10 Best Activities For Kids In Byron Bay

Holidaying with the family is one of life’s great joys. Here’s how you can spend time away from the chaos of everyday life and reconnect in Byron Bay.

The popular coastal hotspot of Byron Bay in NSW’s Northern Rivers region is one of the most beautiful places in Australia, and there’s a reason that kids love it, too. If you’re planning a holiday to Byron with the family, or find yourself in town with an empty itinerary, we’ve got you covered with nine of the best activities to keep the whole family happy.

1. Take a trip to The Farm

Part working farm, part eatery – The Farm provides an enchanting and playful insight into the rural side of Byron Bay. Just a 10-minute drive from the centre of town, little ones can spend the day running, playing and getting up close to lots of adorable farm animals. Fuel up by grabbing lunch at Three Blue Ducks.

During school holidays, there are kids activities designed to inspire and educate. Each one is filled with hands-on, creative and mindful activities to encourage an appreciation of nature, animals and the community. Watch your children learn about ethical farming practices, as well as how food is grown, composting, animal care and more. There are adult workshops on offer, too!

The Farm in Byron Bay, NSW — Meet the friendly (and cute) locals at The Farm. (Image: Destination NSW)

Address: 11 Ewingsdale Road, Ewingsdale NSW

2. Wander around Crystal Castle

Take the winding roads into one of the cutest Byron hinterland towns and you’ll be rewarded with an enchanted sanctuary housing two of the tallest crystals in Australia. At Crystal Castle , take a magical stroll around the labyrinth-like Shambhala Gardens, learning about the Naren King who initially envisioned Crystalight back in 1986.

The crown jewel of Crystal Castle is the Enchanted Cave, formed over 120 million years ago in northern Uruguay and brought here by Naren. It’s approximately 5.5 metres tall, made when a giant bubble formed inside a molten lava flow. Kids and adults alike will love spending time looking at the millions of amethyst crystals that make up this amazing place.

Crystal Castle in Byron Bay, NSW — Wander the peaceful Shambhala Gardens at Crystal Castle. (Image: Destination NSW)

Address: 81 Monet Drive, Montecollum NSW

3. Hit the local markets

There really is no better way to discover the true essence of a place than by visiting the community markets. The Byron Community Market , held on the main beach foreshore, take place on the first Sunday of each month and is filled with handmade wares, food, art and trinkets.

There are plenty of other cool markets in and around Byron Bay, too. From the Murwillumbah Farmers’ Market on Wednesday to the Bangalow Flea Markets on every 2nd and 5th Saturday of the month, there’s something for all tastes. It’s the perfect opportunity to meet the locals and buy a special Byron-made souvenir to take home.

Byron Bay Markets in Byron Bay, NSW — Kids will love hunting for treasures at the markets. (Image: Destination NSW)

4. Visit the Byron Bay Wildlife Sanctuary

Previously Macadamia Castle, the Byron Bay Wildlife Sanctuary aims at creating awareness around the importance of respecting the natural world and Australia’s native animals. The park is open seven days a week and also hosts comprehensive kids’ day programs during the school holidays.

The whole family will enjoy a day spent here, with the daily activity schedule including keeper talks, wildlife presentations and interactive animal experiences. There’s also an onsite cafe and retail store, with a focus on locally produced and sustainable gifts.

The Byron Bay Wildlife Sanctuary in Byron Bay, NSW — The Byron Bay Wildlife Sanctuary is a great day out. (Image: Destination NSW)

Address: 419 Hinterland Way, Knockrow NSW

5. Learn how to surf

The natural landscape of Byron is a playground in itself – particularly for those who can make the most of it. Catching waves at one of the many popular beaches is a rite of passage, so it’s good to start them young. Soul Surf School is a Byron institute and the perfect place to dip your toe in as a beginner. There are board rentals for all levels, with lessons starting for those as young as seven.

If you’re child is five or above, you can also book them in for a private lesson with a professional. There are also great group sessions on offer too, so the whole family can get involved. There are plenty of other surf schools too, including Blackdog Surfing, Mojosurf and Kool Katz Surf School.

Soul Surf School at Main Beach in Byron Bay, NSW — Byron is the perfect place to learn how to catch waves. (Image: Destination NSW)

Address: 4/14 Bay Street, Byron Bay NSW

6. Ride horses in the hinterland

If you’d rather stay dry, head to Zephyr Horses for an afternoon or horse-riding. The coastal horse ranch offers an array of options, including specialised kids rides. Children have to be above the age of 10 to join a regular group ride, however the Mini Zephyrs Club caters to those under 10.

If you’re riding with kids, choose between the 1.5-hour Forest Trail, the two-hour Forest to Beach track or the two-hour Sunrise or Sunset Forest to Beach ride. Then head back to the ranch for a cuddle with your new best friend.

