10 Reasons Byron Bay Should Be Your Next Vacation

Because the fact that it's in Australia is just the cherry on top.

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Bryon Bay is a small beach town nestled in the rolling greens of New South Wales, Australia. Less than 500 miles north of Sydney, Byron is a hidden gem. With a population under 5,000, this city is popular with both domestic and international tourists alike. Not convinced yet? Just wait.

1. The Laid Back Environment

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Looking to relieve some stress? There's probably not a better place to do so. This funky, walkable, and mellow town has a perfect mixture of activity and relaxation. And this won't change. Locals are committed to keeping that small town feel in Byron.

2. The Rich History

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Aboriginal people flocked to the bay for thousands of years to swap stories, find marriage partners and trade goods. The European history of the bay dates back to 1770, when Captain James Cook found a safe anchorage and named Cape Byron after his navigator, Lord Byron. And this is just a small taste of the history that the bay has to offer.

3. Surf Lessons

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There's no shortage of surf instructors or surf schools in Byron Bay. You can learn how to surf by yourself, in a small group, or even in a large group. And it's a guarantee stand up for most or you get your money back. Surf's up.

4. The Nightlife

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There's also no shortage of things to do when the sun goes down. From music venues, to laid-back bars, to restaurants turned into dance clubs...you'll have no trouble finding something to do whether you're 19 or 64.

5. Surplus Of Beaches

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There are technically nine different beaches you can choose from when visiting Byron. Good luck making THAT decision.

6. Hot Air Balloon Rides

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During a hot air balloon ride in Byron Bay, you can experience some of the most breathtaking views of the city and its surrounding green hills rolling into Mt. Warning volcanic caldera. Not to mention, one of the pilots in Byron Bay was the first to fly a hot air balloon over Mt. Everest. Kind of a big deal.

7. Horse Back Rides On The Beach

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Ever dreamt of a horseback ride on a beach, through the shallow waves, wind in your hair, sun on your face? In Byron Bay this becomes a reality.

8. Kayaking In The Bay

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Just imagine this for a second; kayaking next to dolphins, whales, and turtles in ridiculously blue waters next to a pristine beach. That could be you. You can enjoy everything that Byron's view has to offer while listening to stories from locals.

9. Skydiving Above Bryon

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You can soar high above Byron Bay tandem style. Fixate your eyes on one of the beachfronts or rich greenery available in Byron. Is there really a better way to see any city?

10. The Amazing Lighthouse

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Byron Bay's lighthouse is the most eastern point of Australia...and it's beautiful. Take the trail to walk down among the rocks and take in the view. Maybe you'll even spot a whale.