The Best Day Trip from Gold Coast: Your Byron Bay Road Trip Guide

Byron Bay is one of the most popular spots along the entire Australian east coast. Renowned for decades as one of the happiest and hippiest nooks of the country, thanks to it also being home to some fantastic surfing spots, it boasts several extremely picturesque beaches and a relaxed yet effervescent vibe. The laidback lifestyle, myriad of activities and utterly stunning setting make it a mecca for local and international visitors all year long.

Byron is only an hour’s drive away from the Gold Coast and is, by far, the most popular day-trip destination of all. Organise a hire car pick up from the Gold Coast airport and you could have the enviable chance to spend a day surfing, swimming, snorkelling, shopping and people watching in one of the most revered beaches in Australia.

How do I get to Byron Bay from the Gold Coast?

Byron is just a few kilometres off the Pacific Highway, about a 40 minute drive south of the Gold Coast airport. Follow the signs and turn left onto Ewingsdale Road, which will take you straight into the centre of town. The drive itself is very enjoyable as it winds its way through sugar cane plantations and luscious forests of the Tweed Valley. Parking in Byron is plentiful, but we suggest you find a parking station for the day for security and convenience.

When is the best time to go to Byron Bay? 

Chasing whales, waves or fewer crowds? Byron Bay is a year-round destination, but the experience can vary depending on when you go. Here’s a breakdown of what each season offers: 

Spring (September – November) 

Best for: Hiking, warm weather and fewer crowds 

Spring ushers in a softer, slower Byron. Sunshine lingers, the sea sparkles and the headlands offer front-row seats to the humpback migration. It’s a sublime time to reconnect with nature and recharge by the ocean. After all, spring is the season of life. 

• Temperatures range from 14°C to 25°C. 
• Ideal for coastal hikes and other tracks, like the Cape Byron Walking Track, the Three Sisters Walking Track or rainforest hiking to Minyon Falls. 
• Spot whales from headlands or join a boat tour. 
• Enjoy outdoor activities like surfing, beach hopping and dining alfresco without peak-season crowds. 

Summer (December – February) 

Best for: Swimming, beach days and surf lessons

It’s no secret that summer is Byron’s high season, when the rhythm of surf, sunshine and slow afternoons sets the tone for long, languid days by the sea. 

• Highs of 27–29°C, with ocean temps around 25°C
• Perfect for surfing, snorkelling and sunset cruises. 
• Expect occasional tropical showers, usually in the late afternoon. 
• Great time to learn surfing skills with top-rated surf schools in Byron

Autumn (March – May)

Best for: Fewer tourists, warm water and cultural festivals

As the summer flock departs the Northern Beaches, Byron feels more laid-back than ever. The sun still shines, the water stays warm and the beaches are blissfully quiet, making it a great time to visit. 

• Daytime temps range from 22°C to 27°C
• Warm sea temps linger, ideal for swimming and kayaking
• Fewer crowds, making it great for a romantic escape or quiet getaway
• Events to look out for: Byron Bay Bluesfest, Bangalow Film Festival, Byron Comedy Festival, Bangalow Billy Cart Derby

Winter (June – August)

Best for: Whale watching, sunshine without crowds and surf

Winter brings Byron Bay a slower pace and the kind of blue-sky days that locals treasure. It’s also the best time to see migrating humpbacks, where up to 40,000 gentle giants pass close to shore, breaching and tail-slapping as they go. 

• Daytime highs around 20°C, cooler nights (as low as 12°C)
• Clear skies that are perfect for hikes, cycling and sunset watching
• Prime season for spotting humpback whales and even swimming with them in August/September 
• Events to look out for: Byron Writers Festival, Splendour in the Grass, Byron Bay Surf Festival, Matsuri Byron Bay

Time to Hit the Road! Here’s an ideal itinerary from the Gold Coast: 

Setting Off: Depart Gold Coast

Your road trip begins on the sparkling shores of the Gold Coast, a destination known for its energetic charm and golden sands. Before heading south, make sure your vehicle is road-trip ready. Check fluids, tyre pressure and pack a well-stocked emergency kit, just in case. Oh – and don’t forget to put on a killer playlist that gets you rolling down the coast.  