Zephyr Horses in Byron Bay, NSW — Hit the track with Zephyr Horses. (Image: Destination NSW)

Address: 145 Bayshore Drive, Byron Bay NSW

7. Have a day out on the water

One of the many beauties of Byron is that so many kid-friendly activities are freely accessed via the great outdoors. Families can see Byron from a different perspective with Wild Byron Sea Safaris, which offer snorkelling and whale watching trips. Be sure to keep your eyes peeled for sea turtles, colourful fish and dolphins, too. The Byron Bay Dive Centre also caters for all levels of snorkelling experience.

If your little ones are a bit too young to take out on the boat, hit up one of Byron’s many stunning beaches for a day in the sun. Wategos Beach is known for being calm; in fact, it’s one of the best swimming spots in Byron. Other ways to get out on the water include kayaking, SUPing, eco tours and whale watching.

Kids swimming at Tallows Beach in Byron Bay, NSW — Byron is home to some of Australia’s best beaches. (Image: Destination NSW)

8. Frolic at a festival

Byron Bay is a festival hot spot and many of them accommodate families by dedicating special areas or days to kids. No matter what time of year you visit, there’s likely to be something fun on the calendar for you.

There’s Bluesfest over Easter, which is an all-ages music event with an exceptionally wholesome environment. July’s Splendour in the Grass is Australia’s biggest music festival, with Little Splendour held alongside the entire three-day event. The Byron Bay Writers Festival has a kids’ day in August, as well as the Sample Food Festival in September.

Bluesfest in Byron Bay, NSW — The whole family can enjoy Byron’s festivals. (Image: Bluesfest Byron Bay)

9. Ride the world’s first solar-powered train

Only in Byron would you find something so retro yet sustainably powered. The Byron Bay Train is the world’s first solar-powered train; a restored 1949 carriage fitted with contemporary green technology. The train runs along a three-kilometre coastal track, linking the town centre with North Beach.

Kids will love learning onboard the two-carriage train, which takes around 10 minutes one-way or 25 minutes return. A scenic bounty on this piece of history costs just $5 each-way for adults and $3 for kids aged between six and 13. Any younger and you can travel for free! The train runs daily, with specific times listed on the website.

Byron Bay Train in Byron Bay, NSW — Kids will love a scenic ride on the solar-powered train. (Image: Getty/Kiara Bloom)

Address: Shirley Street Level Crossing

10. Join the circus

If you’ve ever dreamed of running away and joining the circus, say hello to (pretty much) the next best thing. Seven days a week, rain hail or shine, Circus Arts Byron showcases the best indoor playground paradise for toddlers, teens, adults and everyone in between.

Explore all the circus-themed activities you can think of, from an indoor climbing wall, Olympic-sized trampoline, flying trapeze and tumble track. On school holidays, Circus Arts offers programs tailored to certain age groups, all available for kids as young as one. Once they’re all worn out, simply head to the onsite cafe to refuel.

Address: 7 Centennial Circuit, Byron Bay NSW

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Make this dazzling stretch of beaches and natural wonders your home base for a grand adventure

Whether you’re setting out solo, bringing a mate, or packing in the whole family, no road trip along Australia’s East Coast is complete without at least a few days spent exploring the Coffs Coast. A stunning stretch of NSW coastline nestled between ancient high-elevation rainforests and magnificent, undiscovered beaches, Coffs offers amazing biodiversity, stunning natural beauty, and heaps of local charm, without the crowds. Pull up in Coffs Harbour , your perfect home base for these unforgettable day-trips.

1. Southern Beaches

The Coffs region boasts 30 of Australia’s most beautiful, unspoiled beaches, directly abutting a dramatic tableau of mountains and rainforests. Drive South of Coffs Harbour to find up-and-coming surf destinations where it’s still possible to catch an empty wave. First up is the picturesque Sawtell village . Wander the famous fig-tree-lined main street packed with laid-back places to eat and drink. Enjoy panoramic views and seasonal whale sightings at Bonville Headland on the Southern end of the beach.

Nearby Bongil Bongil National Park boasts seven kilometres of empty beach, along with hiking and cycling trails through beachfront rainforests – keep an eye out for koalas living in the trees. Boambee Beach and Boambee Creek Reserve are great for families, with shallow waters perfect for kayaking and SUPing, plus an off-leash dog beach.

family eating lunch in sawtell — Experience small-town charm in Sawtell.

2. Orara Valley Tourist Trail

The Orara Valley Tourist Trail has it all: hinterland bushwalks, birdwatching, horse riding, pristine swimming holes and rolling green pastures dotted with dairy farms and historic villages. And it’s only 15 minutes west of Coffs Harbour.

