Byron Bay Travel Guide
Things to Do & How to Get There
Planning a visit to Byron Bay? This iconic coastal town on the northern New South Wales coast is famous for its laid-back lifestyle, stunning beaches and vibrant village atmosphere.
Whether you’re visiting for a day trip or a longer stay, this guide covers the best things to do in Byron Bay and the easiest ways to get there from the Gold Coast and Brisbane.
✔ Byron Bay Express service rated Excellent on Google
✔ Local Family-Owned Since 1999
✔ Comfortable Air Conditioned Shuttle Buses
Byron Bay, NSW
The Coastal Charm of Byron Bay
Byron Bay is one of Australia's most beloved coastal towns — where golden beaches, lush hinterland and a welcoming, creative community come together.
Cape Byron marks the easternmost point of mainland Australia, offering spectacular ocean views and unforgettable sunrises. Between June and November, humpback whales are often spotted breaching just offshore.
With boutique shopping, laid-back cafes and a vibrant cultural scene, Byron Bay is a destination that leaves a lasting impression.
Byron Bay, NSW
Easternmost point of Australia
Cape Byron is the first place on mainland Australia to see the sunrise. The walk to the lighthouse at dawn is genuinely unforgettable.
Best at dawnWorld-class wildlife encounters
Humpback whales migrate past Byron Bay from June to November. Dolphins are a near-daily sight year-round.
Whales Jun – NovSurf, markets and vibrant culture
From beginner surf lessons at Main Beach to the monthly artisan markets and a buzzing café and restaurant scene.
All year roundWalk everywhere
Byron Bay Express drops you centrally at Butler Street — beaches, cafés, shops and the lighthouse trail are all an easy walk away.
Drop-off: Butler StThings to Do in Byron Bay
Byron Bay offers something for every traveller. Here are some of the top experiences to enjoy during your visit.
Explore Byron Bay
How to spend your time in Byron Bay
Cape Byron Lighthouse
Visit Australia's easternmost point for panoramic ocean views and seasonal whale watching.
Pristine beaches
Swim at Main Beach or walk the coastal track to beautiful Wategos Beach.
Boutique shopping
Browse Byron's vibrant village centre filled with local fashion, markets and artisan stores.
Local dining
Enjoy fresh coastal cuisine at one of Byron Bay's many cafés and restaurants.
What’s On in Byron Bay & Local Gig Guide
What's On in Byron Bay
Local Gig Guide
Byron Bay's calendar is packed year-round. Here's what to look out for during your visit.
Markets
From the famous Byron Bay Farmers Market to the Flea Market, fresh produce and artisan finds are never far away.
Music & Nightlife
Live bands, DJ sets and late-night venues fill the town every week — from The Railway Friendly Bar to the Beach Hotel.
Festivals
Home to Splendour in the Grass, Byron Bay Bluesfest and a packed calendar of annual celebrations and events.
Arts & Culture
Galleries, open studios, film screenings and Byron's thriving creative scene make it a cultural hub for the region.
Food & Drinks
Pop-up dinners, farmers' feasts, Byron Bay Food Festival and a dining scene that punches well above its weight.
Wellness
Yoga retreats, sound healing, surf therapy and day spas — Byron Bay is Australia's wellness capital.
Family
Kids' workshops, beach days, wildlife encounters and community events make Byron a brilliant destination for families.
Outdoor Activities in Byron Bay
Get Outside in Byron Bay
Outdoor Activities
From world-class surf breaks to rainforest hikes — Byron Bay's great outdoors is waiting for you.
Surfing
From beginner-friendly beach breaks to the legendary Pass — Byron Bay is one of Australia's great surf destinations.
Kayaking & SUP
Paddle alongside dolphins, explore the Brunswick River or stand-up paddleboard through the calm waters of Cape Byron Marine Park.
Snorkelling & Diving
Julian Rocks is one of Australia's top dive sites — a protected marine sanctuary home to turtles, sharks, rays and thousands of reef fish.
Whale Watching
Byron Bay sits on Australia's east coast humpback migration route — one of the best whale watching locations in the country.
