The 16 Best Bars In Byron Bay - Australian Traveller

A bunch of drinking dens have joined Byron’s popular bar scene, offering holidaymakers plenty of options for sophisticated sips in this free-spirited town.

From intimate wine bars serving natural wine to beachside terraces and sunset cocktails in Mediterranean-inspired surrounds, you’re sure to find the right place to cheer up, slow down and chill out. Here are our favourite Byron Bay bars not to be missed.

1. Moonlight

An illuminated crescent moon is your beacon on Bay Lane to step inside and discover its hidden gem, Moonlight Hibachi Grill & Wine Bar . The moody and monochromatic interiors are a contrast to the usual sunny vibes found in Byron.

a classy bar interior at Moonlight, Byron Bay — Moonlight boasts a classy interior.

The intimate 45-seat restaurant and bar serves modern Japanese bar bites alongside biodynamic wines picked according to the Luna cycle, a stellar Saki selection and killer cocktails.

a table-top view of meals at Moonlight Hibachi & Wine Bar — Dine exquisite meals at Moonlight Hibachi & Wine Bar.

Address: Bay Lane, Byron Bay

2. Bar Heather

The Parisian-inspired Bar Heather is the brainchild of Luna Wine Store’s talented team. With over 700 natural wines from around the world, you can swirl and sniff your way through the list while snacking on a wine-friendly menu created by Chef Ollie Wong-Hee, with highlights including prawn toast, yellowfin tuna and fermented sausage.

Bar Heather in Byron Bay — The menu has been created by chef Ollie Wong-Hee. (Image: Jess Kearney)

While wine is most definitely the focus, you can also sip on cocktails and enjoy live jazz each Thursday. There’s a lot to love about Bar Heather and it’s a breath of fresh air in Byron.

Address: G09/139 Jonson Lane, Byron Bay

3. Pixie Food & Wine

At Pixie, you’re invited to enjoy a cocktail and snack at the bar, sip a spritz on the terrace or settle into the main dining room for a delicious meal. Offering a modern coastal twist on traditional Italian cuisine, it’s one of the best spots in Byron for a tipple or two.

a bar counter at Pixie Food & Wine — Sip a cold brew at Pixie Food & Wine.

The classic cocktail list has had an Italian summer-inspired Pixie shake up. Why not try the amalfi sunset, with mezcal, rhubi rhubarb liqueur, strega herbal liqueur and lime?

cocktails at Pixie Food & Wine , Byron Bay — Shake up Italian cocktails at Pixie.

Address: 139 Jonson Street, Byron Bay

4. Light Years

The original Byron Light Years you know and love is all grown up and relocated to the swanky Jonson Lane precinct alongside sister venue, Pixie. The Light Years glow up features designer interiors in blush pink hues, soft muted tones and an impressive tile and terrazzo bar.

the bar at Lightyears, Byron Bay — Light Years has an alluring interior.

It’s the perfect spot to sip fresh cocktails and dine out on Light Year’s Asian-inspired bar snacks, including kingfish ceviche, miso caramel eggplant, crispy pork belly and san choy bow.

a glass of cocktail at Lightyears, Byron Bay — Sip fruity cocktails at Light Years.

Address: 139 Jonson Street, Byron Bay

5. Raes Cellar Bar

Not just for the fortunate few, Raes Cellar Bar welcomes locals and visitors to their outdoor oasis with unrivalled views of Wategos Beach. Enjoy relaxed yet refined bar snacks like oysters with native finger lime, anise myrtle and lemon aspen, burrata and truffle fries, alongside a curated beverage list including the prettiest Paloma.

plenty of chairs under a huge umbrella at Raes Cellar Bar — Opt for casual beachside dining at Raes Cellar Bar.

Open seven days from midday until sunset, the bar allows for walk-ins only, seated on a first come first serve basis. So plan ahead to ensure you snag at least one Wategos sunset at Raes.

an al fresco drinking and dining spot at Raes Cellar Bar — Go out for an afternoon booze at the Raes Cellar Bar.

Address: 6-8 Marine Parade, Byron Bay

6. Verandah by Forest

All are welcome to breeze into Verandah by Forest at Crystalbrook Byron . Relax and unwind on the shaded verandah overlooking the sparkling swimming pool and rainforest beyond.

forest view at Verandah by Forest — Bask in serenity at Verandah by Forest.

