Byron Bay, renowned for its laid-back vibe, stunning beaches, and vibrant arts scene, is always evolving with new and exciting places to eat, stay, and relax.
Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway with friends, a romantic trip for two, or a longer stay Eat-Prey-Love-style, you’ll want to explore the freshest spots in town to make all your Instagram friends jealous. From mouthwatering eateries to luxurious stays and serene retreats, there’s literally something for everyone, and more!
However, if you’re feeling a little overwhelmed with the options (we get it; there’s a lot!) Here are just a few new places of note that you might want to add to your itinerary.
Where to eat in Byron Bay

Byron Bay Oyster Bar
This gorgeous restaurant only opened in November 2024 and is already a firm favourite among the town’s dining offerings. Inspired by lively oyster bar experiences found in places like New England and New York, it’s Byron’s first and only destination for epicurean delights straight from the sea. Situated inside the funky and very centrally located Hotel Marvel, you can of course take your pick of a full menu too, as well as the freshest oysters plucked straight out of their huge, purified land-based oyster tank.

Kouzina
If the seaside vibes of Raes aren’t to your taste, try out this delicious and busy Greek paradise in Byron’s Arts & Industry Estate. A three-course banquet here is also only $60 and even has loads of veggie dish options, which would suit a larger group with dietaries. Here, it’s all about community and home-style feasts that change seasonally, so expect big, yummy Greek salads, calamari skewers, and lots more. Oh, and it’s BYO! Round up the crew.
Where to stay in Byron Bay

Raes Guesthouses
Raes has had three whole decades at the top for being Byron’s most aspirational stay, and now they have expanded. Their iconic Wategos property is limited in space, so they’ve taken over a neighbouring property with ten gorgeously decorated suites, appropriately named Raes on Wategos 2.0. The designer behind the front doors of Raes Guesthouses is Tamsin Johnson, who also added her eclectic flair for Raes’ 2016 redesign.
Set within tropical landscaped gardens just 100 metres from the original Raes site, there are also two large lap pools, plus two other pools featuring a stunning waterfall, as well as still being just a few steps away from the surf if that’s more your vibe.

Basq Hotel
For those looking for a quiet holiday, boutique accommodation like this one is worth looking into, especially for its calming oasis vibes just outside of the bustle of Byron’s township. There are 32 rooms, a reception bar area that connects to a large outdoor deck and communal swimming pool, as well as a library, landscaped greenery and a rooftop where you can hang out or partake in guided meditation or yoga sessions, or if you’re feeling extra energetic, book a personal training session.

Sun Ranch
This one has been around for a year now and has quickly become one of the most popular accommodation spots for visitors thanks to its boutique vibe inspired by Californian ranches from the ‘70s with a splash of Spanish thrown in. There are 17 eclectic rooms set on 22 hectares in the hinterlands, only a few minutes’ drive from the village of Bungalow and approximately 15 minutes from Byron town.
Where to relax in Byron Bay

The Byron Bay Bathhouse
A holistic approach to a wellness retreat sounds very Byron, doesn’t it? Well, that’s what this newly opened destination promises with the inclusion of massages, facials, hydrotherapy, and of course, lots of bathing. If it’s your inner peace you’re wanting to reconnect with, don’t miss out on the signature hot stone massage or the sound healing sessions; trust us.

Soma: Couples Retreat
How about an idyllic experience to deepen your connection to your significant other? If you’re in a couple’s lull, this romantic retreat is worth a look at to not only help you rediscover their true potential but also a chance to get away from everyday stress and monotony through Kundalini yoga, meditation, breathwork, and delicious meals (organic, of course). For the more adventurous, there’s also surfing, but above everything, reconnection and intimacy are the highest focus here. Valentine’s Day is just around the corner, guys.

Aestheticá
If the ultra-chic and curvy interior doesn’t sell you on this venue alone, then their amazing beauty treatments will. Aethetica is now Byron Bay’s ultimate beauty hotspot nestled in the stylish Habitat Precinct, and renowned for their offering of top-tier cosmetic injectables, glow-boosting facials, and cutting-edge skin treatments. Oh, and by the way, they’ve just opened a brand new location in Bali!
So pack your bags and let Byron Bay woo you with all its magic. Oh, and if you spot a star while you’re there—just remember to play it cool!