Hiking & Nature
Walk to Australia's most easterly point, explore Nightcap National Park or discover glowworms and waterfalls in the rainforest hinterland.
Skydiving & Adventure
Tandem skydive over the coastline, soar above the hinterland in a hot air balloon or take a scenic flight over Cape Byron.
Cycling
Byron Bay is one of Australia's most cycle-friendly towns — hire a bike and explore the coastline, hinterland villages and cane fields at your own pace.
Getting to Byron Bay
from the Gold Coast or brisbane
- Gold Coast Airport (OOL) transfers directly to Byron Bay
- Surfers Paradise to Byron Bay shuttle pickups for
- Convenient central Gold Coast transit locations
Shuttle Routes to and from Byron Bay
Byron Bay Express provides regular services connecting Byron Bay with key Gold Coast locations:
Byron Bay to Surfers Paradise shuttle
Byron Bay to Gold Coast Airport transfer
Gold Coast to Byron Bay shuttle
Surfers Paradise to Byron Bay bus
All services operate daily with comfortable, air-conditioned buses.
Byron Bay to Surfers Paradise
Byron Bay to Gold Coast
Gold Coast to Byron Bay
Byron Bay Day Trips from the Gold Coast
Short on time? Our popular Byron Bay day trip from the Gold Coast makes it easy to experience the best of Byron in one relaxed return journey.
Morning departure from Surfers Paradise
Several hours free time in Byron Bay
Comfortable return the same day
Byron Bay Bus Pickup & Drop-off Location
Our main Byron Bay stop is the Byron Bay Bus Interchange near Butler Street, centrally located within walking distance of town, beaches and accommodation.
This convenient location makes arrivals and departures simple for visitors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know before you book your shuttle.
Byron Bay ↔ Gold Coast Airport
How do I get from Byron Bay to Gold Coast Airport?
The easiest way is to take our express shuttle. We run direct services to the terminal with no unnecessary stops, offering a smooth and reliable trip.
How do I get from Gold Coast Airport to Byron Bay?
Take our express shuttle, which picks up right outside the terminal and goes direct to central Byron Bay. No transfers, no hassle, and daily departures.
How much is a ticket?
| Passenger | One-Way | Return |
|---|---|---|
| Adults | $49 | $90 |
| Children (4–14) | $39 | $70 |
| Infants (0–3) | Free | Free |
How long does the trip take?
Approximately 45–50 minutes, depending on traffic.
Where is the pick-up point at Gold Coast Airport?
At the northern end of the terminal, in the Coach Transit Centre — opposite end to baggage claim. Exit the terminal, turn left, and walk to the far end.
Gold Coast Airport ↔ Surfers Paradise
How do I get from Gold Coast Airport to Surfers Paradise?
Our affordable, daily shuttle picks up from the Coach Transit Centre and travels direct to Surfers Paradise.
How do I get from Surfers Paradise to Gold Coast Airport?
Our daily shuttle departs from Surfers Paradise and goes straight to the airport terminal.
How much is a ticket?
| Passenger | One-Way |
|---|---|
| All passengers | $25 |
How long does the trip take?
Approximately 45 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions.
Where is the pick-up point at Gold Coast Airport?
Coach Transit Centre at the northern end of the terminal.
Where is the pick-up point in Surfers Paradise?
Mantra Legends Surfers Paradise — the bus stop on Surfers Paradise Boulevard. View on Google Maps.
Can you pick me up from my apartment or hotel in Surfers Paradise?
No. We do not offer hotel or apartment pick-ups in Surfers Paradise. All passengers must board at the Mantra Legends Surfers Paradise stop on Surfers Paradise Boulevard, which is centrally located and easy to access on foot or by public transport.
Byron Bay ↔ Surfers Paradise
How do I get from Byron Bay to Surfers Paradise?
The easiest way is to take our direct shuttle. We run multiple services daily with central pick-up and drop-off points, no transfers, and no delays.
How do I get from Surfers Paradise to Byron Bay?
Our direct shuttle departs from the Mantra Legends Surfers Paradise and travels straight to Byron Bay without unnecessary stops.
