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

Don’t miss: Top 30 things to do in Byron Bay

Sunshine, sea breezes and sand-speckled locals: the Sutherland Shire is perfect for an idyllic Sydney summer.

The Sutherland Shire is one of Sydney’s most dynamic regions. Home to an eclectic mix of top-notch eateries and drinking holes, a flourishing arts scene, and striking land and seascapes, it’s a haven for foodies, culture seekers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

It’s also an ever-evolving destination with a constant wave of new places to eat and drink, and under-the-radar pockets to explore – many of which are dog-friendly.

If you’re venturing to this gorgeous part of the world this summer, here’s your guide to what’s new and worth discovering.

Savour the summer dining scene

Fred’s After Hours on the sutherland shire — Pop into Fred’s After Hours.

The Shire’s buzzing dining scene is one of its biggest drawcards, and many of the region’s culinary highlights can be found in the sun-soaked beachside hub of Cronulla. A bunch of newcomers have recently set up shop, making the area ripe for culinary adventure.

Homer Rogue Taverna is exactly as its name suggests: a cheeky take on classic Greek food. Expect meze and mains bursting with bold flavours and a wine list packed with standout Greek drops.

Freds Providore – a Cronulla favourite for casual cafe fare and excellent coffee – is now open late from Thursday to Sunday. Come sundown, it morphs into Fred’s After Hours, serving a refined European-inspired menu, wines, cocktails and a laid-back yet polished vibe.

Bobbys is a slick destination right on Cronulla Beach, where you can grab a plate of freshly-caught seafood and a summery cocktail while cooling off in the sea breeze.

And if you’re after a bit of everything, the sprawling and multifaceted Parc Pavilion is a melting pot of dining experiences. It blends a cafe, bistro, bar, Italian restaurant and a host of regular events, all tied together in a cool coastal setting.

Got a Saturday morning to spare? The Shire Farmers Market in Sutherland is a must-do ritual, letting you (and your four-legged friend) browse fresh produce, flowers and gourmet treats against a backdrop of live music and local chatter.

Dive into ocean pools

ocean pool on the sutherland shire — The ocean pools beckon.

Given its prime coastal positioning, the Shire teems with crystal-clear ocean pools and enclosed bathing spots. Silver Beach Tidal Baths offers a netted
swimming experience in Botany Bay. Tucked beside a small sandy beach, the tidal baths at Gunnamatta Park are calm and shallow – making them an ideal setting for less confident swimmers.

Just a hop and a skip away is Shelly Park Ocean Pool, a magical rock pool carved in the ocean. It’s well-suited to young kids and offers sweeping views towards the open sea.

Experience local arts and culture

Hazelhurst Arts Centre in Gymea is elegantly positioned within a lush garden landscape, serving as the Sutherland Shire’s premier destination for arts and culture. This summer, experience the Art on Paper Award 2025 – a celebration of innovation and creativity through the versatile medium of paper.

Set within the leafy surrounds of Hazelhurst Arts Centre, Hazel Kitchen & Bar has curated the ultimate picnic experience. Think abundant cheese platters, artisan charcuterie boards, fresh OJ and a thoughtfully chosen wine list, all available to take away and enjoy in the art-filled gardens just beyond the restaurant. Best of all, four-legged friends are welcome to join the fun.

Next, venture south to the artsy village of Bundeena for the monthly Bundeena and Maianbar Art Trail . This self-guided journey through local artists’ studios offers a glimpse into their work and creative spaces.

Relish the dog-friendly atmosphere

a dog on Greenhills Dog Beach sutherland shire — Let the dog off-leash at Greenhills Dog Beach.

The Sutherland Shire is a bona fide playground for pups and their humans. Find a string of dog-friendly beaches popular with locals, visitors and pups alike. Silver Beach in Kurnell is a peaceful pocket, allowing dogs off-leash without restriction. While Horderns Beach in Bundeena and Greenhills Beach in Cronulla are equally serene and provide off-leash access (be sure to check times and seasonal restrictions before you go).

If you’re planning to make a weekend of it, book yourself and your pooch into Quest Cronulla . With stylish and spacious pet-friendly accommodation, thoughtful amenities, and a prime location just steps from Cronulla Esplanade and a variety of dog-friendly cafes, it’s the perfect spot to rest after a full day of exploring.

Get into nature

Sunrise at Curracurrong Falls and Eagle Rock in the Royal National Park, Sydney. — Find natural beauty in Royal National Park. (Image: Destination NSW)

You’re spoiled for choice when it comes to outdoor escapes: imagine rugged bushwalks, breezy beachside tracks, meandering cycling trails and lookouts galore. The best part? Many of them are perfectly suited to dogs.

Take your canine to Cronulla Esplanade – the Shire’s version of the famed Bondi to Coogee Walk. This eight-kilometre route takes you past the region’s most picturesque beaches, offering panoramic vistas and an electric energy. It heaves with locals every morning and weekend, getting their steps in with a coffee in one hand and a dog leash in the other.

If you’re travelling without furry friends, stop by the Royal National Park. You’ll be engulfed in ancient bushland, craggy cliffs, towering rock formations, diverse wildlife and twisting tracks. The Jibbon Loop Track is a highlight, with spectacular views over the sea. Alternatively, the Karloo Track forms a loop that winds through untamed bush, freshwater pools and waterfalls. Re-lace your walking shoes or grab a bike to follow The Bundeena Drive to Marley Walk past freshwater pools and creeks, on to scenic beach views of Little Marley Beach.

Hit up the beautiful beaches

aerial of cronulla beach and esplanade — Enjoy postcard-perfect beaches. (Image: Destination NSW)

The stretch along Cronulla bursts with postcard-perfect beaches, each offering a different flavour. With rolling waves, regular patrol and a steady stream of beachgoers, Cronulla Beach and North Cronulla Beach are buzzy and built for all kinds of swimmers. Elouera Beach is a quieter option, attracting early-morning surfers hoping to catch the perfect wave.

If you prefer a side of dramatic scenery, visit Wanda or Greenhills – in addition to ocean panoramas, both are backed by towering golden dunes and wild scrub. Looking for something more subdued? Shelly Beach Ocean Pool is a relaxed – yet no less captivating – retreat.

Start planning your Sutherland Shire summer at visitsutherlandshire.com.au.

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