With sustainability at its heart, sip on a Breakfast in Byron. Created using homemade Davidson plum marmalade, Crystalbrook Byron gin, Lillet Blanc, lemon, and syrup from the resort’s own honey. Or head to the Elixir Bar, which serves up drinks with bio-fermented, probiotic ingredients formulated for gut health, glowing skin and wellbeing.

a hand holding a glass of Paradiso cocktail at Verandah by the Forest — Sip a cocktail at Verandah by Forest.

Address: 77-97 Broken Head Road, Byron Bay

7. Treehouse

If you’re after a quintessentially Byron experience, head to the relaxed seaside locale of Belongil Beach, where Treehouse offers wood-fired pizza, live music and great vibes. A long-time favourite among locals and travellers, settle in under the palms with a cocktail in hand to enjoy the laidback locale.

Treehouse bar in Byron Bay — The tropical boho vibes are unmatched at Treehouse.

If you’re here to celebrate, be sure to book the bottomless. Available every day, you’ll be treated to a classic marg on arrival, a delicious 7-course shared menu and 1.5 hours of unlimited tap beer, wine and seltzer.

Cocktails at Treehouse bar in Byron Bay, NSW — Settle in for a summer cocktail after a day in the Byron sunshine.

Address: 25 Childe Street, Byron Bay

8. Balcony Bar & Oyster Co

Perennial favourite Balcony Bar holds court on the corner of Lawson & Jonson streets, where guests can sip cocktails and watch Byron life go by below. Munch on cauliflower popcorn, Ballina king prawns and chargrilled local market fish to your hearts content.

Balcony Bar in Byron Bay, NSW — Balcony Bar is the perfect spot for people watching.

Menu highlights include Oyster Shooters and signature cocktails like the Caribbean Garden, with Pampero Blanco, 43 Licor, basil, lemon, vanilla sugar and aquafaba.

Address: 7/3 Lawson Street, Byron Bay

9. Loft Byron Bay

Occupying an elevated terrace position just moments from famous Main Beach, sip summery cocktails in the casual coastal ambience of Loft Byron Bay and take advantage of the lofty heights for great people watching.

the dining interior at Loft Byron Bay — Soak up the coastal ambience at Loft Byron Bay. (Image: Jess Kearney)

Head chef Juan Hernandes brings a passion for fresh ingredients and seafood to the menu, with dishes like crispy twice-cooked pork ribs, Australian bay lobster and lemon myrtle basque cheesecake. Pop in on Thursday’s for two-for-one cocktails (with any set menu).

cocktail drinks on the counter at Loft Byron Bay — Pick from an array of cocktail selections. (Image: Jess Kearney)

Address: 4 Jonson Street, Byron Bay

10. Bang Bang Byron

Local favourite Bang Bang is a buzzing restaurant and bar offering a pan-Asian menu designed to share. With curious cocktails and beachside beats to match, you’re sure to have a banging time.

the exterior of Bang Bang Byron — Pop into Bang Bang Byron for dinner. (Image: Jess Kearney)

Highly recommend the nostalgic prawn toast in all its crispy glory, or opt for one of the insane curries made onsite. Wash it all down with a tipple or two from the ‘Bang Bang Bangers’ cocktail list.

a close-up shot of meal at Bang Bang Byron — Savour the delicious Pan-Asian menu at Bang Bang Byron.

Address: 4/1 Byron Street, Byron Bay

11. The Mez Club

Inspired by Moroccan architecture and the Greek Islands, The Mez Club is a breezy bar with a Mediterranean style and holiday vibe. The upstairs mezzanine, known as The Souk, has been designed to cater for groups, while downstairs locals and visitors mingle while grazing on tapas.

The Mez Club in Byron Bay, NSW — Soak in the Med vibes at The Mez Club.

Another great place for bottomless brunch, head here on Saturdays and Sundays for five signature dishes and two hours of unlimited seasonal spritz, sangria beer or wine.

Address: 4/85-87 Jonson Street, Byron Bay

12. Elements of Byron

While the Summer Salt bar at Elements of Byron is reserved for the exclusive use of adult in-house guests, Azure Bar & Grill welcomes locals and visitors alike for signature cocktails, local brews and fine wines.

meals at the adults-only pool bar in Elements of Byron — Chill out at the adults-only pool bar in Elements of Byron.

Bask in the warm, family friendly atmosphere on the terrace by the pool or experience a more formal evening in the dining room. As the temperature cools, sip Negroni’s fireside and toast to warm Byron days ahead.

a poolside bar and lounge at Elements of Byron — Lounge by the poolside bar at the Elements of Byron.