How much is a ticket?
| Passenger | One-Way | Return |
|---|---|---|
| Adults | $49 | $90 |
| Children (4–14) | $39 | $70 |
| Infants (0–3) | Free | Free |
How long does the trip take?
| Route | Duration |
|---|---|
| Byron Bay → Surfers Paradise | ~90 mins |
| Surfers Paradise → Byron Bay | ~1 hr 35 mins |
Where is the pick-up point in Surfers Paradise?
Mantra Legends Surfers Paradise — the bus stop on Surfers Paradise Boulevard. View on Google Maps.
General Shuttle Information
How can I buy shuttle bus tickets?
You can purchase tickets online through our booking system or by calling us directly on 0418 364 364.
What time do your buses leave the airport?
We have 4 services every day:
How much does it cost?
| Ticket | Price |
|---|---|
| One-way | $49 |
| Return | $90 |
Where does the bus pick up from at the airport?
At the Gold Coast Airport, we pick up from the Transit / Coach Meeting Point at the northern end of the domestic terminal. Once you have collected your bags from baggage claim, if you are facing the exit doors, turn left and walk all the way to the end of the terminal. Walk out the exit doors and you will see where all the smaller shuttle buses pick up from (under white shade sails). Our bus will pull into an available parking bay at the specific pickup time.
Do you pick up and drop off anywhere on the Gold Coast Highway?
We can pick up at Broadbeach North Bus Stop, opposite the Gold Coast Convention Centre. Please email bookings@byronbayexpress.com.au to advise if you require this option.
Do all of your services go via the Gold Coast Airport?
Yes, all services pick up and drop off at the Gold Coast Airport. The pickup location is at the Transit Meeting Point at the northern end of the domestic terminal.
What does the bus look like?
Our buses are white, with 'Byron Bay Express' written on the side. They're very easy to identify, with a big logo on the front and side of the bus.
Can I get the return price if I am returning to a different location?
Yes you can.
What if my flight is delayed? Does my ticket transfer to the next service?
If you are delayed, you can use our online booking system to change your booking to the next bus (provided there are spare seats available). You can also call or SMS 0418 364 364 to let us know you are delayed and we will swap you to the next available shuttle. If you don't change your booking or fail to contact us to let us know that you are delayed prior to your bus departure time, unfortunately your ticket is no longer valid and you will need to purchase a new ticket. Byron Bay Express is not liable for any costs associated with airline flight delays.
What if I arrive at the airport earlier — can I get on an earlier bus?
Yes you can. You can use our online booking system to change your bus time. You can also speak to the driver, who can assist if there are spare seats available.
Can I pay the driver directly?
Yes, you can pay the driver directly, but they can only accept cash (Australian Dollars). You will need to book online if you wish to use a credit card.
Can I book my ticket when I arrive at the airport?
Yes you can. You can book your seat online right up to 5 minutes before the bus departure time. Otherwise, you can pay the driver directly (cash only).
Can I bring my dog on the bus?
Service dogs are allowed at all times. We generally allow domestic pets but they must be extremely well behaved and must not bother other passengers. We do not allow large dogs that take up too much space. The pet owner is fully responsible for their own pets at all times. It is at the driver's discretion whether your pet can board the bus. If, for any reason, the pet misbehaves, disturbs other passengers or makes a mess, the driver may ask you to disembark and your ticket will be cancelled with no refund. You will have to make your own arrangements at your own expense.
Do you have child capsules and booster seats?
Our services to Surfers Paradise, Gold Coast Airport and Byron Bay are operated with vehicles seating more than 12 passengers and it is not a legal requirement for child capsules or booster seats in these vehicles.
Do your vehicles have seat belts?
Yes, all of our shuttle buses are fitted with seat belts and seat belts must be used at all times during your journey.
Do you transport large items like surf boards and bikes?
Yes, we do transport surf boards (under 8ft) and bikes at no extra cost.
Do you offer private shuttle services?
Yes, we provide private bus charters for groups, events, and special occasions. Learn more here.
Still have a question? We're happy to help.
Call 0418 364 364Ready to Visit Byron Bay?
Secure your seat in minutes with our fast and easy online booking system.
Limited seats available on each departure.