Stop 1: Arrive at Byron Bay – breakfast at Folk Cafe

It would be remiss not to start with Folk. This serene garden café is just about as Byron as it gets. Think house-made spiced chai, veggie beds bursting with greens and a relaxed setting just outside the town (making parking super easy!). 

You don’t need to be a vegetarian to fall hard for Folk’s feel-good fare. Order brunch classics like avo smash on organic sourdough bread (but of course!) or a favourite of post-surf crows, the Folk Burrito, with rice, quinoa, black beans, sauerkraut and pumpkin. Fuel up with a coffee brewed from Dukes beans and you’ll be ready for anything. 

Stop 2: Lighthouse walk & whale spotting

You’ll find Byron’s most iconic site atop a jutting cliff on Cape Byron, the most eastern point in Australia. This is the best spot from where you can watch humpback whales migrating in season (September and October) and is one of the most breathtaking viewpoints in the entire northern NSW coastline. The walk from town is spectacular as it meanders through forests and gifts simply stunning coastal views at every turn. The walk is invigorating but can be a little tough going in some uphill parts.

Stop 3: Swim or surf at Main Beach

Warm waters and wicked surf breaks are what have made Byron Bay a household name for surfers the world over. Byron Main, the beach directly in front of the town centre, is the most popular beach of all, followed closely by Watego and Tallow. Surfboards can be rented right on the beach and lessons booked through one of the many operators along the coastal strip. 

Stop 4: Late lunch at Three Blue Ducks 

For a lunch of the leisurely kind, it’s hard to beat Three Blue Ducks at The Farm. Just outside town, you’ll find paddock-to-plate sophistication served in a timber mega shed that opens onto rolling farmland. Tuck into seasonal goodness, graze on local cheese or dig into a nourishing plate of wood-roasted veggies and free-range meats – it’s a real feast for the soul. 

Stop 5: Shop local boutiques or visit Stone & Wood Brewery

Jonson and Lawson streets are Byron’s main shopping strips, brimming with unique shops and boutiques specialising in trendy swimwear, housewares, clothing and accessories.

Bit thirsty? Spend a few hours visiting the Stone and Wood Brewery and take advantage of a free tour, complimentary beer tasting and gain an interesting insight into the brewing process. What more could you ask for on a hot summer afternoon in Byron?! You’ll find Stone and Wood on Boronia Place, just off Sunrise Boulevard.

Stop 6: Sundowner drinks at Beach Hotel

Whatever you do, don’t miss the chance to enjoy your last meal and drink in Byron at the town’s iconic seaside pub. Always lively and enticing, the Beach Hotel epitomises all that is so enticingly Aussie. Great food, top beers and a vibrant atmosphere makes this the absolute top-notch spot to rest and relax after a full day out and about.

Head Back: Returning to Gold Coast

Your time in Byron may be over, but the memories of ocean dips and slow mornings will linger as you cruise back to the Gold Coast. The scenic drive offers one last chance to savour the Northern Rivers’ beauty.

What are some of the best experiences in Byron Bay? 

1. Scuba diving and snorkelling 

Byron is known for its underwater treasures, all of which are superbly easy to admire on a scuba diving or snorkelling excursion. Head to the Byron Bay Dive Centre on Marvell st. and book a visit to Julian Rocks, a splendid and easy-to-access site just a few minutes off the Byron shores. There are over 400 different species of marine life living and thriving in these waters, including turtles, manta rays and grey nurse sharks.

2. Hot air ballooning 

Arguably, the most exhilarating and unforgettable activity you could ever hope to do whilst visiting Byron Bay. Admiring the magnificent coastal and hinterland views, while soaring high in the sky aboard a gliding balloon, is the stuff of which dreams are made! Byron Bay Ballooning offers an absolutely dreamy one-hour sunrise flight which includes a champagne breakfast upon landing. Of course, this would require either an overnight stay in town or an especially early start from the Gold Coast.