Address: 144 Bayshore Drive, Byron Bay

13. Stone & Wood

Visit Stone & Wood’s ‘spiritual home’ in Byron Bay, home to a 31-tank brewery, tasting room, canteen and leafy beer garden. While the majority of production takes place in nearby Murwillumbah, this is the place to be if you’re a Stone & Wood fan.

the bar exterior of Stone & Wood, Byron Bay — Swing by Stone & Wood for a drink.

Walk in anytime for beers and bites or book ahead for brewery tours, it’s the perfect place to slow down and soak it up. Not a beer lover? They’ve got you covered with seltzers, hard ginger beer and non-alcoholic options too.

Stone & Wood Brewing Company in Byron Bay — There are plenty of freshly brewed beers on tap to choose from. (Image: Destination NSW)

Address: 100 Centennial Circuit, Byron Bay

14. Lord Byron Distillery

Tucked away in the Byron industrial estate you’ll find Lord Byron Distillery , a fun tiki bar serving up fabulous cocktails from Tuesday to Saturday. We highly recommend you try anything for the cocktail list, as they’re usually served up in a cute and kitsch drinking vestibule.

the back bar at Lord Byron Distillery — Tuck yourself at the back bar in Lord Byron Distillery.

If you’re keen to learn more, sign up for a cocktail masterclass, where you’ll be guided through creating the perfect drink before enjoying the fruits of your labour. Bookings required.

a serving of piña colada Lord Byron Distillery — A perfect day for a piña colada at Lord Byron Distillery.

Address: 4 Banksia Drive, Byron Bay

15. Cape Byron Distillery

Home of Brookie’s Gin, B-Corp Certified Cape Byron Distillery is located just 15 minutes from Byron’s town centre. Try the new Brookie’s Rainforest Gin, a limited edition gin honouring the importance of healthy, standing rainforests and inspired by foraged botanicals from the distillery’s own rainforest.

friends enjoying a gin tasting experience at Cape Byron Distillery, McLeods Shoot, Byron Bay — Go out for a drink with your friends at Cape Byron Distillery. (Image: Sam Clarke/Destination NSW)

If you’d like to learn more about spirits, book a guided tasting flight, whiskey tour or the ultimate Brookie’s Rainforest & Gin Tasting Tour to experience a full appreciation of the farm. Visits to the cellar door are by appointment only.

two hands holding cocktail drinks at Cape Byron Distillery — Drink zesty cocktails at Cape Byron Distillery.

Address: 80 St Helena Road, McLeods Shoot

From serene natural beauty to vibrant nightlife, with plenty of arts and culture in between, the NSW Central Coast has been enjoying a serious glow up.

Just one hour from Sydney, the Central Coast has long been the perfect seaside getaway. And with its ECO Destination certification with a focus on sustainability, it’s a trip travellers can feel good about, too. Recently, new and exciting openings have turned the Central Coast into a place where incredible natural beauty is still on the table, but so is a vibrant and sophisticated arts, dining and nightlife scene.

Find out what’s new to discover on the Central Coast.

1. Gosford’s glow up

room at voco gosford — Book into voco and experience the best of Gosford.

Long-time Central Coast lovers will hardly recognise Gosford these days. While always boasting gorgeous water views, a range of revamps and new openings have turned it into a busy hub of arts and culture, with an increasingly diverse and vibrant nightlife.

Landmark lifestyle hotel voco Gosford is the perfect home base for a Central Coast getaway. At this IHG hotel overlooking sparkling Brisbane Water, guests can spend sunny days soaking in the rooftop pool (or just sipping a cocktail beside it). When it comes to meals, you can enjoy multiple venues serving up everything from modern Australian fare to fine-dining Japanese.

Venture out to lay eyes on the Central Coast’s first permanent Moving Image Gallery (MIG) . Opened this year inside the Gosford Regional Gallery , the immersive space is a showcase of screen-based and digital art. While at the gallery, wander around the Edogawa Commemorative Garden, a traditional Japanese strolling garden complete with teahouse, koi pond and an ornamental bridge.

Meanwhile, the revamped Gosford Regional Library has even more than books to discover. Now, it’s one of the best in the southern hemisphere – find exhibitions, historical archives and community initiatives for all ages at this perfect family-friendly escape.

