park.
To the south you'll find the spectacular beauty of Broken Head Nature Reserve. Experience Aboriginal culture, rainforest walks, whale watching, and fishing from pristine beaches. To the north is the untouched and unspoilt Tyagarah Nature Reserve. Perfect spot for fishing, beach strolls and even a sectioned nudist beach, if that's your thing.
So whether you decide on a quick visit or a long stay, there is plenty here to do without worrying about your impact. Embrace all that is offered, enjoy every moment of it all and remember to give more than you take. Think globally, Act locally. Come visit Byron Bay.