Sample produce at a roadside stall, stop into Coramba Hotel for a quintessential country pub lunch, or try the Idle in Cafe in Nana Glen for coffee and scones. Then spend the afternoon kayaking the Orara River or mountain biking on Mt Coramba. If you’re feeling adventurous, follow the 4WD touring route along the Orara Escarpment in Bindarri National Park , a rugged landscape with dazzling views that winds through untouched eucalypt rainforests and waterfalls.

A family sitting by the Orara Valley Tourist Trail. — Explore the green heart of Coffs.

3. Dorrigo National Park

Enjoy a classic day trip from Coffs to forest bathe in some of the oldest subtropical rainforests in the world at Dorrigo National Park, part of the World Heritage-listed Gondwana Rainforests. These million-year-old ecosystems promise rare bird sightings, towering strangler figs, and epic walking tracks and picnic spots. Try the 6.6 km Wonga Walk to experience dreamy Crystal Shower Falls (where you can walk behind the falls) and the Skywalk Lookout, which offers spectacular views of the valley and coast. Then stop in Dorrigo town for a homey lunch. It’s worth noting that a section of the road between Ulong and Dorrigo – which dates to the 1880s – is unsealed, adding to the area’s end-of-the-earth allure but making travel difficult in adverse weather conditions. Alternatively, head to Dorrigo via the delightful township of Bellingen .

Three people standing at the SkyWalk lookout. — Wander the Skywalk.

4. Northern Beaches

For another tranquil expanse of sun, sand and surf breaks, head north to Woolgoolga (Tourism Australia’s Best Mainland Beach for 2025. Taste the coffee and local-produce breakfast at one of several cafes, then spot whales during their migration season along the Woolgoolga Whale Trail to the headland. Emerald Beach offers clear blue waters and another headland walk, perfect for taking in views of South Solitary Island, a dramatically rocky-cliffed island with a historic lighthouse. Red Rock, some 40km north of Coffs and named for its striking coastal rock formations, boasts a gorgeous estuary reserve that’s perfect for languorous days spent picnicking, swimming, fishing, and connecting with the relaxed local pace.

Freshly caught seafood by the beach, with sparkling ocean views. — Enjoy fresh seafood overlooking Woolgoolga Beach.

5. Jetty precinct

You could easily spend a whole day exploring the Jetty precinct – from its foreshores to the marina to Muttonbird Island. Start with fresh fish and chips from local institution Coffs Harbour Fisherman’s Co-op , before browsing the popular Harbourside Markets held every Sunday on the foreshores.

Take a scenic walk along the breakwall to Muttonbird Island , a cultural and ecological treasure with panoramic views and rich Gumbaynggirr heritage. The Giidany Miirlarl Education Space shares the island’s ancient stories, or join a guided moonlight tour to see the seasonal return of the muttonbirds.

Back at the Jetty Strip, find a buzzing mix of cafes, bars and restaurants with cuisines from around the world, open from morning until late. Don’t miss The Jetty Pavilion , a favourite for its unique menu blending modern Australian cuisine with vibrant world flavours.

walk to muttonbird island from coffs harbour — Walk the path where land meets sea and sky.

6. Grafton

Head inland from mid-October to early November to catch Grafton’s jacaranda season, when the town’s streets and parks are covered in purple. Even better, time your trip between 24 October and 2 November to attend the famous Jacaranda Festival, with special food items, performances and more. At any time of year, follow the self-guided Grafton Heritage Trail to discover the town’s historic buildings, landmarks and stories. Or get the blood pumping with a trip along the longest mapped white-water trail in Australia – the Clarence Canoe and Kayak Trail. Book a tour with Exodus Adventures .

woman walking through jacaranda trees in grafton — Time your Grafton trip to see the jacarandas in full bloom. (Image: @myclarencevalley)

7. Nambucca

Just south of Coffs Harbour sits Nambucca, the ideal town for a relaxed, coastal day trip. Hire a canoe, kayak or boat to explore over 80 kilometres of waterways stretching from the hinterland to the ocean. For those who prefer to stay on dry land (or double up their adventure for the day), stretch your legs along the V-Wall – a scenic coastal walk along the Nambucca River – dotted with boulders painted by the community, sharing messages, art and local stories. Stop along the way to buy Sydney rock oysters direct from local farmers, or try your own hand at fishing. Before heading back to Coffs, refuel on fresh seafood and wood-fired pizzas at Matilda’s in Nambucca .

a boat zooming through Nambucca Heads — Explore Nambucca’s waterways. (Image: Seen Australia)

Visit coffscoast.com and download the Coffs Coast Explorer App for more daytrips and trails.

10 of the best activities for families and kids in Byron Bay