2. Newcomers to the dining scene

table full of food at Amarilla restaurant terrigal — Treat yourself to sundowners and snacks at Amarilla.

The Central Coast has long been the perfect destination for gourmands, with everything from casual eats to fine dining elevating the local offerings. And three new destinations have been added to the map.

Amarilla at The Haven in Terrigal is the perfect seaside venue for sundowners, with blissed-out beats providing the soundtrack. Book in for golden hour and choose bites from a Spanish tapas menu made for sharing. Do as the locals do and wash it all down with sangria – the Sunday Sangria Sessions have become a local institution.

Also in Terrigal, Little Miss has brought a premium Mediterranean menu to the waterfront. Try the wagyu tartare with Greek caviar or butter-poached lobster and tomato bisque, paired with inventive cocktails and a handpicked selection of Lebanese wines.

Over in Ettalong, Bar Toto is perfect for pre- or post-dinner drinks. This award-winning cocktail bar is known for its creative concoctions, along with craft beer, wine and antipasti platters to snack on. The interior sets the mood, with dim lighting and wooden furnishings.

3. New Central Coast experiences

winemaker at Firescreek Botanical Winery — Book an experience at Firescreek Botanical Winery.

It’s entirely possible (and recommended) to spend a Central Coast getaway relaxing on one of its many peaceful and pristine beaches. But for those who crave more, there’s a long list of options to keep you busy.

Pop into the iconic Australian Reptile Park to see the new Weigel Venom Centre, a state-of-the-art facility that’s home to over 200 of the country’s most venomous snakes.

Get out on the water with Sail Central Coast , which offers 20 years of expertise in yacht charters. Book the Sunset Sail & Dine yacht charter for a private afternoon cruising the waterways of Bouddi National Park and Brisbane Water, stopping at Anchor on Hardys for a two-course meal with a cocktail.

For something completely different, Firescreek Botanical Winery is now offering an Aboriginal Storytelling and Wine Tasting Experience. Learn about local cultures, stories and traditions from an Aboriginal Elder, then enjoy a botanical-inspired wine tasting led by a local winemaking expert.

4. Central Coast accommodation

view from a cottage at Noonaweena — Sleep in the hinterland at Noonaweena.

There’s simply too much to experience on the Central Coast to only stay for one day. Turn your trip into a relaxing getaway by the beach.

Allawah , a retreat on the banks of the Hawkesbury River, is accessible only by boat. This secluded two-bedroom cottage is the perfect place to unwind, allowing you to spend lazy days fishing, kayaking, paddling or unwinding with a book on your own private jetty.

In the Kulnura hinterland, Noonaweena features a range of accommodation styles, from a luxe glamping bell tent to cottages and a treetop suite. It’s a leader in green travel, with 10 years of certification from Eco Tourism Australia. Relax in the onsite wellness centre or get active on various courts and in the gym facilities.

To stay by the ocean at Toowoon Bay, book into Kim’s Beachside Resort . This adults-only property offers a luxury escape nestled within a sub-tropical rainforest. Along with 36 private timber bungalows, indulge in massages or reiki treatments at the dedicated spa, or stop by the cocktail bar and à la carte restaurant.

5. Shopping on the Central Coast

Umina’s Centred Ceramics central coast — Try your hand at Umina’s Centred Ceramics’ pottery courses.

For those after unique trinkets, handmade treasures and beautiful homewares, the Central Coast is a haven.

Markets on the Central Coast have a special flavour. Wander the Umina Beach Markets at twilight, where you’ll find small businesses from the local areas, and the Norah Head Ocean View Markets , where you can soak up good food, live music and artisan finds by the beach after sunset. ‘Tis the season for the Christmas twilight edition of the Avoca Beachside Markets, celebrating the season with pop-up bars, tasty treats and plenty of unique gift options from local artists and producers.

Galleria Ettalong has also added to the Central Coast’s recent makers and creators renaissance, wrapping cinemas, a dining precinct and over 40 boutique shops into one area.

Sign up for a pottery course at Umina’s Centred Ceramics , or peruse the shop for a range of one-of-a-kind pottery made on the premises for a special souvenir.

For more eclectic arts and homewares, pop into Blue Bird Collective Co . This marketplace supports over 35 small, local and handmade businesses, artists and creatives. Take the time to check out fashion, jewellery and homewares that won’t be found anywhere else.

Start planning your coastal getaway at lovecentralcoast.com .

15 top bars to visit in Byron Bay