3. Visit the Byron Bay Golf Course 

Byron is home to a superb course, which also boasts a great restaurant and bar. Come for a game, a delectable meal or a delicious sundowner if you want to relax in delightful and serene surroundings.

4. Go for a horse ride 

If you want to experience Byron from a different perspective, then head to the Seahorse Riding Centre, where the helpful and professional staff will help you choose the course and horse that’s right for you. Short and long rides are available on different terrains; all of which will gift you the chance to discover some of the most pristine and awe-inspiring landscapes in and around Byron. Book the inspiring 7-mile beach ride and have the chance to swim in the sea with your horse at the end of your ride…while the staff prepares a mouth-watering BBQ on the beach for dinner!

What are some family-friendly activities in Byron Bay? 

1. Take the kids to Circus Arts

If you’re travelling with children, you will certainly find Byron to be an ideal day trip destination. Aside from the numerous playgrounds and activities on offer for kids of all ages, you’ll also discover Circus Arts, a truly amazing place where your kids can unleash their inner acrobats and have fun whilst getting plenty of energy-zapping exercise. Between the indoor climbing wall, high-flying trapeze, juggling and hula hoop classes, you’ll find plenty here to keep the young ones entertained for hours on end.

2. Byron Bay Wildlife Sanctuary 

A long time ago (not really), a giant knight watched over Macadamia Castle. But today? The real stars are more furry, scaly and feathery than tin can-y. Now, the Byron Bay Wildlife Sanctuary, this cherished spot is focused on conservation, keeping favourites like the farmyard, Hot Nut Bar and famous pancakes alive for the next generation. Be sure to catch the Keeper talks and wildlife presentations like Free Flight Birds, or level up your visit with an unforgettable animal encounter.

What are Byron Bay’s best beaches? 

1. Main Beach – Best for first-timers, patrolled

All the beaches are also great for swimming, but only Main is patrolled by lifesavers all season long. 

2. Wategos Beach – Sheltered, great for families

Watego’s is particularly revered by families, due to it having the calmest waters of all. 

These pristine sands are a local favourite, where forest meets the sea, and dolphins often hang out. Rock pools and shaded picnic spots make it perfect for the whole motley crew, especially in summer when the beach is patrolled. 

3. Tallow Beach – Untouched beauty, fewer crowds

If you’re chasing serious surf, head south to Tallow Beach. This long, exposed stretch picks up swell others miss, making it a go-to for seasoned surfers. Off the sand, you’ll find fewer beach towels, more nature and a refreshing dose of Byron’s wilder side.

4. Belongil Beach – Clothing optional, quiet

Should you happen to favour nude bathing, then head to Belongil Beach…where you can let it all hang out!

5. The Pass – Advanced surfers’ paradise

Situated between Clarkes Beach and Wategos, The Pass is a legendary right-hand point break famed for its long, rolling waves that can carry riders for up to half a kilometre. When the ocean softens, it transforms into a welcoming spot for those just starting out.

Road Trip Tips: Gold Coast to Byron Bay 

Car rental tips

Opt for a sleek, comfortable ride, splurge on a luxury car or a spacious SUV, to make the coastal journey as stylish as it is scenic. Book early to secure the best deals! 

Must-stop viewpoints 

Don’t rush past the Tweed Valley Lookouts, where panoramic vistas unfold over lush rainforests and volcanic peaks. These hidden gems offer perfect photo ops and a moment of calm before you reach the buzz of Byron Bay.

Music playlist suggestions

Curate a soundtrack that matches that Byron Bay vibe: dreamy indie folk, sun-kissed surf rock and soulful acoustic tunes to elevate the drive. Think artists like Angus & Julia Stone, Bon Iver, Khrungbin, Hockey Dad and Julia Jacklin. 

Plan your ultimate road trip with Bargain Car Rentals 

From beachside brunches to forest detours, travel like a local with the ease and flexibility of Bargain Car Rentals. Start your Byron Bay escape at Gold Coast Airport, and view our full range of vehicles ready for the road.

Need more inspiration? Check out the Gold Coast Day Trip to North Stradbroke Island.